The Diocese of Arlington, Virginia, has placed a priest on administrative leave as an investigation into an allegation of sexual misconduct with minors continues.
According to a diocesan press release, the priest, Father Patrick Posey, denies the accusations of alleged misconduct, said to have occurred outside the diocese between 1992 and 1993. Father Posey is the rector at the Cathedral of St. Thomas More in Arlington.
The diocese said that it reported the allegation to law enforcement immediately after becoming aware of the claim. An investigation into the allegation is ongoing and no determination has yet been reached.
FOX 5 DC reported that Father Posey was ordained in 1991 and worked in the Dominican Republic for eight years beginning in 1995. Upon his return, he was the pastor of St. James Catholic Church in Falls Church for 13 years. According to the outlet, a parishioner of the church is shocked by the claims, calling Father Posey an amazing priest who never had issues at the parish.
The diocese stated that Father Posey has complied with the diocese’s requirement to undergo regular criminal background checks during his years of service.
According to FOX 5 DC, coalitions of clergy abuse survivors are applauding the individual who brought the claim against Father Posey, calling it a way of “holding this predatory priest to account.”
Angela Walker, executive director of Survivors Network of those Abused by Priests, said she anticipates other claimants may come forward with allegations against Father Posey.
Becky Ianni, support coordinator of the Virginia chapter of the Abuse Survivors Coalition, said that the diocese is still responsible for priests even if the alleged abuse occurred outside the diocese. She also noted that Virginia does not have a statute of limitations on child abuse, meaning that the authorities have full power to investigate the allegation.
The Diocese of Arlington did not respond to a request for comment by the time of publication.