Diocese of Fall River says pastor placed on leave admitted to ‘serious sexual misconduct’
by NBC 10 NEWS
(WJAR) — The Roman Catholic Diocese of Fall River announced on Thursday thatthe Rev. Jay Mello, who had been placed on leave after allegations of sexual misconduct, has admitted to the misconduct.
Mello was placed on leave this June due to the allegations.
In a letter to the community from Bishop Edgar da Cunha, he wrote that Mello recently admitted to “serious sexual misconduct.”
“While I would not normally provide this detailed of an update until the conclusion of the investigation, I am prompted to do so because there have been a number of false claims and rumors causing confusion based on the belief that Fr. Mello has been unfairly placed on leave,” da Cunha wrote. “I feel it is necessary to inform your parish and school communities of an important development in the investigation in that Fr. Mello recently admitted to serious sexual misconduct which began while counseling an adult parishioner.”
This announcement comes after St. Michael’s School family and community members said they will be holding a peaceful demonstration about Mello’s absence.
Stacey Liakos, a mother of three said her children have attended Saint Michael’s school for years. Her family a part of the diocese since the beginning of COVID.
Liakos is one of numerous parents, who spoke on behalf of Father Mello’s character, both at public vigils and in private communications with higher ups within the Diocese.
“It’s not the same at mass without him,” she said.
After the diocese’s statement, the organizers held the peaceful demonstration on Friday.
“The SMS community is gathering not in protest but in peaceful expression, unified in their care for their children and dedication to restoring trust. Many parents and parishioners feel that the delay in communication has had a profound impact, particularly on the children who formed close bonds with Father Jay,” a statement from the demonstration organizers said.
Parishioners held a prayer vigil for Mello this August in support of him.
The Diocese of Fall River said the investigation into Mello’s full misconduct will continue.