Fall River priest on leave due to sexual misconduct allegations

FALL RIVER, Mass. (WLNE) — The Roman Catholic Diocese of Fall River said that parishioners of St. Michael and St. Joseph Parishes were given letters that a priest is now on administrative leave.

The diocese said that Rev. Jay Mello was placed on leave after it received “concerning information alleging sexual misconduct by the priest,” and that an initial inquiry showed “sufficient evidence” for further investigation.

It was noted that there were no allegations of inappropriate conduct with minors.

The diocese said Mello became parochial administrator of St. Michael and St. Joseph Parishes in 2015 and was named pastor of the neighboring churches in 2016.

Mello is no longer residing at the parish rectory and has been “directed to refrain from exercising public priestly ministry.”

The diocese added that he has denied allegations of misconduct.

“This situation is distressing for all of us,” Bishop Edgar da Cunha said in his letter. “Please know that my prayers are with all the faithful people of St. Michael and St. Joseph Parishes during this challenging time.”

Anyone with concerns of misconduct within the diocese is asked to contact law enforcement or Carolyn Shipp, the Diocesan Director of Safe Environment and Victim Assistance, at 508-985-6508, by email at cshipp@dioc-fr.org, or on the church’s website.