Retired Fall River priest suspended from Ministry following abuse allegations
By Josh Faiola
Email: news@abc6.com
Twitter: @ABC6
FALL RIVER, MASS (WLNE) – The Diocese of Fall River announced the suspension of retired a priest, Father Herbert T. Nichols for alleged sexual abuse of a minor.
According to a statement from the diocese, the allegation appears to have occurred approximately 20 years ago, and the decision to suspend Nichols was made based on information learned from a review of the personnel files of diocesan priests.
Father Nichols denies the allegation, which is currently under investigation, the Diocese says.
The Fall River Diocese hired an independent consultant last year to complete an evaluation of its priestly personnel files, and Bishop Edgar M. da Cunha, S.D.V informed parishioners that a list of credibly accused clergy would follow.
According to the diocese, some priests were suspended in response to information gathered during the file evaluation pending further investigation, as required under its policies.
“The task of evaluating all of the files and the response needed on our part as a result of the findings have, regretfully taken more time than first thought”, said Bishop da Cunha. “It is crucial that we take the time and perform the diligence necessary to compile a list that is accurate and complete, and we continue to do so.”
As a retired priest, Father Nichols was not currently assigned to any parish, but according to the Diocese, did help with the celebration of Masses in various parishes since retirement, including the Maronite community within the Diocese.
Nichols’ suspension prohibits him from all ministry until the investigation is completed and a determination on the matter is made.
©WLNE-TV/ABC6 2020
