Philadelphia Priest Abuse Update – Teacher and Priest Sentenced for Sex Abuse

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This case is one of the first of its kind. A monsignor who oversaw Philadelphia area priests is sitting in prison and will for at least another 2 years. Last year, Monsignor Lynn was convicted of one count of child endangerment.

The case continued with a jury trial earlier this year. Former Philadelphia area priest, Charles Engelhardt, and former teacher, Bernard Shero, were tried and found guilty of multiple charges in connection with allegations of sex abuse of a student over a decade ago. Last week, Philadelphia Judge Ellen Ceisler sentenced Shero and Engelhardt.

Father Charles Engelhardt was convicted of 7 counts, including Endangering the Welfare of Children, Indecent Assault, and Conspiracy (related to sexual abuse). He was sentenced to 6-12 years in prison.

Bernard Shero was convicted of 5 counts, including Rape of a Child and Involuntary Deviate Sexual Intercourse. Shero was sentenced to 8-16 years in prison.

At the sentencing hearing, both defendants continued to maintain their innocence. Appeals are expected.

The remaining defendant, Father James J. Brennan, will be re-tried after the same jury which found Monsignor Lynn guilty deadlocked on the two charges against him – Endangering the Welfare of Children and Attempted Rape. As of today, that trial is currently set for October 21, 2013.

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