Retired priest put on administrative leave by Bishop Fisher over allegations of misconduct

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BUFFALO, NY (WKBW) The Diocese of Buffalo announced Wednesday that a retired priest has been put on administrative leave following allegations of misconduct.

According to the diocese, he recently became aware of an action brought under the Child Victims Act by an individual who alleges abuse of his childhood by the Rev. James G. Kelly. Kelly, 83, is a retired priest from the Diocese of Buffalo, but still participates in parish ministry. A statement said the complaint was filed anonymously and that the diocese became aware of it during a search for publicly filed complaints.

The diocese issued a statement that said in part:

After learning of the complaint, the diocese notified the Erie County prosecutor’s office, contacted the complainant’s attorney, and confronted Bishop. Kelly, who has denied committing acts of abuse. The diocese also reported the matter to the independent review committee which will be responsible for appointing an independent investigator.

Because the complainant did not file a complaint with the Diocese’s Victim Assistance Coordinator, the diocese contacted the complainants’ lawyer to determine if the complainant is willing to cooperate with an investigation and provide full details. relevant to the claims.

According to the diocese, pending a response from the victim, another anonymous complaint was filed alleging abuse in the early 1980s by Kelly.

Due to the abuse allegations, Bishop Michael Fisher put Kelly on administrative leave. The diocese says a full investigation by an appointed independent investigator will take place and a final decision will be made by the independent review committee.

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