Allegations of sexual abuse of a minor by Chicago-area priests Father Matthew Foley and Father Henry Kricek confirmed by Archdiocese of Chicago

Alleged abuse happened at St. Agatha Parish 30 years ago, St. John Bosco Parish 40 years ago, church says

Two priests who worked at various churches in the Chicago area are currently being accused of sexually abusing a minor, according to the Archdiocese of Chicago.

Cardinal Blase J. Cupich revealed that Father Matthew Foley and Father Henry Kricek will be taking a step back from their ministerial duties while investigations are carried out into these allegations.

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The accusation against Foley involves sexual abuse of a minor that allegedly occurred about 30 years ago during his time at St. Agatha Parish in Lawndale, as reported by the Archdiocese.

Kricek is accused of sexual abuse against a minor while he was assigned to St. John Bosco Parish in Belmont Cragin approximately 40 years ago, the Archdiocese said.

Both priests have denied the accusations, the Archdiocese said.

The Archdiocese included the following statement in each letter:

“Moreover, as is required by our child protection policies, the allegation was reported to civil authorities, the person making the allegation was offered the services of our Victim Assistance Ministry and the archdiocese has begun its investigation. After the civil authorities have finished their work, the archdiocese will complete its investigation and report the results to our Independent Review Board. We ask that you reserve judgement on this allegation until the process has concluded, as those accused are innocent until proven otherwise. We appreciate your patience. Only by conducting a thorough and impartial review can we ensure fairness to all concerned.”

This is a breaking news story. More information will be added as it becomes available.