Holy See to investigate nuncio on charges of sexual misconduct

Vatican City, Sep 4, 2013 / 14:33 pm

The Vatican has launched an investigation of the Apostolic Nuncio to the Dominican Republic, Polish Archbishop Joseph Wesolowski, in the wake of accusations of grave sexual conduct. 

Vatican spokesman Father Federico Lombardi announced on Wednesday that the Holy See has also accepted the resignation of the nuncio.

Speaking to Reuters, Father Lombardi said Archbishop Wesolowski "has been relieved of his duties and the Holy See has launched an investigation."

The Vatican spokesman's announcement followed statements made during a press conference today by the Attorney General of the Dominican Republic, Francisco Dominguez, who said no formal accusations have yet been made against the nuncio.

Dominguez said the investigation is still in its initial phase and that he has appointed an official to coordinate with the Vatican.

A report on Dominican Republic television alleged that the Nuncio had frequented poor neighborhoods in Santo Domingo seeking sexual favors from minors.

The Apostolic Nunciature in the Dominican Republic, which also serves Puerto Rico, has not issued any statement, but according to official records, Archbishop Wesolowski stepped down from his post on August 21.

Father Lombardi also said that the archbishop was relieved of his duties "in the last few weeks," in the wake of the accusations made against him.

The bishops of the Dominican Republic announced that they would hold a press conference on the matter on Thursday.