சிறார்களை பலாத்காரம் செய்ததற்காக கத்தோலிக்க பாதிரியாருக்கு 14 வருடம் சிறை

சிறுவர்களை பாலியல் பலாத்காரம் செய்ததற்காக கொலராடோவில் கத்தோலிக்க பாதிரியாருக்கு 14 வருடம் சிறைதண்டனை விதிக்கப்பட்டுள்ளது.

Priest to serve at least 14 years for sexual abuse May 30, 2007

Timothy Evans, a priest convicted in two counties of sexually abusing boys he was supposed to be counseling, will serve at least 14 years in a state prison, a Larimer County judge ruled today.

The court handed down what’s called an "indeterminate" sentence, setting a minimum of 14 years while leaving the maximum, which could be as much as life, to the discretion of the parole board. The board would base its determination, in part, on the inmate’s behavior and rehabilitation efforts while behind bars.

The courtroom this morning was packed with supporters of Evans as well as families and friends of his victims.

Scott Berry, who attended seminary with Evans 22 years ago, called him compassionate, intelligent and caring.

"He’s made an impact on so many lives," Berry said during the sentencing hearing. "He’s helped so many people."

Several people asked for leniency for Evans. Judge Jolene Blair said she had received a packet of more than 50 letters in support of Evans.

Mary Craig, a friend and parishioner, told the court that Evans is a "talented leader, teacher, counselor, mentor and wonderful and loyal friend."

"Tim is an intelligent and highly gifted human being," Craig said. "I ask you not to waste his life in prison."

Two of Evans’ victims called him a manipulative sexual predator.

"This man is extremely manipulative and conniving," one man told the court. "To this day, I experience nightmares from his crime."

Evans also addressed the court. He made no apologies and said that he would be appealing his conviction.

"I was, and am, a joyful servant of the Lord," he said. "I may love recklessly and foolishly, but I love unconditionally."

Evans, 44, who was found guilty in March of two counts of sexual assault on a child by someone in a position of trust and engaging in a pattern of abuse, said he hoped his sentence would promote healing.

He has also been convicted in Jefferson County on similar charges and is awaiting sentencing there.

Evans, who worked at the Spirit of Christ Community Church in Arvada and St. Elizabeth Ann Seton parish in Fort Collins, is the first Catholic priest to be convicted of criminal sex charges in Colorado since 2002, when sweeping allegations of abuse by the clergy surfaced nationally.

Last month, one of the victims filed a civil lawsuit against Evans and the Archdiocese of Denver, accusing the church of intentionally concealing the priest’s conduct.

During the two trials, victims testified that Evans wrestled with them and fondled them during what were supposed to be trust-building exercise.