Diocese of Lincoln releases findings of investigation into priest’s alleged misconduct
The Catholic Diocese of Lincoln on Wednesday issued a letter detailing the findings of an investigation into allegations of misconduct by a now deceased priest.
The Catholic Diocese of Lincoln on Wednesday issued a letter detailing the findings of an investigation into allegations of misconduct by a now deceased priest.
The priest, Monsignor Leonard Kalin, the former pastor of the University of Nebraska’s Newman Center. Kalin served at the Newman Center from 1970 to 1998, and died in 2008.
A former seminarian, Wei Hsien Wan, alleged that Kalin made unwanted sexual advances toward him and another man when he was a young seminarian in 1998.Wan said he reported Kalin’s actions to a priest twice, after which time Bruskewitz imposed restrictions on Kalin.
The Diocese of Lincoln hired an independent private investigator to look into the allegations, the letter states, adding that the investigator reviewed personnel files and conducted more than 35 in-person interviews to reach his
conclusions.
The investigators report indicated Kalin’s leadership style was “demand and authoritarian, and his use of alcohol, cigarettes and frequent visits to casinos was confirmed.” The investigation also revealed that Msgr. Kalin did on occasion make sexual advances against some college students and seminarians. the letter says.
The letter, from Archbishop Lucas also gave an update on priests who have been placed on administrative or personal leave.
After the allegations, the Diocese of Lincoln says it took steps to refine its Safe Environment Policies, including creating a Ministerial Conduct Board and issuing a Clergy Code of Conduct.
“We are pleased the investigation has been completed,” the archbishop said in the letter. “We share these results today with our brothers and sisters in Christ to continue to build a culture of vigilance within the diocese. We are also incredibly grateful to all those who came forward to share their experiences as part of the investigation.”
A diocesan spokesman said anyone affected by Kalin who needs assistance should contact the Diocese of Lincoln to receive help, or contact law enforcement.
