Priest admits 15 child-sex charges

A ROMAN CATHOLIC priest yesterday appeared in court and admitted 12 indecent assaults on boys under 16 and three charges of indecency with a child.

Father David Crowley, 44, committed the offences while he worked in West Yorkshire and Devon between June 1981 and August 1992. Crowley was suspended by the Bishop of Leeds, the Rt Rev David Konstant, who said he had betrayed the diocese.

"Along with all Catholics I am saddened and distressed that such shameful actions were committed by a priest," the bishop said. "We extend our deep sympathy to the young people affected and to their families.

"The interests of children and young people are paramount to us and it is inexcusable that someone who was in a position of trust should cause hurt.

"The people of the diocese have every right to expect a high standard of pastoral care. Now they justifiably believe their trust was betrayed."

Sentencing of Crowley, who was a priest at St Joseph's Church, Little Horton, Bradford, was adjourned at Bradford Crown Court to a date to be fixed.