Calgary priest put on leave amid sexual misconduct allegations

A Catholic priest in Calgary has been placed on leave following allegations of sexual misconduct.

The Roman Catholic Diocese of Calgary released a statement on the weekend saying it has received allegations of sexual misconduct against FatherMalcolm D'Souza.

The alleged incidents involvedtwo minors and several adults and happened during the priest's tenureat St. MarkCatholic Church on Madigan Drive in the northeast between 2010 and 2016.

The statement is published on the diocese website, and it was read aloud this weekend in all churches where the alleged offender has served.

"The Diocese of Calgary has contacted law enforcement authorities in accordance with its policy document of the sexual misconduct committee of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Calgary," the statement says.

The Calgary Police Service's sex crimes unit told CBC News that it is unaware of any pending allegations or reports in reference to this case.

Second priest to be suspended

D'Souza has been removed from service at the St. Bernard's and Assumption parishes where he has most recently worked.

The statement says there will be no further comment from the diocese.

This weekend's announcement follows a similar statement released about another Catholic priest earlier this month.

A Calgary priest was suspended following allegations of sexual misconduct in a Vancouver parish between 1998 and 2003.

The diocese launched a campaign and a hotline in August encouraging people to report sexual misconduct or abuse

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