Allegation against Former Jacksonville Priest " Credible"

By Sean Crawford
The Peoria Public Radio
January 14, 2014

http://peoriapublicradio.org/post/allegation-against-former-jacksonville-priest-credible

[with audio]

An internal church investigation has determined an allegation of sex abuse against an Illinois priest is "credible." IPR'S Sean Crawford has details:

30 years ago, Father Robert DeGrand  worked in a Jacksonville parish.  It was during that time he is alleged to have sexually abused a child. The Springfield Diocese formed a panel to review the claim, and has now determined it has merit.  However, the details have not been made public. 

The 61 year old DeGrand has most recently worked in churches in the Effingham area. He's on leave and his future within the church is unclear.  The matter is being turned over to the Vatican which could remove him from the priesthood.

It's less likely he will face criminal charges. The Diocese has also turned its findings over to the Morgan County State's Attorney. But the statute of limitations has expired.