(Mobile, Ala.) - The Archdiocese of Mobile tells Local 15 News it is cooperating with authorities as a Deacon is being investigated on suspicion of possessing child porn.
Deacon Robert Nouwen has been placed on administrative leave.
Local 15 became aware of the investigation through the parent of a child at St. Vincent de Paul School.
That parent, who wished to remain anonymous, is concerned about an investigation into St. Vincent de Paul Church Deacon Robert "Bob" Nouwen. The deacon is being investigated for possession of child pornography.
In a statement released to Local 15 today Archbishop Thomas Rodi said his office was "contacted by authorities investigating Deacon Robert L. Nouwen on suspicion of session of child pornography."
The statement goes on to say, "the Archdiocese of Mobile immediately placed Deacon Nouwen on administrative leave."
The Archbishop said that means Nouwen "cannot exercise any ministry".
The statement goes on to say that sexual abuse of minors will not be tolerated, and they will cooperate with civil authorities about any such charges.
"This matter is both painful and abhorrent," the statement says. "We ask for prayers of all involved, and we pray for healing and peace of soul of all victims of child abuse."
