A Brampton priest has been removed from pastoral ministry after being charged with sexual assault and sexual interference, the Archdiocese of Toronto says.
Rev. James Cherickal, pastor of St. Jerome’s Catholic Church, has been charged by Peel Regional Police, according to a statement by the Archdiocese of Toronto.
Peel police confirmed he was arrested and charged Dec. 18 with one count each of sexual assault and sexual interference.
“As the matter is now before the courts, and to protect the integrity of the investigation, no further information can be provided at this time,” police said in an email.
“Following our protocols and procedures relating to allegations of misconduct, Fr. Cherickal has been removed from pastoral ministry,” the archdiocese statement said. “As with any accused in our Canadian legal system, he is considered innocent until proven guilty and entitled to due process.”
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