Defense asks for priest's release on abuse charges
RAPID CITY, S.D. (AP) — A defense attorney for a Rapid City priest accused of sexual abuse has asked a judge to release the defendant to the supervision of Catholic diocese at Casa Maria.
But, prosecutors Tuesday objected to the release and asked the judge to continue John Praveen's $100,000 bond. Defense attorney John Murphy says Praveen would be monitored at the diocese property near Piedmont for retired priests.
The 38-year-old priest is accused of sexually abusing a 13-year-old child. KOTA-TV reports Deputy State's Attorney Kelsey Weber says Praveen presents a flight risk because he has few ties to the community. Seventh Circuit Judge Robert Mandel did not immediately rule on the defense request.