FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 15, 2026
Diocese of Norwich Announcement
NORWICH, Conn. — The Diocese of Norwich announced today that, following a referral to and investigation by the Connecticut Department of Children and Families (DCF) concerning an allegation of abuse of a minor in Connecticut in the early 1970s, Father Laurence LaPointe, pastor of Corpus Christi Parish in Willimantic, has been placed on leave from all ministry and residence on church property pending further review.
After he was placed on leave on March 6, the Diocese learned on March 11 that Father Laurence LaPointe was recently indicted in Maryland in connection with alleged misconduct dating back to the 1970s.
Father Laurence LaPointe has denied the allegations.
“The clergy abuse crisis has caused profound harm to victims, their families, and the Church,” said Bishop Richard F. Reidy. “The Diocese of Norwich maintains a zero-tolerance policy for any cleric, employee, or volunteer found to have abused a minor. We remain steadfast in our commitment to protect children and young people while respecting the rights of the accused to a presumption of innocence and due process until the conclusion of the various legal processes. Although there has been no finding of guilt, the seriousness of the allegations necessitated his removal from ministry as a precautionary measure while the investigations and legal proceedings continue. I ask for your prayers for the persons making the allegations, for Father LaPointe, and for the parishioners of Corpus Christi Parish.”
The Diocese is notifying the Vatican’s Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith, which will direct the Diocese how to proceed with the canonical process.
To report suspected abuse, contact: local law enforcement, the Diocesan Reporting Line (800-624-7407) and the CT Department of Children and Families (800-842-2288) or the State of NY Child Protective Services (800-635-1522).
Media Contact:
Wayne Gignac
Communications Director, Diocese of Norwich
wgignac@norwichdiocese.net
About the Diocese of Norwich
Established in 1953, the Diocese of Norwich serves Catholics in Eastern Connecticut through parishes, schools, and charitable ministries centered on worship, service, and faith formation.
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