Jury Acquits Northern Minnesota Priest In Sexual Misconduct Case
A jury in northern Minnesota acquitted a former priest Monday in a case where he was accused of molesting four girls.
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A jury in northern Minnesota acquitted a former priest Monday in a case where he was accused of molesting four girls.
A man wrongfully convicted of sexually abusing his stepdaughter will likely receive $475,000 from Minnesota taxpayers -- but the state legislature must still approve the award. In his attorney's office Wednesday, Roger Olsen described how he still has trouble getting a job even a decade after the conviction was tossed.
A 12-person panel comprised of doctors, lawyers and church laypersons will oversee any suspicions of clergy sex abuse in the Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis. It's part of a breakthrough settlement reached on Thursday with the Ramsey County Attorney to resolve a civil suit that was filed last June.
On Wednesday, Dec. 9, WCCO is hosting a phone bank as part of our "Trees of Hope" series. WCCO will be raising funds for Minnesota Adult and Teen Challenge. MnTC helps thousands of people overcome drug addiction and lead healthy and productive lives.
Two former student actors at the Children's Theatre Company have filed suit against the theatre, co-founder John Clark Donahue and Minneapolis businessman Jason McLean. The lawsuit alleges McLean sexually assaulted a female student in 1983, when she was 15 years old.
Friends and neighbors paint a dark picture of Danny Heinrich's past. He is the man in jail on child pornography charges and a person of interest in Jacob Wetterling's kidnapping. Born in 1963 at Paynesville Hospital, Heinrich grew up just south of town. He spent most of his childhood with his parents and two brothers in a home near Lake Koronis.
Tire tracks and shoeprints: Investigators have old evidence in the Jacob Wetterling case that links person of interest Danny Heinrich to the area where Jacob was last seen. According to a former U.S. Attorney, prosecutors need more.
It took a jury less than two hours Thursday to convict a two-time convicted sex offender of producing and distributing child pornography. The United States Attorney's Office says 52-year-old Rex Lee Furman, of Federal Dam, was convicted after a three-day trial of 13 counts of producing child porn, two counts of distributing it and one count each of receipt of child porn, possession of child porn and committing a felony while required to register as a sex offender.
A 66-year-old northern Minnesota man was convicted Friday of sexually abusing two women on the Red Lake Indian Reservation. The U.S. Attorney's Office says William Andrew Clark, of Blackduck, was found guilty of one count of aggravated sexual abuse and one count of sexual abuse in connection to two rapes on the reservation.
Pope Francis praised American bishops Wednesday for their "generous commitment'" to helping victims of clergy sex abuse, drawing an angry rebuke from advocates who said the bishops acted only under the threat of hundreds of lawsuits. Addressing church leaders in a prayer service at the Washington cathedral, Francis said they had faced the crisis "without fear of self-criticism and at the cost of mortification and great sacrifice."
A priest convicted of child sexual abuse is part of a group that is raising money to buy the Archdiocese of St. Paul & Minneapolis' Chancery building.
The Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis has put a Roseville priest on leave after receiving what it is calling a credible allegation that he sexually abused a minor in the 1980s. The Rev. Robert Fitzpatrick is pastor at Corpus Christi parish and St. Rose of Lima parish and school.
St. John's Abbey Church stands unchanged on the campus of St. John's University. But within the walls, there is a shift in leadership. Father Tom Andert -- the monastery's prior, or second in command -- stepped aside for now following accusations he molested a former student.
Victims of alleged sexual abuse by clergy in the Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis have filed more than 400 claims against the archdiocese in federal bankruptcy court, according to attorneys for victims and the archdiocese. The claims were filed by Monday, the deadline imposed by the bankruptcy court.
Two men are suing the Boys Scouts of America, claiming they were sexually abused as scouts by troop leaders in St. Paul. The plaintiffs' attorney say the lawsuits allege the Boys Scouts organization created a public nuisance by its negligence and concealment of abuse allegations and by failing to warn parents and others about the "prevalence" of abuse.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation is seeking the public's help to locate additional victims of a convicted online child predator who may have Lucas Chansler, 31, formerly of St. Johns, Florida, was sentenced to 105 years in prison after pleading guilty last August to nine counts of producing child pornography.
A former boy scout has come forward with claims his scoutmaster sexually abused him for years.
A retired St. John's Abbey priest accused of sexually abusing children is dead. The law office of Jeff Anderson and Associates announced Friday that Father Richard Eckroth passed away this week at the age of 88.
A former Hastings priest accused of sexual abuse was found not guilty on Tuesday. The 64-year-old was accused of repeatedly sexually abusing a former altar boy at a Hastings Catholic Church from 1989 to 1991.
The Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis says it placed an active priest on a leave of absence after it received an allegation of past sexual abuse. Archbishop John Nienstedt says in a statement there is a "credible allegation" that the Rev. Gerald Dvorak sexually abused a minor in the 1970s.
A former St. Paul Public Schools custodian was sentenced Thursday to 10 years in prison for sexually abusing several young children, including members of his family. Walter Johann Happel, 63, struck a plea deal in March after pleading guilty to one count of surreptitious invasion of privacy, after he spied on an 11-year-old boy in Linwood Monroe Arts Plus School student bathroom.
A judge says three people who claim they were sexually abused by priests can proceed with public nuisance claims against the Diocese of New Ulm in southern Minnesota. Brown County District Court Judge Robert Docherty dismissed some counts in the two lawsuits in a ruling dated March 27. But he ruled the public nuisance claims can go forward.
The Diocese of New Ulm has released the names of four priests accused of sexual abuse. St. Paul lawyer Jeff Anderson says that, of the four named, one has to his knowledge not been publicly named before -- Father Dennis Becker.
An attorney has released the names of 17 clergy members accused of sexual abuse or misconduct with a minor in the Archdiocese of St. Paul-Minneapolis. St. Paul lawyer Jeff Anderson said Wednesday the clergy were identified in notice of claims submitted to the archdiocese and its insurance carriers.
The archbishop of the St. Paul-Minneapolis Archdiocese says he has ordered a bankruptcy declaration because it's the fairest way to help victims of sexual abuse by priests.
Legal observers and officials say they have received a growing number of reports of federal agents impersonating construction workers, delivery drivers and in some cases anti-ICE activists in Minnesota.
Temps stay above average all week, mostly in the 30s for highs and 20s for lows.
Lindsey Vonn, who came out of retirement to compete in the Milano Cortina Games, is in stable condition after her crash.
Saturday marks one month since a federal agent shot and killed Renee Good in Minneapolis. Thousands gathered at Powderhorn Park to celebrate her life and honor her legacy.
Savannah Guthrie released a new video on Saturday, saying her family is willing to pay for the safe return of their mother.
Legal observers and officials say they have received a growing number of reports of federal agents impersonating construction workers, delivery drivers and in some cases anti-ICE activists in Minnesota.
Saturday marks one month since a federal agent shot and killed Renee Good in Minneapolis. Thousands gathered at Powderhorn Park to celebrate her life and honor her legacy.
Becca Good, the partner of Renee Good, released a statement on Friday, thanking the community for their kindness.
Minneapolis Police are investigating a fatal shooting that happened Friday evening. Police say officers responded to a crash near 33rd and Chicago Avenue around 8:25 p.m.
The Minneapolis Fire Department was called to a utility generation plant on the 600 block of Main Street Southeast on reports of smoke and flames around 10:30 p.m. Friday.
Several sheriff's offices in Minnesota have what's called a 287(g) agreement with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Different models allow departments to help enforce ICE operations and to serve warrants on people inside their jails. Crow Wing County has both.
Border czar Tom Homan says in the past month, 158 people have been arrested for impeding or assaulting federal officers, with 85 cases already accepted for prosecution.
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement operations aren't only happening in the Twin Cities. Federal agents are also working in smaller towns, and in some, seeing similar resistance from the community.
The Crow Wing County Jail started accepting ICE detainees in November 2025. The county sheriff, Eric Klang, says that oftentimes they're brought in a few at a time.
Community leaders in St. Cloud, Minnesota, say federal agents have detained at least 10 Somali people there and arrested several more during protests. One man says he was arrested and released, only to be arrested again.
John Lauritsen shares the story behind a massive snow sculpture that's now become a winter destination.
A jury has found a Wisconsin man guilty of forging threats against President Donald Trump in an attempt to get a witness against him deported.
Minnesota and Wisconsin are among the 11 states reporting their first measles cases of 2026.
Hundreds of schools in Minnesota and Wisconsin have closed or shifted to virtual learning on Friday amid dangerous cold.
A Wisconsin man accused of sending the state Supreme Court's chief justice intimidating emails has been sentenced to probation.
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement operations aren't only happening in the Twin Cities. Federal agents are also working in smaller towns, and in some, seeing similar resistance from the community.
While Operation Metro Surge continues in the Twin Cities, Minnesota's farm country is also feeling the impact. The major concerns for farmers and the trickle-down effect it could have on consumers.
Minnesota's governor spoke out Sunday afternoon following the shooting death of Alex Pretti by federal immigration enforcement agents. "What's the plan, Donald Trump? What is the plan?" Walz said. "Fear, violence and chaos is what you wanted from us, and you clearly underestimated the people of this state and nation."
A marching protest against U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement in Minneapolis Friday afternoon happened as a widespread work stoppage across Minnesota, as organizers called for a day of no work, no school and no shopping.
"When you come to our church, you see Muslims, Christians, Catholics, atheists, LGBT community, everybody with one purpose: helping the neighbor, loving your neighbor as yourself," said Pastor Sergio Amezcua
Legal observers and officials say they have received a growing number of reports of federal agents impersonating construction workers, delivery drivers and in some cases anti-ICE activists in Minnesota.
On GOP caucus night, a straw poll for governor among 13 candidates saw House Speaker Lisa Demuth emerge as the winner. House Speaker Demuth will be front and center for the next three months during the upcoming legislative session. She spoke to Esme Murphy on WCCO Sunday Morning at 10:30 a.m.
The Minneapolis Lake Street Council alone says they’ve lost $46 million in revenue since December, and are pleading with community members to spend money at local shops and restaurants.
Several Twin Cities small businesses say Operation Metro Surge has cost them millions of dollars in revenue. Now, they're asking for the community’s help.
The Republican chairman of the House Oversight Committee is requesting records related to firms partially owned by the husband of Rep. Ilhan Omar.
Amid ongoing immigration operations in Minnesota, a local company is filling a desperate need for on-demand legal help.
Outside the governor's mansion in St. Paul, Minnesota, on Friday, demonstrators, including many students and teachers, pleaded for Gov. Tim Walz to enact an immediate eviction moratorium to help families impacted by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement surge.
It's part of broader protests calling on the Minneapolis-based retailer to respond more directly to immigration enforcement.
While Operation Metro Surge continues in the Twin Cities, Minnesota's farm country is also feeling the impact. The major concerns for farmers and the trickle-down effect it could have on consumers.
For Minister JaNae Bates Imari, Co-executive director of ISAIAH — a progressive, multi-faith non-profit — it's an idea that was set into motion weeks ago.
Minneapolis Police are investigating a fatal shooting that happened Friday evening. Police say officers responded to a crash near 33rd and Chicago Avenue around 8:25 p.m.
The Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension says it "remains committed" to working with the FBI and the Department of Justice on finding a joint path forward in the investigation into the fatal shooting of Alex Pretti.
Border czar Tom Homan says in the past month, 158 people have been arrested for impeding or assaulting federal officers, with 85 cases already accepted for prosecution.
Lang posted a video to social media of him kicking the newly-installed sculpture that reads "prosecute ICE."
Investigators have no proof that the missing mother of "Today" show host Savannah Guthrie is still alive but are holding out hope she is "still out there," the sheriff said.
Public health officials say a measles crisis has long been brewing in Minnesota.
Patients in Minnesota are canceling appointments and deferring critical health care needs because of fear of immigration enforcement as the federal crackdown continues, doctors say.
Children's Minnesota announced Tuesday it plans to pause some gender-affirming care for children amid "threats" from the federal government.
Nurses in Minneapolis doubted federal immigration officers' claims about a Mexican immigrant's severe injuries.
Minnesota and Wisconsin are among the 11 states reporting their first measles cases of 2026.
Bad Bunny says he wants to bring his culture to his 2026 Super Bowl halftime show Sunday.
Renowned comedian Dave Chappelle is set to return to the Twin Cities later this month to perform and "show a stand with a community at the center of events that should unite all Americans," show organizers said Monday.
Complete closure of the performing arts center in Washington, D.C., will start on July 4, Mr. Trump said. It's not yet clear how extensive the changes to the building might be.
Music's biggest night returned Sunday with the 68th annual Grammy Awards. Here is how to watch and stream and what to know.
In 1971, Demond Wilson appeared on an episode of "All in the Family," a role that led him to land a lead part in "Sanford and Son."
Lindsey Vonn, who came out of retirement to compete in the Milano Cortina Games, is in stable condition after her crash.
U.S. speed skater Greta Myers learned about her Olympic debut in the 3000m three hours before the race was due to begin.
Saddiq Bay scored 30 points, including two free throws, as the New Orleans Pelicans overcame an 18-point deficit to beat the Minnesota Timberwolves 119-115.
Veteran point guard Mike Conley is expected to return to the Minnesota Timberwolves after being traded twice this week, NBA insider Shams Charania reports.
Minnesota United FC is adding an international star to its roster.
The state of Minnesota is vowing to continue the legal battle after it and 12 cities were denied a temporary restraining order that would have shut down Operation Metro Surge.
The state of Minnesota is vowing to continue the legal battle after it and 12 cities, including St Paul and Minneapolis, were denied a temporary restraining order that would have shut down Operation Metro Surge.
While Operation Metro Surge continues in the Twin Cities, Minnesota's farm country is also feeling the impact. The major concerns for farmers and the trickle-down effect it could have on consumers.
While Operation Metro Surge continues in the Twin Cities, Minnesota's farm country is also feeling the impact. The major concerns for farmers and the trickle-down effect it could have on consumers.
While Operation Metro Surge continues in the Twin Cities, Minnesota's farm country is also feeling the impact. The major concerns for farmers and the trickle down effect it could have on consumers.
John Lauritsen shares the story behind a massive snow sculpture that's now become a winter destination.
Northland Arboretum was built half a century ago on top of what was once a city dump. But over time, nature carved its own path with a little help from a Zamboni.
St. James is a smaller town with a main street and a railroad running though. But inside a local building, the main street and the railroad are even smaller.
On Dec. 9, 1965, "A Charlie Brown Christmas" debuted on CBS, and it became an instant classic. Lee Jenkins' home is proof that the show is still a hit six decades later.
Holiday lights are on full display across the state right now, and just south of the Twin Cities you'll find a Christmas light show that's been around for more than half a century.
According to the Police Executive Research Firm, 82% of police departments in the United States equip officers with body cameras. That number comes from 2023, meaning it could be even higher by now.
With the new $2,600 stipend, DHS said the cost of a single self-deportation is $5,100. That's significantly less than the cost to arrest, detain and deport an undocumented immigrant, which DHS said costs more than $18,000.
It might be hard to believe, but it's gotten warmer outside over the past few days. The temperature is creeping above zero during the day, but the wind chill remains dangerously low. So, how is wind chill calculated?
Minnesota gun rights are in the spotlight after U.S. Border Patrol agents shot and killed a lawful gun carrier over the weekend.
It's a saying Minnesotans and Wisconsinites know well: "There's no such thing as bad weather, just bad clothing." The problem is that even proper clothing might not be enough to withstand the bitter chill headed for the bold north.
Minnesotans got a great view of the northern lights Tuesday night.
A look at the newest addition to the polar bear population at St. Paul, Minnesota's Como Zoo.
From food shelves to school programs, our team is proud to serve where it matters most.
The Minnesota State Fair has unveiled its new food, drinks and vendors for 2025.
A suspect was taken into custody after an attack on Pearl Street Mall in Boulder on June 1 in which there were 15 people and a dog who were victims. The suspect threw Molotov cocktails that burned some of the victims, who were part of a march for Israeli hostages.
WCCO meteorologist Adam Del Rosso says highs return to the mid 30s this afternoon with the help of a SE wind and a little sunshine to end the day.
In Minnesota, weather can be all over the place. Here at WCCO, we want to give you what you need to prepare for what's happening next.
Temps stay above average all week, mostly in the 30s for highs and 20s for lows.
WCCO meteorologist Adam Del Rosso says warmth will return to wrap up the weekend.
We return to above average freezing temperatures on Sunday, and have a chance at the 40s Monday. Lisa Meadows shares how long we'll remain above average and when we might see a hint of snow.
In an effort to push back on Operation Metro Surge dozens of businesses in the Twin Cities are fundraising. They're using everything from beer, to ice cream, to art. Ashley Grams shows us how the community is coming together.
We've seen a lot of creativity amidst the unrest of the last few weeks, and as Photojournalist Nick Lunemann shows us, we are hearing it too.
Dry January might be over, but for many people, the choice to not drink goes well beyond just one month. One local distillery has opened a new space to make sure all feel welcome, whether you're drinking or not.
Here are the latest updates and headlines from WCCO.com.
On GOP caucus night, a straw poll for governor among 13 candidates saw House Speaker Lisa Demuth emerge as the winner. House Speaker Demuth will be front and center for the next three months during the upcoming legislative session. She spoke to Esme Murphy on WCCO Sunday Morning at 10:30 a.m.