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March 13, 2024
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Sexual abuse charges have been withdrawn against a Toronto priest on loan to the Diocese of Peterborough.
The Office of the Crown Attorney has ended its criminal investigation against Fr. Neil Pereira, with all charges being dropped, according to a joint release from the Archdiocese of Toronto and the Diocese of Peterborough.
With the process concluded, the Archdiocese of Toronto will conduct its ecclesial investigation in accordance with its protocols. The Archdiocese says it will provide an update when this investigation concludes.
Pereira had been facing sexual interference and sexual assault on a minor charges after allegations were received by the Peterborough Diocese. The diocese informed the Children’s Aid Society and Peterborough Police Services as per diocesan protocols. Pereira was removed from pastoral ministry and was charged in July, 2023.
The statement said that while it recognizes allegations of misconduct against a priest are newsworthy, “it is essential to update stories and reports to reflect that the charges have been withdrawn to assist in restoring the reputation of Fr. Pereira.”
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