Statement of the Sisters of Charity of New York of an Allegation of Abuse by One of Its Members

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The Leadership Council of the Sisters of Charity of New York made the following statement Feb. 13.
     The Sisters of Charity of New York sadly acknowledge that an allegation of sexual misconduct was brought against Sister Mary Ann D’Antonio, S.C., by a former student at St. Raymond Academy for Girls in the Bronx. The alleged incident is said to have occurred approximately 30 years ago when Sister Mary Ann was a teacher at the Academy; she is currently principal. Sister Mary Ann denies the allegation. This matter was initially referred to the Bronx District Attorney, which could not pursue the complaint due to statute of limitations restrictions, and then to the Safe Environment Office of the Archdiocese of New York, which is investigating.
     Sister Mary Ann was assigned to St. Raymond Academy for Girls in 1985; she became principal in 1999. While the investigation is under way, Sister Mary Ann has relinquished her duties as principal. She will not have any contact with the school or its students until the matter has been investigated and resolved. The pastor of St. Raymond parish, Father James A. Cruz, has encouraged any student with similar allegations to speak to her parents and notify the Bronx District Attorney.
     The Sisters of Charity offer prayers for the woman who brought forth the allegation, St. Raymond parish families and students, and for Sister Mary Ann.