Trial date set for former Dubuque priest on sexual abuse charges

DUBUQUE, Iowa (KCRG) – The trial of the former Dubuque priest accused of sexually abusing altar boys in the 1980s is set for July 30.

Father Leo Riley is charged with five counts of sexual abuse. Last week he entered a written not guilty plea.

Prosecutors accuse Riley of sexually harassing altar boys when he was assistant pastor at Resurrection School from 1984 to 1986.

The criminal complaint details allegations from several former altar boys who claim Father Riley repeatedly abused them, often in the sacristy. At least two of them described permanent health problems related to the abuse.

A former altar boy came forward after being treated for a pelvic floor disorder. A second boy also reported a pelvic floor disorder. Studies have shown that this disorder is linked to sexual abuse.

Several former altar boys said that counseling and treatment helped them recall specific memories of the sexual abuse.

One of the boy’s mothers reported finding her son at school dazed and unable to walk straight. Another mother said she noticed reddish stains on her son’s underwear.

At least one parent reported the abuse to the school principal and Riley was transferred to another community a few weeks later.

Riley has denied all allegations against him.

He was released from prison on bail last month.

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