YOUNGSTOWN — The Rev. William Lawrence, provincial superior of the Priestly Fraternity of St. Peter, has reported to the Diocese of Youngstown that an Independent Review Board has found no sufficient evidence to proceed with criminal action in the matter of accusations against the Rev. Denis Bouchard.

Bouchard, the former pastor of Queen of the Holy Rosary Parish, was placed on leave in 2018 after a man accused Bouchard of sexually abusing him when he was a child.

The Diocese reported a jury rendered a verdict in Bouchard’s favor on the claims for civil assault, civil battery and intentional infliction of emotional distress.

Officials said the investigation is now closed and Bouchard is no longer on administrative leave and his good name has been restored.

Bouchard will return to his Provincial Headquarters and receive a new assignment.

“The Diocese of Youngstown extends its best wishes to Father Bouchard in his continuing ministry,” a news release states.

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