Former Phila. Altar Boys Discount Accusation of Sex Abuse by Priest
By Tony Hanson
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- The defense began presenting its case today in the trial of a Philadelphia priest accused of sexually assaulting a ten-year-old altar boy in 1997 (see related story).
The alleged victim testified earlier in the trial that he was sexually assaulted by Father Andrew McCormick in the rectory after an evening mass (see previous story).
But the defense has presented testimony from several men who also served as altar boys and knew Father McCormick, beginning in the mid-1980s.
They have testified they spent time with Father McCormick, serving masses or alone in the rectory, even going on social outings with him, never sexually molested them or did anything that made them uncomfortable.
One witness testified everyone loved Father Andy, as he is known. McCormick has pleaded not guilty.