New Same-Sex Marriages In NY

Another 25 same-sex couples were married by Unitarian Universalist ministers here Saturday, even as prosecutors consider filing charges against the clergywomen.

The Revs. Kay Greenleaf and Dawn Sangrey started performing gay marriages in New Paltz last week after a restraining order was issued to prevent village Mayor Jason West from doing so.

West faces 19 misdemeanors and possible jail time for officiating at weddings Feb. 27 for couples who lacked a license.

Ulster County District Attorney Donald Williams is reviewing whether Greenleaf and Sangrey should face similar charges.

Williams said last week that the deciding factor is whether the weddings were simple religious ceremonies or an attempt to solemnize civil marriages without a license.

Although Unitarian ministers have been performing gay marriages across the country for years, Greenleaf and Sangrey have said they view the ceremonies as civil and legal.

Robert Gottlieb, a lawyer representing Greenleaf and Sangrey, said Saturday had not heard if the district attorney has decided to prosecute his clients.

"We're anxiously awaiting, just like you," he told a reporter.

Williams did not immediately return a call seeking comment.

On Saturday, Greenleaf and Sangrey were joined by a third minister, the Rev. Marion Visel, in performing the ceremonies in the village 75 miles north of New York City.