Priest cleared of assault

A second complaint is under investigation

A Roman Catholic priest who was accused of indecent assault by a 15-year-old boy has no case to answer, according to police.

Father Richard Dinnis was questioned after the boy accused him of the attack, in an article published by a Birmingham-based newspaper.

But after an investigation police decided that no charges would be brought against him.

However, a second complaint made against him by an 18-year-old student, is still under investigation.

'Without foundation'

A statement from Father Dinnis, which he was due to read out to his congregation in St Catherine's Church, in Birmingham, this weekend, said he was 'distressed' by the allegations.

This has been a distressing and stressful time for me

Father Richard Dinnis

"On Friday, 25 October, I was interviewed by the West Midlands Police," he said.

"They informed me that the allegation against me published in the Sunday Mercury newspaper on 20 October has been found to be without foundation.

"This has been a distressing and stressful time for me.

Second allegation

"With the encouragement of the Archbishop I have decided to take some time away from the parish.

"I am grateful for the expressions of support and prayer that I have received and please continue to pray for me as I will for you."

A spokesman from West Midlands police said: "The allegations made in the Sunday Mercury have been investigated and there are no criminal offences disclosed."

The spokesman said the second allegation was still under investigation.