Honolulu diocese awaits
report on priest

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Star-Bulletin staff

WAILUKU >> The Catholic diocese of Honolulu is awaiting a consultant's report before determining the future of a priest accused of sexually molesting a minor in Honolulu more than 20 years ago.

The Very Rev. Clyde Guerreiro said the consultant Therapy and Renewal Associates is waiting for a report from a psychologist before sending its findings to Hawaii.

The priest, the Rev. Joseph Bukoski III of Maria Lanakila Church on Maui, was examined in Washington state on June 12-14.

Guerreiro, a provincial of the Sacred Hearts order, said Bukoski underwent a battery of examinations, including a polygraph test.

The Rev. Gary Secor said the Diocesan Standing Committee for Sexual Misconduct may look at whether to recommend reinstatement, if it is able to review the report.

The Catholic Church announced on May 20 that Bukoski had been put on administrative leave.

More than 460 letters supporting his reinstatement have been sent to the church, and more than 863 people have signed a petition requesting his reinstatement, said Jan Pasamonte, a Bukoski supporter.