LAKE LENORE — The Roman Catholic Diocese of Saskatoon acted swiftly after finding out one of their priests was charged with sexual assault.
Today the RCMP announced that they charged Fr. Anthony Atter of Lake Lenore with sexual assault, sexual interference and sexual exploitation. RCMP say the incidents allegedly occurred between Sept. 1 and Nov. 4, 2020.
The diocese told Glacier Media that they learned today the police charged Fr. Anthony Atter and they removed him from his position and will co-operate with police.
“As soon as the diocese learned of these charges, Fr. Anthony Atter was removed from ministry,” said Kiply Lukan Yaworski, Communications co-ordinator, Roman Catholic Diocese of Saskatoon.
“The diocese will be cooperating fully with police on this matter, and is unable to respond to questions and comments on the case at this time, while it is under investigation and/or before the courts.
“The Roman Catholic Diocese of Saskatoon takes the matter of sexual abuse and serious misconduct very seriously and is committed to the care and support of victims of sexual abuse,” added Yaworski.
Policies and commitments regarding safeguarding – including sexual abuse – can be found at https://rcdos.ca/our-diocese/safe-environment/safer-church/
The Humboldt RCMP arrested the 45-year-old priest after receiving multiple reports of incidents of a sexual nature.
Fr. Atter was responsible for the parishes of St. Gregory (St. Gregor), St. Ann (Annaheim) and St. Anthony (Lake Lenore).
Police say no details relating to the victim will be provided to protect their identity.
Atter will appear in Humboldt Provincial Court on March 22, 2021.
