The priest who was accused in the Australian Parliament last year of sexually abusing former Traditional Anglican Primate Archbishop John Hepworth has returned to parish duties while a police investigation into the allegation is ongoing.
Michael Abbott, QC, who carried out an investigation on behalf of the Church, said he found no substance to the allegation and exonerated Mgr Ian Dempsey.

Archbishop of Adelaide Philip Wilson indicated that he was satisfied with Mr Abbott's findings. Archbishop Wilson added: "Subsequent inquiries by police could take some time to be completed."

Adelaide's Vicar-General, Fr Philip Marshall, said: "Mgr Dempsey's return to ministry, which is founded on his right to the presumption of innocence, does not contravene any of the Church's policies or any civil requirements."

Above: Archbishop John Hepworth