Andover Priest Reinstated After Sex Abuse Investigation

ANDOVER, MA — The Rev. Peter Gori has been reinstated as the pastor of Andover's St. Augustine Parish after an independent investigation into a sexual abuse allegation against him. The Archiocese of Boston announced Monday that Gori has been returned to active ministry. The allegations against him were unfounded, the archdiocese said.

Gori was placed on leave in April, 2019 after he was accused of assaulting a 10-year-old boy nearly 30 years prior. He has been the pastor of St. Augustine since 2009 and previously was assigned to the church between 1988 and 1993.

"The Augustinian Order relied upon an independent investigator, Praesidium Inc., and their Independent Review Board in concluding the allegation could not be substantiated," the Archdiocese said in a news release.

According to the Archdiocese, the alleged victim's attorney withdrew from the case, and the alleged dates of abuse did not coincide with Gori's assignment history.

"The alleged victim could not recall details of the abuse and declined to participate any further in the investigation," the release continued. "In addition, the Essex County District Attorney affirmed that it was no longer pursuing an open investigation."

“I am pleased that the independent investigation has been completed after a thorough review of the facts," Cardinal Sean O'Malley said in a statement. "The Church’s commitment to achieving a fair and just resolution is of critical importance in respecting the rights of all the parties involved. Fr. Gori has enjoyed over forty years of ministry as an Augustinian and in the Archdiocese of Boston. We join the parishioners of Saint Augustine’s in welcoming Fr. Gori home.”

“Every allegation of sexual abuse of a minor must be and is taken very seriously by everyone," Gori said in a statement. "Most priests live good and faithful lives. In my forty years of priestly ministry I have tried to live a good and faithful life.”

“I am very happy to return to my parish home of St. Augustine," the priest continued. "I have missed parish life and our wonderful parishioners. I am grateful to be able to begin with the promise of Easter at hand. Please pray for all victims of sexual abuse as they seek to heal and pray for our priests who serve the people of God joyfully."

After the allegation against Gori first surfaced, he wrote a letter to parishioners denying the allegations.

Christopher Huffaker can be reached at 412-265-8353 or chris.huffaker@patch.com.