“The Diocese of Springfield-Cape Girardeau received word this morning that retired Fr. Fred Lutz was arrested by Stoddard County deputies. As you may recall, the Diocese extended full access to its clerical records and actively participated in the recent review of its records by the Missouri Attorney General’s Office, which in turn referred three cases to local law enforcement for further review, Fr. Lutz among them. Following its safe environment protocol, the Diocese had previously reported the allegations against Fr. Lutz in Stoddard County to the then-county prosecutor years ago when the allegations were initially made. The Diocese will continue to participate in this ongoing investigation and so as not to hinder law enforcement in its efforts, the Diocese is unable to further comment at this time.”

Diocese of Springfield-Cape Girardeau