BUFFALO, N.Y. — Another priest within the Buffalo Catholic Diocese has been placed on administrative leave due to allegations of child sex abuse.

A Child Victims Act lawsuit was filed by a woman who claims she was abused in the 1980s at the parish of St. Matthew by Rev. Msgr. Leo McCarthy.

The diocese says it was not formally served with the suit, but learned of it through a search of publicly filed complaints. 

The 88-year-old priest is retired, but continues to assist in parish ministry. 

The Diocese notified the Erie County District Attorney’s office and Bishop Michael Fisher placed the retired priest on leave pending a thorough investigation. The Diocese also reported this to the Independent Review Board, which will be responsible for appointing an independent investigator. 

Monsignor McCarthy has denied the allegations against him.