BUFFALO, N.Y. — Four priests in the Buffalo Catholic Diocese have been reinstated after an independent investigation into allegations against them.

The Independent Review Board of the Diocese of Buffalo determined the accusations were unsubstantiated.

The following priests were reinstated after being placed on administrative leave during the investigation, according to the diocese.

  • Reverend Adolph Kowalczyk, pastor of Our Lady of the Sacred Heart in Orchard Park
  • Reverend Gregory Dobson, who is retired but continues to assist in various parishes of the diocese
  • Reverend Matt Nycz, pastor of SS. Peter and Paul in Williamsville
  • Reverend Monsignor James G. Kelly, a retired priest of the Diocese of Buffalo, but who continues to assist in parish ministry

The diocese released the following statement on Thursday:

"The Diocese followed its rigorous policies and protocols in dealing with the allegations in question, including notifying the Erie County District Attorney’s office, which declined to act on any of the allegations. In addition, Diocesan attorneys reached out to the attorneys for the plaintiffs, and the Diocese confronted each of the accused priests, all of whom denied ever committing any acts of abuse. Some of the accusers cooperated with the investigation, and one refused to cooperate or provide information beyond the accusation."