Anglican priest arrested for child porn

An Anglican priest in the diocese of Eastern Newfoundland and Labrador was arrested Tues., Dec. 8, and is facing charges of possession and distribution of child pornography.

The Royal Newfoundland Constabulary said Rev. Robin Barrett, 50, of Conception Bay South, was arrested following an investigation by the Toronto Police Service.

The diocesan bishop of Eastern Newfoundland and Labrador, Cyrus Pitman, was quoted by the Canadian Press as saying that “Given the gravity of these charges, we are co-operating fully with the authorities.” Bishop Pitman also said, “We as a faith community, are deeply concerned with the continued issue of sexual exploitation of children and we will do all we can to address this issue.”

He also announced that Barrett has been relieved of his duties as rector of St. Paul’s Church in Goulds, near St. John’s. He previously served as rector of the church of the Good Shepherd in Mount Pearl.