Though the investigation into allegations of sexual misconduct by the Rev. Jay Mello is over, the work for the diocese isn’t.

According to the Diocese of Fall River, victim assistance that began when the investigation began can continue indefinitely.

On July 1, the diocese announced the end of a yearlong investigation into allegations made against Mello, the former pastor of St. Michael and St. Joseph parishes in Fall River’s north end. According to the diocese, Mello is credibly accused of having “abused his position of power as a priest and engaged in sexual misconduct with two parishioners he was counseling.” Mello was restricted from priestly duties and will not return to lead those parishes.

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