Michael Greene, the 50-year-old rector of St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Albany, has pleaded guilty to a non-criminal charge of trespassing, shortly before trial was set to begin for charges of criminal mischief. Under the previous charges, Greene could have faced 15 days in jail as well as financial penalties.
The original charges stem from allegations that Greene slashed the tires of a former parish employee. Greene was reportedly captured by video surveillance entering the garage.
As part of the plea deal, the judge ordered Greene to reimburse the victim for the cost of her tire. Additionally, he was ordered to avoid contacting the woman.
Anglican Watch notes that Greene is on administrative leave. We are concerned, however, about his suitability to continue in active ministry, both due to the power imbalance between him and the former parish employee, and the violence reflected in his alleged slashing of her tires.
In other words, we believe Greene to be troubled, both in terms of mental health, and his ethical reference points. We therefore believe he should be removed from ministry now, before additional problems with his conduct arise.
Additional information available here.
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