A western Kentucky priest accused of sexually abusing two minors has been reinstated by the Vatican but remains banned from entering schools for five years. The Diocese of Owensboro announced Monday that Joseph Edward Bradley could resume priestly duties after the Vatican overrode a recommendation from the Owensboro bishop that he be permanently suspended.
Bradley served in leadership roles at Owensboro Catholic High School in the 1980s. His priesthood was suspended in 2019 after the diocese received two reports accusing him of sexual abuse against a minor stemming from his time at the school. He has always maintained his innocence.