BRAINTREE -- The Archdiocese of Boston announced May 23 that the allegation of sexual abuse of a minor by Father Joseph F. Byrne has been found to be unsubstantiated. Father Byrne was placed on administrative leave in May 2012, after the archdiocese received an allegation of sexual abuse of a child. The allegation concerned conduct alleged to have occurred in the 1970s. Father Byrne is no longer on administrative leave and is assigned the status of Senior Priest.

In reaching this decision, the archdiocese said in a statement, Cardinal Seán P. O'Malley reaffirmed his care and concern for all persons impacted by the reality of sexual abuse of children. The cardinal and the Archdiocese remain committed to resolving cases of this nature in a manner that is as just as possible for all involved.