Statement from Diocese of La Crosse

On Wednesday, July 14, 2010, the Diocese of La Crosse and Aquinas Catholic Schools learned that Father Patrick Umberger had been arrested as part of a criminal investigation.

Father Umberger has served as pastor of St. Patrick Parish in Onalaska, as chaplain for St. Patrick School, and as chaplain of Aquinas Middle School. It is the policy of the Diocese that pending the outcome of the investigation, Father Umberger will not be assigned any duties, and that policy will be followed by the Diocese and Aquinas Catholic Schools.

This action should not be interpreted as an assessment of guilt or innocence. It is taken to protect all parties involved.

Consistent with diocesan practice, the Diocese has been in touch with and is cooperating with civil authorities. Aquinas Catholic Schools will cooperate fully with civil and diocesan authorities during this investigation.

Because this is an ongoing investigation, there will be no further comment from the Diocese or school officials.

All questions and requests for information should be directed to the diocesan attorney, James Birnbaum, at 608-784-1605.

 Diocese of La Crosse