A Port Arthur priest is under investigation by the Port Arthur Police Department and Child Protective Services following an allegation at St. Catherine Catholic School.

Bishop Curtis Guillory of the Diocese of Beaumont issued a statement regarding the allegations.

“The Diocese of Beaumont is committed to fostering a safe, comfortable and positive environment for all whom we serve. We are deeply concerned to learn that a little more than a week ago Child Protective Services and the Port Arthur Police initiated an investigation into an allegation at St. Catherine School in Port Arthur, TX,” according to the statement. “The allegation is against Fr. David Placette, pastor of St. Catherine Church. Keeping in mind the interests of all involved, and in accord with the norms of the U.S. Bishops’ “Charter for the Protection of Young People,” I have placed Fr. Placette on administrative leave from all priestly ministry, pending both civil and ecclesiastical investigations into the matter. Because the matter is now under investigation, I am unable to provide additional information at this time.”

Shari Pulliam, media specialist with the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services, said school investigations are confidential. In cases like this at the conclusion of the investigation Child Protective services will send their findings to the school and Texas Education Agency.

Placette became pastor at St. Catherine Church in July 2013, according to information from the church’s website.

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