Convicted Moncton priest could face trial on new sex charge next year

Former priest Yvon Arsenault, already serving four years behind bars for molesting boys, could be tried in the new year on a new allegation of sexual indecency.

Arsenaultwas sent to prison last year after admitting to molesting nine boys in the 1970s. Since then, a 10th man has come forward with allegations.

• Convicted Moncton ex-priest will face preliminary inquiry on new sex charge next month

Arsenault is now accused of indecently assaulting amale in Shediac betweenJanuary1970 and December 1973.

Arsenault has pleaded not guilty.

A preliminary inquiry was held today in Moncton court, and a judge ruled there was sufficient evidence to send the case to trial. Testimony from the hearing is covered by a publication ban.

A date for the trial will be chosen in the coming weeks.

Arsenault and the Moncton Archdiocese are also facing civil lawsuits related to his sex crimes.