A retired priest of the Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis, Father Michael Ince, has been placed on a leave of absence from priestly ministry while an allegation of abusing a minor in the 1980s is investigated.

“In accordance with archdiocesan policies, the archdiocesan Office of Ministerial Standards and Safe Environment promptly reported this to law enforcement, who advised that they are investigating the allegation,” Archbishop Bernard Hebda said in a statement Sept. 26. “Once law enforcement completes its investigation the archdiocese will follow its processes to determine next steps.

“Also, in accordance with archdiocesan practice, Father Ince is on a leave of absence and will not exercise priestly ministry during the investigation,” the archbishop continued. “This is a standard, precautionary measure to promote safety and to ensure that a fair and thorough investigation may be conducted. I ask that no one prejudge this situation. Once the investigation determines what has happened, appropriate actions will be taken. Please pray for all involved in this situation.”

Father Ince, 86, was ordained in 1964. He began his ministry with assignments as an assistant priest of St. John the Baptist in Hugo, Nativity of the Blessed Virgin in Bloomington and Immaculate Conception in Columbia Heights, where in 1972, he was named vicar econome.

In 1974, Father Ince was assigned as assistant priest of Holy Spirit in St. Paul. In 1976, he was assigned as assistant priest of St. Agnes in St. Paul until 1991, when he was named pastor of Holy Trinity in Waterville and parochial administrator of St. Andrew in Elysian, ministering to both parishes. He retired from active ministry in July 2021.