Ex-priest among 5 charged in federal drug probe

BRIDGEPORT, Conn. (WTNH) -- The arrest of a former Bridgeport priest has come as a shock to those who knew him. The former monsignor is accused of being part of a drug ring that was selling meth.

As a priest, folks came to 61-year-old Kevin Wallin in despair. News 8 spoke to him two years ago when two Bridgeport firefighters died but now police say addicts also sought his help, looking for drugs.

"The parish is obviously reacting with sadness and hurt and some difficulty," said Father Peter Lennox the administrator of the Cathedral Parish.

A federal grand jury indicted the former Roman Catholic priest and four others saying they shipped methamphetamines from California to Connecticut from September to January. Then, they're accused of selling them to undercover agents.

Police say evidence includes wiretaps and surveillance.

"People are entering into deep and ferverent prayer for him and for us and that's always a good thing," said Father Lennox.

The Diocese of Bridgeport says Wallin resigned from St. Augustines in June of 2011 for health and personal issues and they hope to move forward the parish foward from this.

"We're here to bring healing and to help people to grow in their relationship with god and likewise therefore in the relationship in the community at large," said Father Lennox.

If found guilty, he could face a minimum of 10 years in prison.