Father steps aside during police investigation

Moodus, Conn. (WTNH) - State Police have launched a criminal investigation involving a church in Moodus.

Investigators aren't saying specifically what they're looking for but say the investigation involving Saint Bridget Church started in December.

Reverend Gregoire Fluet's name is on the sign but he's not at his parish. He's on a leave of absence while state police investigate.

A spokesperson for the Diocese of Norwich tells News 8 the investigation began in December when concerns were brought up by one parishioner at St. Bridget of Kildare Church in Moodus. Father Gregoire Fluet who oversees all finances in the parish stepped aside to allow for the investigation by State Police.

"He's been fair to everybody, very caring in the past and it surprises me," said parishioner Ann Poissant.

The diocese says it is fully cooperating with the investigation and Father Fluet is currently on a leave of absence.

With Father Fluet stepping aside the financial officer at the Diocese has taken over all financial matters at the church and is providing state police with whatever is needed.

"I've been a parishioner there for 20 years and he's always been an upstanding fellow and well respected by the community," said Poissant.

Poissant hopes for the best for her pastor and her parish.

"I think everybody just has questions," she said. "They'd like to know what's going on."

The doors of this church remain open Thursday. Folks at the diocese say they are anxiously awaiting Father Fluet's return.