Local Priest Charged with Sexual Misconduct

According to the criminal complaint, on August 1, 2024, the St. Cloud Police Department began investigating a report of sexual abuse involving Aaron John Kuhn, 47, a priest with the Catholic Church, after receiving a tip from an individual regarding alleged abuse.

An adult female reported that Kuhn engaged in multiple acts of sexual contact and sexual penetration with her between November 2019 and October 2022. At the time, Kuhn was providing the woman with spiritual direction. The reported abuse occurred on multiple occasions and in several locations across Wadena, Stearns, and Benton counties.

The woman provided details indicating that Kuhn allegedly used his position as a spiritual advisor to manipulate and pressure her into engaging in sexual acts. She reported that the abuse escalated over time and that she repeatedly asked Kuhn to stop.

Law enforcement interviewed several witnesses affiliated with the church, who confirmed that Kuhn acknowledged having sexual contact with the woman during the time he was serving as her spiritual advisor.

Following the allegations, Bishop Patrick Neary placed Kuhn on administrative leave. In a letter to parishioners in June 2024, Neary wrote that Kuhn “will undergo a professional evaluation for personal and spiritual renewal.”

A follow-up letter in July 2024 stated that Kuhn “recently completed his professional assessment program, and the facility has recommended that he enter a residential treatment program,” before discussing next steps following treatment.

A letter issued in December 2024 noted that Kuhn had completed treatment and that “he and his care team have created a wellness plan to provide him with ongoing support into the future.” At that time, Kuhn resigned as pastor of the parishes he served “in order to better focus on his continued health..."

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