June 9, 2003

NEWS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
For More Information, Contact:
Bud Bunce (503) 233-8373
bbunce@archdpdx.org

Statement concerning Father Michael Sprauer

        Father Sprauer emphatically denies the allegations of misconduct thirty years
ago as contained in this lawsuit. Further, allegations that the Archdiocese of Portland
had knowledge of a "pattern of ongoing sexual misconduct directed at children" by
Father Sprauer are false and unfounded. Nonetheless, the Archdiocese of Portland will
follow established policies and place Father Sprauer on administrative leave pending
further information in this matter.

        Father Michael Sprauer has been a priest of the Archdiocese of Portland since
1972. Father Sprauer had a distinguished career as a Chaplain and an employee of the
Oregon State Department of Corrections for 25 years beginning in 1972. He was
employed by the State at the MacLaren Youth Correctional Facility from 1972 – 1975.
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