After a monthlong investigation, a Canadian priest assisting on a seasonal basis at St. John’s Episcopal Church in Clearwater since 2004 has been arrested in Newfoundland, accused of sexual misconduct with a minor.

The Rev. James Beaton was arrested April 29 by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police’s Major Crimes Unit on one count of sexual assault and one count of sexual exploitation.

Bishop David Torraville of the Diocese of Central Newfoundland told diocesan officials in Southwest Florida in mid-March that he had received a written statement from a person under the age of 21 alleging improper conduct by Beaton and that Beaton’s license to function as a priest was being suspended until an investigation was complete. Beaton’s license in Southwest Florida was suspended at the same time.

Police would not officially release his name in order to protect the identity of the young person involved, only saying they are continuing to investigate. However, sources close to the case have identified Beaton as the suspect.

The alleged assaults took place over two years between January 2005 and December 2007 in Gander, Grand Falls-Windsor, Daniel’s Harbour and Beaton’s home town of Norris Arm North, police said.

The Rev. Glad McCurtain, rector of St. John’s in Clearwater, said RCMP investigators contacted her in April and asked questions about Beaton. She said she had not received any complaints or suspicions about Beaton from her parish.

Beaton was released from custody shortly after his arrest, RCMP Sgt. Wayne Newell told The Southern Cross, on the condition he have no contact with the alleged victim or witnesses. Beaton is scheduled to be arraigned in provincial court in Gander on July 8.

—Jim DeLa