Press Release  DA Seeks To Hold Former Haverhill Priest As Sexually Dangerous

Salem, Massachusetts — Please be advised that the Essex District Attorney's Office has filed a petition alleging that Ronald H. Paquin, 72, is a Sexually Dangerous Person.  The first of two probable cause hearings is scheduled for tomorrow July 31, 2015 at noon before Judge Timothy Feeley in Salem Superior Court. 

Paquin, a former priest in Haverhill, pleaded guilty to 3 counts of rape of a child in December of 2002 and was sentenced to 12-15 years in state prison.  The rapes took place in Haverhill between 1989 and 1992, beginning when the victim was 12 years old.

If the Judge finds probable cause, Paquin will be held for an additional 60 day period for an in-depth evaluation by two qualified examiners to determine whether or not he is sexually dangerous.  The Essex District Attorney's Office may proceed to trial if at least one of the qualified examiners concludes that he is sexually dangerous. 

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