Sunday, June 09, 2024

Mobile priest pleads not guilty to inappropriately touching, kissing woman

A Mobile priest pleaded not guilty to charges that he inappropriately touched a woman and forced a kiss on her in two separate incidents in march.

David Tokarz is charged with sexual misconduct and harassing communications. Tokarz was pastor at Our Savior Catholic Church on Cody Road in west Mobile.

The alleged victim says the 74-year-old clergyman hugged her on March 2 and when he let her go, he rubbed and patted her breasts. In another incident, the woman alleges he kissed her without her consent during a meeting in the rectory, where priests live.

Attorney Jeff Deen, who represents Tokarz, maintains his client is innocent.

“Father Tokarz has been a priest for many years. He is well thought of in our community and we are looking to the allegations,” Deen said.