Authorities say Father Andrew Showers, 37, believed he was messaging a 14-year-old girl, but "Abby" was actually an undercover police officer. He was charged in August with attempted sexual assault of a child, attempted child enticement and attempted use of a computer for a sex crime.
On Friday, the Diocese of Madison announced it received word from the Waupaca County District Attorney's Office that Showers has also been charged with two counts of possession of child pornography. These new charges are a result of digital evidence found on electronic devices seized from Showers following his arrest, officials said.
Showers pleaded not guilty to the original charges and posted a $10,000 bond. He was previously removed from active ministry.
In his statement, Bishop Donald Hying called the new charges "deeply troubling."
"Any situation involving the abuse, exploitation or victimization of children is profoundly grievous and stands in direct contradiction to everything we believe and uphold as Catholics," Hying said. "The safety, dignity and well-being of children and young people must always be protected. The abuse or exploitation of minors must never be tolerated, especially within the Church."
I want to reiterate my commitment to transparent and timely communication about this case. Although the diocese is not involved in the proceedings or Fr. Showers’ legal defense, I will continue to share information with you as it becomes available. We are cooperating fully with the civil authorities, and the restrictions placed on Fr. Showers last year remain in effect while the legal proceedings are ongoing.
I also wish to remind you that any allegations of sexual misconduct against minors by priests, deacons or other church personnel should immediately be brought to the attention of law enforcement officials, as well as the Diocese of Madison's Sexual Misconduct Question and Reporting Line at 608-821-3162.
Finally, I ask you to join me in praying for all those affected by this painful situation. May the Lord bring light, healing, and justice in the midst of this sorrow.
According to the criminal complaint, the Clintonville Police Department created the fake online profile for a 14-year-old girl named Abby who was seeking male companionship. Showers responded with details of the sexual acts he would like to perform with her and allegedly sent explicit photos to her.
Showers then made arrangements for the two to meet at a Clintonville park, noting he had reserved a hotel room. When he got there, police arrested him.
"After being properly Mirandized, Andrew drafted a letter addressed to 'Abby' wherein he apologized for his actions, stating that he had put his 'own desires, wants and brokenness before [her] wellbeing... and I am sorry that you were the recipient and victim of my poor decisions and selfish pursuits,'" the complaint states.