Seaford pastor charged with forcible touching

Police say a Seaford pastor was arrested last week and charged with forcibly touching a 43-year-old female parishioner. According to court papers obtained by News 12 Long Island, 58-year-old Ronald Klose,

News 12 Staff

Mar 31, 2009, 2:15 AM

Updated 5,684 days ago

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Police say a Seaford pastor was arrested last week and charged with forcibly touching a 43-year-old female parishioner.
According to court papers obtained by News 12 Long Island, 58-year-old Ronald Klose, the pastor of Our Redeemer Lutheran Church "approached the victim from behind and thrust his pelvis into the victim's buttocks." Authorities believe the alleged incident occurred at the church's Oktoberfest celebration.
The court papers also say there is a video of the victim complaining to her husband about the alleged incident, as well as a letter of apology from Klose to the woman. The church's attorney had no details about the video or letter.
Klose has been the pastor at Our Redeemer for 13 years and in the ministry for 30 years. Church administrators say they are supporting Klose in this matter and have begun their own investigation. The church released a statement that since learning of the alleged incident, Klose will not be allowed alone with any members of the church unless there is a third, adult party present.
Klose was released on bail. An order of protection issued prevents him from contacting the alleged victim.