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Two priests put on leave amid abuse complaints

Two local priests have been placed on administrative leave following complains of abuse. The Buffalo Diocese on Monday announced Father Arthur Smith of Blessed Mother Teresa of Calcutta Parish in Depew and Father Samuel Venne, a retired priest serving at St. Stephen's PariSh on Grand Island, have been put on leave.

The Diocese says it is investigating the complaints and the action does not imply any determination as to their truth or falsity. It does not say whether the abuse complaints involved children.

Over the past several weeks, dozens of area clergy, both living and deceased, have been publicly named as alleged abusers. The Diocese has since announced a compensation fund for victims.

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