St. Paul police to reopen two cases related to Archdiocese investigation

The Ramsey County Attorney's Office has asked the St. Paul Police Department to reopen two cases related to its investigation into the Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis.

A St. Paul police spokesman confirmed the cases pertain to Archbishop John Nienstedt, and Curtis Wehmeyer, a St. Paul priest serving time in prison for child sexual abuse.

Explore the full investigation Clergy abuse, cover-up and crisis in the Twin Cities Catholic church

Political Coverage Powered by You

Your gift today creates a more connected Minnesota. MPR News is your trusted resource for election coverage, reporting and breaking news. With your support, MPR News brings accessible, courageous journalism and authentic conversation to everyone - free of paywalls and barriers. Your gift makes a difference.

Ramsey County Attorney John Choi announced earlier this month there was insufficient evidence to charge the archbishop, who in December was accused of groping a boy several years ago at a public event.

Nienstedt has denied any wrongdoing.

Choi's Office recently asked St. Paul police to reopen these cases as they review all the reports once again, police spokesman Howie Padilla said.

A spokesperson from the Ramsey County Attorney's office said the re-examination is not specific to Archbishop Nienstedt, but the cases have other elements that require further investigation.

The Archdiocese has not commented on the development.