CONNECTICUT: Feds Bust Catholic Priest In National Crystal Meth Ring

Father Kevin Wallin, formerly of the Catholic Diocese of Bridgeport, has been busted by federal drug agents in Connecticut for his alleged role in a national crystal meth distribution ring.

He went from pastor to pusher. A Connecticut priest was part of a cross-country drug ring that smuggled crystal meth from California into the well-heeled hamlets of Fairfield County, federal prosecutors said. Monsignor Kevin Wallin, a former pastor of St. Augustine Parish in Bridgeport, sold meth to undercover narcs six times since September 2012, the U.S. Attorney's Office said Wednesday. The 61-year-old former church leader and four others were indicted by a grand jury on six counts of possession with intent to distribute. If convicted, he could face up to 20 years in prison and a $2 million fine. Federal investigators arrested the group on Jan. 3. The Diocese of Bridgeport expressed "shock" at the news, saying many in Fairfield County regarded him as "a gifted, accomplished and compassionate priest," according to a statement.

According to the diocese, Wallin has been on sabbatical for the last eighteen months and they had been unable to reach him during that time.  They add that they "stand ready to help him through the difficult days ahead." (Tipped by JMG reader Todd)