(WXYZ) — A metro Detroit priest is being investigated for sexual abuse of a minor and has been restricted from all public ministry pending the outcome of the canonical process.
The Archdiocese of Detroit said they recently received an allegation against Father Joseph (Jack) Baker, 57, involving sexual abuse of a minor. The allegation dates back to the early years of his ministry. He is currently a pastor at St. Perpetua Parish in Waterford.
According to the archdiocese, the allegation was immediately reported to the Michigan Attorney General's Office, and the archdiocese has been informed by the AG that it should proceed with appropriate actions prescribed by church law.
While Baker is restricted from ministry, he is prohibited from representing himself as a priest, wearing clerical attire and exercising any form of church.
Anyone with information of sexual abuse by clergy or other church can contact local law enforcement and/or the Michigan Attorney General’s Office at (844) 324-3374 or aginvestigations@michigan.gov. Individuals also may contact the Archdiocese of Detroit by visiting protect.aod.org [aod.us12.list-manage.com], calling the toll-free, 24/7 victim assistance line at (866) 343-8055 or by emailing vac@aod.org.
Baker was educated at Michigan Tech and ordained in 1993.
His assignment history includes:
- 1993-1996: Associate Pastor, St. Hugo of the Hills Parish, Bloomfield Hills
- 1996-1997: Associate Pastor, Sacred Heart Parish, Dearborn
- 1996-1997: Campus Minister, Wayne State Medical School Campus Ministry, Detroit
- 1997-2008: Pastor, St. Mary Parish, Wayne
- 2003-2004: Administrator, Ss. Kevin and Norbert Parish, Inkster
- 2003-2008: Administrator, Holy Family Parish, Inkster
- 2011: Administrator, St. Benedict Parish, Waterford
- 2008-present: Pastor, St. Perpetua Parish, Waterford
