TUCSON, Ariz. (AP) - A pedophile priest has been sentenced to prison for abusing three Tucson teenagers.
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The victims testified that Underwood manipulated them, got them drunk, showed them pornography and molested them.
In a presentence report, Underwood said he was sorry for his actions.
“I wish my victims would know how truly sorry I am and how none of what happened was their fault.”
Underwood was indicted in 2006 and suspended from the priesthood. Bishop Gerald F. Kicanas of the Roman Catholic diocese of Tucson said after Underwood’s guilty plea in May that he will never again serve as a priest. He remains free on bail.
In court before sentencing Monday, 15 supporters voiced doubts about his guilt, but Underwood apologized to his victims and asked for their forgiveness.
Pima County Superior Court Judge Richard Nichols sentenced Underwood to 10 years in prison and lifetime probation as a registered sex offender.
One victim said it has been a long ordeal. He is not being identified because he is a victim of sexual abuse.
“I’m hoping we can get this behind us,” the man said.
Underwood, who was ordained in 1980, served at St. Odilia Catholic Church from 1983 through 1986, said Tucson diocese spokesman Fred Allison.
After serving for several months in 1987 in Casa Grande, Underwood volunteered for the Archdiocese of the Military at the end of 1987, Allison said.
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