In a statement to the media by the Archdiocese of St Paul and Minneapolis on December 17th, it was announced that Archbishop John Nienstedt is stepping down from his post after allegations of inappropriate touching were brought against him. Reportedly, the victim is a young boy who was touched inappropriately on the buttocks during a group photo session that was preceded by a confirmation ceremony in 2009. Though Nienstedt denied the allegation, he voluntarily chose to step down from his ministry while investigations continue to take place.

Nienstedt had also apologized publicly on December 16th while addressing the media about sexual abuse allegations that have been haunting many priests within the diocese.

According to the archdiocese, once he was informed about the incident, he instructed the church officials to contact the police immediately. The church also claimed on its official website that they would fully cooperate with the law enforcement. However, the police in St Paul have said that the archdiocese has not cooperated with any of the investigations.