Maryville, TN – The Diocese of Knoxville confirmed on Wednesday that Fr. Miguel Valez, a priest at St. Patrick Catholic Church in Morristown, has been placed on administrative leave following accusations of violating church policy. The move comes shortly after the diocese announced that Fr. Joseph Reed, the pastor of St. John Neumann Catholic Church and School, was also placed on leave for a similar issue.
According to diocesan officials, Fr. Valez was placed on leave as part of standard protocol while law enforcement conducts an investigation into the allegations. The Diocese stated that, following the completion of the external investigation, it will carry out its own internal review in accordance with church policy. No further details regarding the nature of the allegations have been disclosed at this time.
A representative from the Tennessee Department of Children’s Services confirmed that the agency is involved in the case but emphasized that no specific individuals have been named in any formal case at this point.
“We are following the situation closely,” the representative said. “At this stage, the department is reviewing the circumstances, but no formal investigation has been initiated against any individual.”
The decision to place both priests on leave is consistent with the diocese’s commitment to maintaining a safe environment for all parishioners, particularly minors, and ensuring that any concerns are thoroughly addressed.
Fr. Valez and Fr. Reed have both denied any wrongdoing, and the diocesan statement emphasized the importance of upholding the principles of due process during the ongoing investigations.
The Diocese of Knoxville has faced similar situations in recent years as part of a broader effort to improve transparency and accountability in the wake of nationwide concerns over clergy misconduct.
As investigations continue, both priests will remain on leave until further updates are provided by law enforcement and the diocese.
