MINNEAPOLIS (AP) - The lead prosecutor in St. Louis County says the Diocese of Duluth should have gone to police immediately after learning a priest was accused of sexually abusing a child.

County Attorney Mark Rubin says the diocese waited 15 months before notifying authorities that the Rev. Cornelius Kelleher was accused of abusing a girl years ago.

The alleged victim is now an adult and went to church officials in 2012. Rubin says the diocese removed Kelleher from ministry in 2013.

Rubin says two more women have since told him Kelleher also abused them years ago.

Rubin says he's met with diocesan officials, and they now realize they must promptly report allegations.

A diocese spokesman did not immediately return messages seeking comment. Kelleher has an unlisted number and could not be reached.

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