Hudson priest charged with theft

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A former St. Patrick’s Parish priest, alleged to have a gambling problem, has been charged with felony theft in St. Croix County Circuit Court.

One felony count of theft was filed against Daniel J. Dahlberg, 68, Superior, April 4. Dahlberg was scheduled for an initial appearance at 1 p.m., May 12 before Judge Eric J. Lundell.

The criminal complaint alleged Dahlberg took some $10,800 from a charity account at St. Patrick’s that he had sole control over. Dahlberg served as pastor from August 2009 until March 21, 2011. In August 2009, he began writing and endorsing checks for personal gain.

A $10,800 shortfall was determined through an internal audit and Dahlberg admitted to investigators he took the money from the account, the complaint said.

A letter distributed to church members March 20 stated, “It is very likely that this misconduct is the result of a serious gambling addiction which has led to personal financial issues and impaired Father Dan’s judgment.” The letter was signed by several church board trustees.

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