Brick Priest Released on Bail on Sex Assault Charges

A popular Brick Township priest who was arrested on criminal sexual contact charges is free on $75-thousand dollars bail. Reports say, it's believed that supportive parishioners from the Visitation Church in Brick collected money for 64-year-old Marukudiyil Velan, also known as 'Father Chris,' to make bail Thursday. Sources tell Asbury Park Press the Adjunct Priest is in shock over the allegations that he fondled a mother and teenage son from the congregation while visiting their home.