The state’s highest court on Monday (Apr. 28) reinstated the landmark child-endangerment conviction of a Roman Catholic monsignor who was the first U.S. church official ever prosecuted over his handling of sex abuse complaints.

“The Pennsylvania Supreme Court upheld the 2012 felony conviction of Monsignor William Lynn for endangering an altar boy abused by a priest who had been transferred to his parish despite earlier complaints.

“Defense lawyers have long argued that Lynn, as secretary for clergy, was not responsible for the child’s welfare under Pennsylvania law at the time. However, the state Supreme Court in a 4-1 ruling disagreed, potentially sending the 64-year-old Lynn back to prison.”

By Maryclaire Dale, Associated Press, on ABCNews.go.com — Click here to read the rest of this story.