Prosecutors seek life sentence for Missouri priest

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) - Federal prosecutors say they will seek a life sentence for a Catholic priest accused of producing child pornography in Missouri.

Prosecutors disclosed their sentencing goals Thursday in a motion asking that the Rev. Shawn Ratigan remain in jail until his trial.

The Kansas City Star reports (http://bit.ly/qW8NgL ) that Ratigan pleaded not guilty Thursday in his first federal court appearance on 13 counts of production, attempted production and possession of child pornography.

Because Ratigan hasn't been able to make bond on three Clay County counts of possessing child pornography, U.S. Magistrate Judge Sarah W. Hays said she would defer not rule on the detention motion unless it became necessary.

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Information from: The Kansas City Star, http://www.kcstar.com