The area priest accused of sexual misconduct has filed a lawsuit against three plaintiffs with one of them being the Catholic Diocese of Youngstown.

21 News first reported on the lawsuit Thursday night, and we have since obtained a copy of the complaint.

The lawsuit was filed on behalf of Reverend Denis G. Bouchard, who was placed on leave almost a year ago after allegations of sexual misconduct with a boy between the ages of 9 and 11.

According to the complaint, attorneys on behalf of Reverend Denis G. Bouchard filed the complaint accusing the defendants of slander, libel, and defamation.

The defamation section of the complaint states that the defendant "defamed the reputation and character" of Bouchard. That section also says the defamatory conduct was intended or reckless.

Attorneys for Bouchard also accused the defendants of slander and libel, stating that the defendants knowingly published false statements alleging that Bouchard engaged in inappropriate behavior.

The complaint asks for injunctive relief from the Catholic Diocese of Youngstown and requests a formal written rescindment of the false allegations along with full reinstatement into the Catholic Diocese of Youngstown.

According to the document, Bouchard's attorneys are asking for the following relief:

• Enter judgment that defendants have violated Ohio law as set forth
• Award the Plaintiff compensatory damages in an amount in excess of $25,000
• Award the Plaintiff punitive damages in an amount in excess of $25,000
• Award Plaintiff injunctive relief of full reinstatement into the Catholic Diocese of Youngstown
• Award Plaintiff his attorney's fees, pre, and post-judgment interest and costs
• Award Plaintiff, such other relief as the Court, deems proper, just and equitable