 A man who says he was abused by a priest 46 years ago was suing Bishop Michael Hepner in the Diocese of Crookston in Minnesota, alleging that Bishop coerced him in deciding a document saying the abuse never happened. The lawsuit says Ronald Vasek was exploring whether to become a deacon in 2010 when he reported the abuse to Hepner. He says the Bishop advised him not to tell anyone. It also alleges Hepner suppressed his report by threatening to make it hard for him to become a deacon and threatening Vasek's son's career as a priest. Attorney Jeff Anderson says it's the first time a U.S. Bishop has been sued individually for coercion. The Diocese vicar general, Monsignor Michael Foltz did not immediately return a call from the Associated Press seeking comment. If you've enjoyed this segment of Lakeland News, please consider making a tax-deductible contribution to Lakeland Public Television.