NEW : District attorney says an appeal is likely . The landmark trial marked the first time U.S. prosecutors had charged not just the priests who allegedly committed abuses , but also church leaders for failing to stop them . William Lynn , 62 , was the first Catholic priest convicted of covering up child abuse crimes . District attorney finds lower court violated laws on child endangerment . Judge calls decision a ` ` very technical reading of the law , '' website said .
NEW : District attorney says an appeal is likely . William Lynn , 62 , was the first Catholic priest convicted of covering up child abuse crimes . District attorney finds lower court violated laws on child endangerment . Judge calls decision a ` ` very technical reading of the law , '' website said .