WORCESTER, Mass. — The Diocese of Worcester confirms it has now received three complaints alleging illegal activity by the food director at a soup kitchen.

Billy Riley, who's known for being an advocate for the homeless, is on leave from his job at St. Johns Food for the Poor.

The Diocese on Friday said it had retained attorney Robert J. Hennigan, Jr., of the Law Office of Robert J. Hennigan, Jr., to investigate the allegations. Hennigan "has extensive experience in independent investigations of municipal, for profit and non-profit organizations," the Diocese said in a statement.

"Attorney Hennigan has no professional or advisory affiliation with the Diocese of Worcester. No timeline can be projected, but all efforts will be taken to be as timely as possible," the statement added. "The St. John Food for the Poor Program continues to serve its clientele six days per week to assure continued food stability."

The Diocese said it received its first complaint on March 11 to its victim's assistance coordinator.

In its own statement, LIFT, or Living in Freedom Together, said Riley was enabled by the church to use the soup kitchen as a "hunting ground to find vulnerable women to buy."

Worcester Police said Riley is not currently facing any charges.

A request for comment from Riley was not immediately returned.