BROOKLYN, N.Y. - The Vatican has ordered Cardinal Timothy Dolan to investigate sexual abuse allegations against the head of the Brooklyn Diocese.

Bishop Nicholas DiMarzio was accused of molesting an 11-year-old altar boy at a church in Jersey City in the 1970s.

DiMarzio denied those allegations.

The New York Archdiocese says Cardinal Dolan will rely on outside professional forensic investigators to assist his efforts. But the victim's lawyer is calling for the bishop to be suspended.

The Brooklyn Diocese said in a statement, "Bishop DiMarzio is recognized as a leader in the fight against sexual abuse in the Catholic Church. He looks forward to the investigation of the allegation made against him and having his good name cleared and restored."

DiMarzio has led the Brooklyn Diocese since 2003, overseeing Catholic churches in Brooklyn and Queens. 

Last year, Pope Francis chose him to investigate sexual assault allegations in the Buffalo diocese.