BishopAccountability.org
 
 

Bishop John B. McCormack
Auxiliary Bishop Francis J. Christian
Manchester NH

Before becoming bishop of the Manchester diocese in 1998, McCormack handled the Boston archdiocese’s sexual abuse complaints during an era that included Geoghan and Shanley. McCormack’s modus operandi was to send abusers to treatment centers and then to poorly supervised "restricted ministries." The results were disastrous. See our detailed assessment of Bishop McCormack's role.

An investigation by the NH Attorney General, prompted by revelations in Boston during early 2002, uncovered evidence that Auxiliary Bishop Christian, while managing sexually abusive priests for the Manchester diocese, misled victims and even a state probation officer. He served under Bishops Odore J. Gendron and Leo E. O'Neil and was named auxiliary bishop in 1996. He handled abuse allegations for the diocese 1977–96. See a detailed report on Bishop Christian's role. See also {1}{2}{3}

* New in April 2005: We have prepared an updated list of priests publicly accused of sexual abuse who have worked in the diocese of Manchester (including Gordon MacRae), with photographs, links to documents, and news reports.

* New in March 2005: The Manchester diocese avoided criminal indictments in December 2002 by agreeing to periodic audits by the state Attorney General’s office. More than two years later, the audits have not occurred. The state and church differ over the audit’s scope and the matter is in court. See below for news reports and other information on the audit dispute.

* See below for McCormack's supervision of accused priests in Boston, sources of information (including the 9,000-page Manchester Archives and an informative Plaintiffs' Memorandum), a comprehensive archive of media coverage, Web sites, and recommended articles.

ACCUSED PRIESTS WHO WORKED IN NEW HAMPSHIRE PARISHES AND SCHOOLS

In March 2005, NH Catholic activist Carolyn Disco and BishopAccountability.org announced this updated list of priests publicly accused of sexual abuse who have worked in the Manchester diocese. The list was compiled in response to a January 2005 written request from SNAP that has not been acknowledged by the diocese to date. For additional information, see our notes to the table.

Argencourt, Roger Religious Order – Brothers of the Sacred Heart - The NH AG has released a 74-page investigative file on Argencourt.
- Defendant Dead but Lawsuit Continues (September 25, 2002)
- Teacher Accused of Molestation Was Being Investigated in R.I., by J.M. Hirsch (October 1, 2002)

Aube, Paul

Manchester Diocesan - The NH AG's report provided a detailed description of the Aube case, with references to the diocesan and investigative files.
- The NH AG has released hundreds of pages of diocesan and investigative files on the Aube case. {1} {2} {3} {4} {5} {6} {7} {8} {9} {10} {11} {12} {13} {14} {15} {16} {17}
- A summary of Aube's file, apparently prepared by the diocese for the NH AG in early 2002, states that in 1981 the diocese received an allegation from a parent that Aube had abused her minor son. In 1984 the diocese received another allegation of abuse by Aube of a child.
- Aube was one of 15 priests whose names were turned over by the diocese to state prosecutors on 2/15/02. See also.
- In 2002, civil suits were filed accusing Aube of abusing one boy 1970–72 at St. Mary's in Claremont and another 1979–86 in Rochester. See also.
- Aube was included in a settlement announced 11/26/02. See also.
- Rev. Paul Aube: Priest Not Stopped after Many Alleged Violations, by Michael Cousineau (March 4, 2003)
- Molesting NH Priest Defrocked by Pope, by Mark Hayward (August 13, 2005)
- Assignments: Born 1941. Ordained 1970. St. Mary's in Claremont (1970-73); Guardian Angel in Berlin (1973-75); St. Aloysius in Nashua (1975-76); Holy Rosary in Rochester (1976-81); Concord Hospital and Nursing Homes (chaplain 1981-83); lived at St. Peter's in Concord (1981-83); Elliot Hospital and Manor St. Georges (chaplain and lived at Manor 1983-93); administrative leave (1993-94). Right to public ministry removed (1994) when Aube refused residential treatment. Source: diocese's file summary in AG archive.
Authier, Charles Manchester Diocesan - The NH AG has released a letter from the diocese's lawyer, notifying the AG that a 10/10/02 settlement of sexual abuse claims included Authier and seven other priests. See detailed article on the settlement, which described repeated sexual abuse by Authier of a 12-year-old altar boy at St. Charles church and school in Dover, including oral sex.
Beaulieu, Guy Religious Order – Brothers of the Sacred Heart - The NH AG has released a 22-page investigative file of diocesan and investigative documents on Beaulieu.
- In July 2002, a suit was filed alleging that Beaulieu molested a 10-year-old boy at Camp Fatima (1975-76).
- Beaulieu was included in a settlement announced 11/26/02. See also.

Boisselle, Aimé


Manchester Diocesan - The NH AG has released a 60-page file of diocesan documents on Boisselle.
- Boisselle was included in a settlement announced 11/26/02.
- Accused Priest Served at Ste. Marie, by Katherine McQuaid (May 21, 2002)
- Files Reveal a Lesser-Known, Sordid Side of Boisselle, by Amy McConnell (March 4, 2003)
Bombardier, Wilfred Manchester Diocesan - The NH AG has released a 26-page file of diocesan documents on Bombardier.
- Bombardier was included in a settlement announced 11/26/02.
Boulanger, Albert Manchester Diocesan - The NH AG's report provided a detailed description of the Boulanger case, with references to the diocesan and investigative files.
- The NH AG has released 106 pages of diocesan and investigative files on Boulanger {1} {2}.
- A summary of Boulanger's file, apparently prepared by the diocese for the NH AG in early 2002, states that in 1971 the diocese received an allegation from a Nashua woman that her son had been sexually abused repeatedly by Boulanger in church after Mass, in his rectory bedroom, in the priest's car, and in a cottage.
- Boulanger was one of 15 priests whose names were turned over by the diocese to state prosecutors on 2/15/02. See also.
- Rev. Albert Boulanger: Late Priest Reassigned Twice but Kept Ministry, by Kathryn Marchocki (March 4, 2003)
- Boulanger was included in a settlement announced 11/26/02. See also.
- Assignments: Born 1929. Ordained 1962. St. Joseph's in Salem (1962); St. Mary's in Claremont (1962-64); Immaculate Heart of Mary in Concord (1964-65); St. Joseph's in Berlin (1965-67); St. Martin's in Somersworth (1967-68); St. Joseph's in Woodsville (1968-69); St. James in Portsmouth (1969); St. Mary's in Manchester (1969-70); Diocesan Camps (assistant director, Summer 1970); St. Joseph's in Nashua (1970-71); suspended (April-November 1971); Our Lady of the Mountains in North Conway (1971-72, duration unclear, at first a weekend ministry); Mary Mother of the Church in Newton (1972-74); St. Benedict's in Cascade (two weeks in April 1974, then resigned); Sacred Heart in Wilton (?-June 1974); St. Bernard's in Keene (weekend ministry 1974-75); Sacred Heart in Manchester (weekend ministry 1975-76); St. Agnes in Ashland (1976-84); St. Matthew's in Whitefield (1984-87); St. Luke's Institute in Suitland MD (1987); sick leave (1987-89); Holy Rosary in Rochester (1989-?); St. Anthony's in Sanbornville (1989-?); sick leave (?-1991); Manchester Area Nursing Homes (chaplain 1991-2000); Mt. Carmel Home in Manchester (1995-2000); retired (2000). Source: diocese's file summary in AG archive.
Breton, Philip Extern – from Boston - A 1993 complaint alleges that Breton anally raped a minor boy repeatedly in 1957, during a chaplaincy at several hospitals in Boston and Cambridge; two other alleged victims (one in NH) are specifically referred to, as well as "many, many" other alleged victims.
- The NH AG has released a letter from the diocese's lawyer, notifying the AG that a 10/10/02 settlement of sexual abuse claims included Breton and seven other priests. See detailed article on the settlement, which describes Breton's alleged abuse of 4 boys at Assumption church in Tilton. The victims were between 10 and 12 years old.
Bulger, Albion Manchester Diocesan - The NH AG has released 70 pages of diocesan and investigative files on Bulger.
- A summary of Bulger's file, apparently prepared by the diocese for the NH AG in early 2002, states that the diocese received in 2001 an allegation that in 1974 Bulger had sexually assaulted a boy (approximately age 15) and the boy's friend. Bulger was at St. Kathryn's in Hudson at the time.
- Bulger was one of 15 priests whose names were turned over by the diocese to state prosecutors on 2/15/02. See also.
- In July 2002, a suit was filed alleging that Bulger molested an altar boy age 9 to 10 at St. Kathryn's in Hudson (1973-74).
- Bulger was included in a settlement announced 11/26/02. See also.
- Bulger Case Shows Contrasts, by Albert McKeon (March 5, 2003)
- Assignments: Born 1930. Ordained 1956. Holy Angels in Westville (1956-58); American College in Louvain, Belgium (vice-rector 1958-66); American Parish in Brussels, Belgium (1966-69); St. Joseph's Cathedral in Manchester (1969-70); St. Kathryn's in Hudson (1970-76); Mary Queen of Peace in Salem (1976-91); Parish of the Resurrection (1991-2001); St. Luke's Institute in Suitland MD (2001); refused residential treatment and retired (2001). Source: diocese's file summary in AG archive.
Chalifour, Gerard Manchester Diocesan - The NH AG's report provided a detailed description of the Chalifour case, with references to the diocesan and investigative files.
- The NH AG has released hundreds of pages of diocesan and investigative files on Chalifour {1} {2} {3} {4} {5} {6} {7} {8}.
- A summary of Chalifour's file, apparently prepared by the diocese for the NH AG in early 2002, states that in 1993 the diocese received an allegation that Chalifour abused a boy who was in junior high school when the abuse began.
- Chalifour was one of 15 priests whose names were turned over by the diocese to state prosecutors on 2/15/02. See also.
- In 2002, a civil suit was filed accusing Chalifour of assaulting a boy at a camp in 1972, while Chalifour was at St. Peter's in Farmington. See also.
- Chalifour was included in a settlement announced 11/26/02. See also.
- Rev. Gerald Chalifour: AG’s Office Says Abuse Dated Back to 1960s, by Benjamin Kepple (March 4, 2003)
- Assignments: Born 1928. Ordained 1952. St. Martin's in Somersworth (1952-57); Guardian Angel in Berlin (1957-59); St. Charles Orphanage in Rochester (chaplain 1959-60); Sacred Heart in Greenville (1960-62); St. John the Baptist in Suncook (1962-68); St. Kathryn's in Hudson (1968-69); leave of absence (1969-1970); Holy Family in Gorham (1970); St. Peter's in Farmington (1970-76); St. Theresa's in Manchester (pastor 1976-83); leave of absence (1983-84); St. Theresa's in Manchester (1984-85); Catholic Medical Center in Manchester (chaplain 1985-87); St. Charles in Dover (1987); St. Augustine's in Manchester (1987-90); St. Joseph Hospital in Nashua (associate chaplain 1990-91); St. Theresa Manor (temporary chaplain 1991-93); retired (1992); lived in Bishop Peterson Residence (1995-96); lived in Delany Residence (1996- ). Source: diocese's file summary in AG archive.

Connors, Richard

 

Manchester Diocesan - The NH AG has released hundreds of pages of diocesan and investigative files on Connors, whose apartment was allegedly cleared of child pornography and other materials by diocesan officials after his death in compromising circumstances {1} {2} {3} {4} {5}
- Connors was included in a settlement announced 11/26/02.
Constant, Alfred Manchester Diocesan - The NH AG has released a 5-page file of investigative documents on Constant, including a victim's handwritten allegation (sent to the AG in 2002) of abuse in 1952.
- In 2002, civil suits were filed accusing Constant of repeatedly sexually assaulting a girl 1945–48, and molesting a boy 1959–62.
- Constant was included in a settlement announced 11/26/02.

Corriveau, Ronald

 

Manchester Diocesan - Corriveau was included in a settlement announced 11/26/02. See also.
- With Charges against Epping Priest, Allegations against Clergy Continue to Surface, by J.M. Hirsch (March 20, 2002)
-Priest with Nashua Ties Placed on Leave over Allegations, by Stacy Milbouer (March 21, 2002)

Cote, Joseph

Manchester Diocesan - The NH AG has released a 22-page file of diocesan documents on Joseph Cote.
- A summary of Joseph's file, apparently prepared by the diocese for the NH AG in early 2002, states that in 2001 the diocese received an allegation that Joseph Cote abused a 12-year-old altar boy in 1970, at St. Joseph's in Berlin.
- Joseph Cote was one of 15 priests whose names were turned over by the diocese to state prosecutors on 2/15/02. See also.
- Assignments: Born 1923. Ordained 1951. Sacred Heart in Greenville (1956-57); St. Martin's in Somersworth (1957-58); Our Lady of the Mountains Academy in Gorham (chaplain 1958-60); Guardian Angel in Berlin (1960-65); St. Joseph in Berlin (1965-68); St. Anne in Berlin (1968-69); St. Joseph in Berlin (1969-85); St. Vincent de Paul Home in Berlin (chaplain 1985-2000); retired (2000- ). Source: diocese's file summary in AG archive.

Cote, Roland

 

Manchester Diocesan - The NH AG has released 155 pages of diocesan and investigative files on Roland Cote. {1} {2} {3}
- Cote Has Supported Priests Accused of Misconduct, by Lauren Roth (September 28, 2002)
- Priest Leaves Jaffrey after Admitting Affair (November 3, 2002)
- Rev. Cote Files Remain Secret, at Least for Now (March 4, 2003)
- Details of Cote Sexual Relationships Released, by Annmarie Timmins (March 5, 2003)
Cyr, Br. Leon Religious Order – Brothers of the Sacred Heart - Hudson Man Sues, Claiming Abuse at Bishop Guertin HS, by Kathryn Marchocki (October 2, 2003)
Crowe, Thomas Manchester Diocesan - Crowe was one of 5 priests included in a settlement announced 12/19/02.

Densmore, Robert J.

 

Manchester Diocesan - The NH AG's report provided a detailed description of the Densmore case, with references to the diocesan and investigative files.
- The NH AG has released hundreds of pages of diocesan and investigative files on Densmore. {1} {2} {3} {4} {5} {6}
- Densmore was one of 15 priests whose names were turned over by the diocese to state prosecutors on 2/15/02. See also.
- Densmore was included in a settlement announced 11/26/02. See also.
- Rev. Robert Densmore: Remained in Ministry 9 Years after Allegation, by Benjamin Kepple (March 4, 2003)
- Assignments: Born 1932. Ordained 1961. North American College in Rome (1962); Our Lady of Fatima in New London (1962); Holy Angels in Westville (1962-63); St. Matthew's in Whitefield (1963-66);

Dowd, Karl

 

Manchester Diocesan - The NH AG has released a 25-page file of investigative documents on Dowd, including clippings on Dowd and other priests at Camp Fatima.
- Dowd was not on a list of 15 priests given by the diocese to state prosecutors on 2/15/02, although the diocese later admitted it had received a complaint about Dowd in 1971. For the list, see also.
- After the 1971 complaint, the diocese made Dowd head of Camp Fatima in Gilmanton, where he and other priests allegedly abused others.
- Dowd was included in a settlement announced 11/26/02. See also.
- Four Men Allege Sex Abuse at Camp Fatima (May 29, 2002)
- Partial Assignment List: St. Joseph's in Nashua (1967-68); St. Bernard's in Keene (1968-71); Camp Fatima in Gilmanton (1968-90); St. Christopher in Nashua (pastor 1986-2000); St. Stanislaus in Nashua (pastor 1999 and 2000); St. Joseph's in Nashua (2000-2002) Source: NHAG file.
Duval, Eduard Manchester Diocesan - The NH AG has released a 12-page file of investigative and diocesan documents on Duval.
- Partial Assignment List: St. Peter's in Farmington (late 1970s and early 1980s).
Fleming, Mark Manchester Diocesan - The NH AG has released a 100-page file of investigative and diocesan documents on Fleming, including letters from a family whose boys were allegedly abused by him, and details of his treatment at a House of Affirmation facility in Webster Groves MO. {1} {2}
- Four Priests Accused in N.H. Lawsuits, by J.M. Hirsch (April 9, 2002)
- Lawsuit Links Cardinal to Placing Pedophile Priest in Pepperell, Lowell, by Lisa Redmond (April 10, 2002)
- Partial Assignment List: St. John the Evangelist in Hudson (early 1980s); parish in St. Louis archdiocese (mid-1980s).
Fortier, Roger Manchester Diocesan - The NH AG's report provided a detailed description of the Fortier case, with references to the diocesan and investigative files.
- The NH AG has released hundreds of pages of diocesan and investigative files on Fortier. {1} {2} {3} {4} {5} {6} {7} {8} {9} {10} {11} {12} {13} {14} {15} {16}
- Documents, Reports Detail How Complaints Were Handled, by J. M. Hirsch (March 3, 2003)
- Rev. Roger Fortier: Bishop Claims Fortier's Problems Were Unknown, by Nancy Meersman (March 4, 2003)
Fournier, Roger E. Manchester Diocesan - The NH AG has released a 4-page file of investigative documents on Fournier.
Gauthier, Mark Manchester Diocesan - Gauthier was included in a settlement announced 11/26/02.
Groleau, Paul Manchester Diocesan - In 2002, civil suits were filed accusing Groleau of molesting a boy 1969–71 at St. George's in Manchester, and molesting another boy 1969–73 at St. Michael's in Exeter.
- Groleau was included in a settlement announced 11/26/02.

Haller, James

 

Manchester Diocesan - The NH AG has released a memo documenting a sexual abuse complaint by a woman against Haller, as well as a phone message showing that the diocesan Review Board found the allegation that Haller had abused a minor "credible" and that Bishop McCormack accepted the recommendation to remove Haller
- Letter by Haller to parishioners (11/21/02)
- Auburn Priest: 'I Fell in Love,' by Shawne K. Wickham (November 24, 2002)
- Bishop Calls Rev. Haller Situation a Tragedy, by Benjamin Kepple (November 25, 2002)
- Misplaced Sympathy, by Eileen McNamara (November 27, 2002)
Hilary, Antony Muthu Unofficial extern – from Kottar diocese, India - The NH AG has released a 34-page file of diocesan documents on Hilary, including a woman's account of abuse by Hilary after confession.
- Assignment List: St. Patrick's in Manchester (1995) at the invitation of the pastor, Rev. Nicholas Rogers, but without authorization of Bishop O'Neil.

Jannetta, Alfred

 

Manchester Diocesan - The NH AG has released a 19-page file of investigative and diocesan documents on Jannetta.
- Jannetta was included in a settlement announced 11/26/02. See also.
Joyal, Gerald Manchester Diocesan - The NH AG has released a letter from the diocese's lawyer, notifying the AG that a 10/10/02 settlement of sexual abuse claims included Joyal and seven other priests. See detailed article on the settlement.
- Joyal was included in a settlement announced 11/26/02.
- Joyal was one of 5 priests included in a settlement announced 12/19/02.

Labbe, Leo

 

Religious Order – Brothers of the Sacred Heart - BG Head, Order Sued for Abuse, by Jonathan Van Fleet (November 23, 2002)

Laferriere, Raymond

 

Manchester Diocesan - The NH AG's report provided a detailed description of the Laferriere case, with references to the diocesan and investigative files.
- The NH AG has released 220 pages of diocesan and investigative files on Laferriere {1} {2} {3} {4}
- Laferriere was one of 15 priests whose names were turned over by the diocese to state prosecutors on 2/15/02. See also.
- In 2002, a civil suit was filed accusing Laferriere of abusing a boy 1960–61. See also an account of the case that reports two alleged victims of Laferriere from his time at St. Augustine's in Manchester.
- Lack of Law Kept Laferriere from Charges (March 4, 2003)
LaForest, Conrad V. Manchester Diocesan - The NH AG has released an 83-page file of diocesan documents on LaForest.
- LaForest was one of 15 priests whose names were turned over by the diocese to state prosecutors on 2/15/02. See also.
Lamothe, Francis Manchester Diocesan - The NH AG has released a 14-page file of investigative and diocesan documents on Francis Lamothe, including three allegations of abuse. One alleged victim accuses LaMothe of sexually abusing him many times as a boy at the Sacred Heart rectory in Greenville. The abuse allegedly began when the boy was 6 years old and continued until he was 12, and it included several attempts at anal intercourse.
- In 2002, civil suits were filed accusing Francis Lamothe of abusing one boy 1958–63 and another 1979–82. See also for the first case, which alleged abuse while Lamothe was at St. Mary's Claremont. See also suits filed later in 2002, alleging abuse at Sacred Heart in Greenville.
- Francis Lamothe was included in a settlement announced 11/26/02. See also.
- Four Priests Accused in N.H. Lawsuits, by J.M. Hirsch (April 9, 2002)
Lamothe, Harvey Manchester Diocesan - Harvey Lamothe was included in a settlement announced 11/26/02.

Landry, Leo

 

Extern – from Boston

Manchester Diocesan
1965-72
- The NH AG's report provided a detailed description of the Landry case, with references to the diocesan and investigative files.
- The NH AG has released hundreds of pages of diocesan and investigative files on Landry. {1} {2} {3} {4} {5} {6}
- A suit was filed in July 2002 alleging that Landry had abused a 12- or 13-year-old altar boy at Holy Trinity in Somersworth in 1966-67.
- Leo Landry was included in a settlement announced 11/26/02.
- Rev. Leo Landry: Molester Priest 'Told ... Not to Do It Again,' by Kathryn Marchocki (March 4, 2003)
- Abusive Ex-Priest Once Served in New Hampshire, Associated Press (August 5, 2004)
Lapointe, Alfred Manchester Diocesan - Lapointe was included in a settlement announced 11/26/02.
Leclerc, Maurice Manchester Diocesan - Leclerc was included in a settlement announced 11/26/02.
Lemire, Edmond Extern – from Canada - The NH AG has released a letter from the diocese's lawyer, notifying the AG that a 10/10/02 settlement of sexual abuse claims included Lemire and seven other priests. See detailed article on the settlement, which describes Lemire's 1963 seduction and abuse of a boy who was a parishioner at St. Edmond's church in Manchester.
- Lemire was included in a settlement announced 11/26/02.

Lower, Richard

 

Manchester Diocesan - The NH AG has released a 1989 letter by Christian describing Lower's seduction of a young man in a counseling situation at St. John Neumann in Merrimack, where Lower was pastor. Lower resigned, was tested, and then was made pastor of Our Lady of Fatima in New London..
- Lower was found dead in late 2002, after being accused of molesting a boy at St. Rose of Lima parish in Littleton in 1973. See also.
List of Assignments: Ordained 1971. St. John the Evangelist in Hudson (1971-72); St. Rose of Lima in Littleton (1972-73); chaplain at Mary Hitchcock Hospital in Hanover (1973-80); St. Elizabeth Seton
Parish in Bedford (1982-85); St. John the Evangelist in Concord (pastor 1985-88); St. John Neumann in Merrimack (pastor 1988-90); Our Lady of Fatima in New London (pastor 1990-2002). Member of the Council of Priests and served as the Vicar Forane (dean) of the Lebanon Deanery. Source: Obituary.

MacRae, Gordon

 

Manchester Diocesan - The NH AG's report provided a detailed description of the MacRae case. We have created a useful hypertext version of the MacRae description, with links to over 100 MacRae documents.
- The NH AG has released 1,861 pages of diocesan and investigative files on MacRae. That archive is available only here, in 50-page batches: {1} {2} {3} {4} {5} {6} {7} {8} {9} {10} {11} {12} {13} {14} {15} {16} {17} {18} {19} {20} {21} {22} {23} {24} {25} {26} {27} {28} {29} {30} {31} {32} {33} {34} {35} {36} {37} {38} {39}
- We are also currently posting the entire MacRae archive document-by-document for easy download.

The MacRae case was reexamined recently by Dorothy Rabinowitz of the Wall Street Journal:
- A Priest's Story: Not All Accounts of Sex Abuse in the Catholic Church Turn Out to Be True, by Dorothy Rabinowitz (April 27-28, 2005)
- Writer Takes Up Convicted Priest's Case: Wall Street Journal Articles Say MacRae Forced to Confess, by Daniel Barrick (April 29, 2005)
- A Radical Claim: We're Not Ready to Rewrite the Story of Clergy Sex Abuse, editorial in the Concord [NH] Monitor (April 29, 2005)
- Judge Stands by Priest's Sex Abuse Sentence, by Denis Paiste (April 29, 2005)
- MacRae Lobbied Writer for Years: Columnist Says Priest Was Falsely Convicted, by Daniel Barrick (April 30, 2005)
- MacRae's Lawyer Vows to Appeal: Priest Challenges Sex Abuse Conviction, by Daniel Barrick (May 3, 2005)
- Priest Convicted of Sex Assault Plans Fresh Appeal, in Manchester [NH] Union Leader (May 4, 2005)

Maguire, Joseph T.

 

Manchester Diocesan - Maguire was one of 15 priests whose names were turned over by the diocese to state prosecutors on 2/15/02. See also.
- Maguire was included in a settlement announced 11/26/02. See also.
- Victims Watch as Maguire Admits to Molestations, by Bruno Matarazzo, Jr., (March 4, 2004), in which it is reported that Maguire admited to the sexual abuse of 3 altar boys at St. Joseph's in Dover in the 1970s, as well as of other victims; at least one victim has attempted suicide.
- Priest Convicted of Rape Dies While in State Prison, by Kathryn Marchocki (February 23, 2005)
Mann, Hubert Manchester Diocesan - The NH AG has released a letter from the diocese's lawyer, notifying the AG that a 10/10/02 settlement of sexual abuse claims included Mann and seven other priests. See detailed article on the settlement, which describes an allegation that Mann targeted a 15-year-old boy from St. Charles church in Rochester when the boy's foster father died. Mann allegedly had the boy sleep over at the rectory and performed oral sex on the him.
McMullen, Francis Manchester Diocesan - The NH AG has released a 2002 investigative memo describing an allegation that in 1958 McMullen sexually abused an 8-year-old girl at St. Patrick's in Jaffrey. The girl's sister later learned that McMullen was moved from Jaffrey to St. Joseph's in Woodsville after the parents of a Jaffrey boy complained to the diocese that McMullen had assaulted their son.
- McMullen was one of 5 priests included in a settlement announced 12/19/02.

Meehan, Andrew

 

Manchester Diocesan - The NH AG has released an 11-page file of diocesan documents on Meehan, which show that his faculties were removed by McCormack after Meehan revealed during therapy at St. Luke's Institute that he had sexually abused several teenage boys. On the ned for outreach to those victims, see the letter to William Gavin from the New Hampshire Catholics for Moral Leadership (paragraph 3).
Morel, L. Religious Order – Brothers of the Sacred Heart - The NH AG has released a 5-page file of diocesan documents on Morel, who is alleged to have groped a former student at Bishop Guertin High.
Nolin, John Manchester Diocesan - The NH AG has released a 142-page file of investigative and diocesan documents on Nolin {1} {2} {3}, in which he is accused of sexually abusing the daughter of one woman with whom he was having an affair. The alleged abuse began when the girl was 6 years old and continued until she was 16.
- Church Accused of Stonewalling in Priest Sex Case (March 20, 2002)
Osgood, Donald Manchester Diocesan - The NH AG has released hundreds of pages of investigative and diocesan documents on Osgood {1} {2} {3} {4} {5} {6}, including a useful summary of his career, but apparently not including Osgood's confidential file, referenced in one of the documents. There is important evidence on the Paracletes, transfers of priests, seminaries, and management of dioceses while bishops were away at Vatican II.
- Three NH AG documents offer hints of Osgood's alleged abuses as chaplain of Sacred Heart Hospital in Manchester, and (after time with the Paracletes and in therapy) as assistant at All Saints in Lancaster (see complaints in the parish and the Catholic police chief's assessment of a "real bad situation").
- The NH AG has released a letter from the diocese's lawyer, notifying the AG that a 10/10/02 settlement of sexual abuse claims included Mann and seven other priests. See detailed article on the settlement, which reports an allegation that Osgood abused a victim from St. Augustine's in Manchester "about 200 times."
- In 2002, a civil suit was filed accusing Osgood of molesting a boy 1960–65 at St. Joseph's Cathedral in Manchester. See also. In July 2002, a suit was filed alleging that Osgood molested a 13- to 14-year-old boy in the priest's car.
- Osgood was included in a settlement announced 11/26/02.
- Osgood was one of 5 priests included in a settlement announced 12/19/02.
- Rev. Donald M. Osgood: Documents Detail "Licentious" Activity at City Hospital, by Roger Talbot (March 4, 2003)
Pelletier, Eugene Manchester Diocesan - The NH AG has released a 47-page file of diocesan documents on Pelletier, including an accusation that he sexually abused an altar boy at St. Martin's in Somersworth.
- Pelletier was one of 15 priests whose names were turned over by the diocese to state prosecutors on 2/15/02. See also.
Petit, Philip Manchester Diocesan - The NH AG has released hundreds of pages of investigative and diocesan documents on Petit {1} {2} {3} {4} {5} {6} {7} {8} {9} {10} {11}
- Four Priests Accused in N.H. Lawsuits, by J.M. Hirsch (April 9, 2002)
- Monsignor: N.H. Priest Files Destroyed to Conceal Abuse Evidence, by Kathryn Marchocki (January 8, 2003)

Poirier, John

 

Manchester Diocesan - The NH AG has released a 26-page file of diocesan and investigative documents on Poirier, including documentation on his "sexual addiction" to young men and his "slips" with them. While at St. Paul's in Franklin (1975-80), he solicited sex from a young male hitchhiker, and while at St. Catharine's in Manchester (1984-86), he fondled a boy (and perhaps the boy's brother also) during a swimming trip approved by the boys' parents.
- Poirier was one of 15 priests whose names were turned over by the diocese to state prosecutors on 2/15/02. See also.
- In July 2002 suits were filed alleging that Poirier molested an altar boy from St. Catherine's in Manchester (age 10-12), and another boy (age 11-13) in 1980-82. Both were taken to Glen Lake to be abused.

Richard, Edward

 

Manchester Diocesan - Priest Accused of Abuse Retires Associated Press (June 2, 2003)

Robichaud, George

 

Manchester Diocesan - A civil suit against Robichaud for abuse was settled and a criminal charge of rape resulted in a mistrial and dropped charges over questions about the victim's age; misdemeanor charges of sexual touching were dropped because the statute of limitations had expired.
- Alleged Victim Testifies at Priest Trial, by Gordon King (April 10, 2003)
- Alleged Victim of Priest Says He Was Conflicted, by Annmarie Timmins (April 15, 2003)
- Jurors Hear Priest's Recorded Apology: Defense Focuses on Age of Alleged Victim, by Annmarie Timmins (April 16, 2003)
- Robichaud Trial Ends in Hung Jury, by Annmarie Timmins (April 24, 2003)
- Alleged Sex Assault Victim Says He Was 15, by Daniel Barrick (July 10, 2003)
- Last Robichaud Charges Dropped (August 7, 2003)
- State Drops Abuse Case against Rev. Robichaud (July 11, 2003)

Scruton, Stephen Manchester Diocesan - Scruton was one of 15 priests whose names were turned over by the diocese to state prosecutors on 2/15/02. See also.
- In 2002, civil suits were filed accusing Scruton of abusing a boy 1965–69 at St. Kieran's in Berlin and knowing of abuse by another priest but doing nothing. See also.
- Scruton was included in a settlement announced 11/26/02. See also.
- Abusers' Payroll, editorial in the Keene (NH) Sentinel ( February 26, 2005)
Shea, Leo Alfred Manchester Diocesan - The NH AG has released 65 pages of diocesan and investigative files on Shea {1} {2}, including one allegation that in 1977 Shea abused a 13-year-old boy at St. Patrick's in Pelham, and extensive documentation (including a wiretapped confession and report) that Shea had abused a 14-year-old boy at Immaculate Conception in Troy, sometimes taking the boy to Shea's house on Cape Cod for the purpose. Two mothers had notified the diocese of this abuse in 1982 shortly after it began, but Shea was merely transferred to All Saints in Lancaster. Shea served time for this offense after it was investigated in 1993. Alleged abuse of at least two other boys is mentioned in the file.
- Shea was sued in 2002 for allegedly abusing two boys aged 5 and 12; five suits had been filed previously. See also.
- The NH AG has released a letter from the diocese's lawyer, notifying the AG that a 10/10/02 settlement of sexual abuse claims included Mann and seven other priests. See detailed article on the settlement, including alleged abuse by Shea at St. Anthony's in Manchester (1970s); Sacred Heart in Manchester (1966-70); at a parish in Nashua (early 1970s); and at Immaculate Conception in Manchester (1973-74).
- Shea was included in a settlement announced 11/26/02
Sullivan, John T. Manchester Diocesan - The NH AG has released hundreds of pages of diocesan and investigative files on Sullivan. {1} {2} {3} {4} {5} {6}
- Files: Church Understood Priest Abuse in 1950s, by Kathryn Marchocki (March 6, 2003)

Talbot, Francis

 

Manchester Diocesan - The NH AG has released a letter from the diocese's lawyer, notifying the AG that a 10/10/02 settlement of sexual abuse claims included Talbot and seven other priests. See detailed article on the settlement, including description of Talbot's alleged abuse of a boy who was a parishioner at St. Augustine's in Manchester.
- Talbot was one of 15 priests whose names were turned over by the diocese to state prosecutors on 2/15/02. See also.
- Talbot was included in a settlement announced 11/26/02.
- Victim of Sex Abuse by Rev. Talbot Talks of Guilt, Fear, Pain, by Kathryn Marchocki (November 18, 2002)
- Priest Gets 10 to 20 Years for Manchester Boy's Abuse, by Nancy Meersman (March 5, 2003)

Tancrede, Roland

 

Manchester Diocesan - The NH AG has released a 7-page file of investigative documents on Tancrede.
- Retired Monsignor Removed from Duties over Abuse Allegations, Associated Press (September 6, 2002)
Vadenboncoeur, Paul Manchester Diocesan - Vadenboncoeur was one of 5 priests included in a settlement announced 12/19/02.
Valliere, Romeo Manchester Diocesan - The NH AG has released a 31-page file of diocesan and investigative documents on Valliere, which includes a 1989 letter from Christian saying that Valliere had changed his story and admitted abusing two boys. The file also contains an accusation that Valliere shared pornography with boys. A 1976 letter from a parent to Bishop Gendron documents drunken parties for boys in Valliere's rectory at St. Albert's in West Stewartstown.
- Valliere was one of 15 priests whose names were turned over by the diocese to state prosecutors on 2/15/02. See also.
Vielett, Roland Manchester Diocesan - The NH AG has released a 4-page investigative file on Vielett, containing an accusation of abuse in 1973.
- The man who made that accusation filed a civil suit in 2002. See also.
Voglio, John Religious Order – Salesians - The NH AG has released a 5-page investigative file on Voglio, containing an accusation that Voglio abused a 12-year-old boy at Camp Don Bosco in Barrington in 1982.
Walsh, Patrick Religious Order – Legionaries of Christ - The NH AG has released a 20-page investigative file on Walsh, which documents an accusation that Walsh abused a boy at the Legionaries' high school in Center Harbor 1992-93.


McCORMACK’S SUPERVISION OF ACCUSED BOSTON PRIESTS


* Robert M. Burns – When an alleged victim finally files a lawsuit against this known pedophile in 1991, McCormack immediately acts to withhold information from the alleged victim’s lawyer and from the press. See Burns Article 1.

* Joseph K. Coleman – Even though Coleman admits to McCormack that he has sexually abused two teenage boys from his Boston parish, McCormack does not call police or inform parishioners. He instead follows a familiar protocol: he sends Coleman to treatment and then assigns him to be a hospital chaplain. See Coleman Article 1.

* Richard T. Coughlin – The former bishop of the diocese of Orange County, California, says that McCormack never warned him that boys’ choir founder Coughlin, facing multiple allegations of child molestation in Orange, had been credibly accused of sexually abusing boys in Boston many years earlier. See Coughlin Article 1 and 2.

* James D. Foley – In 1993, Foley reveals to McCormack and Cardinal Law that when he was a young priest in the 1960s, he had left the scene of the fatal drug overdose of the mother of his two children. The church leaders do not inform law enforcement officials. In fact, they decide that Foley is still fit for ministry. He continues serving in Boston parishes until 2001. See Foley Article 1.

* Thomas Forry – In 1992, McCormack keeps Forry in ministry after learning that the woman with whom the priest has had an 11-year affair is accusing him of making sexual advances towards her son. Forry reportedly goes on to abuse other children: he is finally removed from ministry in February 2002, a few months after another woman says that Forry molested her and her brother in 1997, when both alleged victims were minors. See Forry Article 1 and 2.

* Robert Gale – In 1994, McCormack adds to Gale’s brimming file of allegations the story of a 12-year-old boy who woke up bleeding rectally after Gale allegedly raped him in 1979. In 1999, McCormack, now bishop of NH, allows Gale to celebrate Mass at Camp Fatima, a boys’ summer camp, in Barnstead, NH. See Gale Article 1 and 2.

* John Geoghan – By 1984, when McCormack becomes secretary of ministerial personnel, Geoghan’s file already is crammed with numerous complaints of child molestation, including a report that he had abused seven boys in one family. McCormack does nothing to curb the priest’s access to children. He is part of the board that recommends Geoghan’s re-assignment to St. Julia’s in Weston, where for eight years, the priest supervises the altar boys and youth group, and reportedly molests at least 30 more children. See Geoghan Article 1, 2, 3, and 4.

* Edward Kelley – In 1992, a man who says he was molested by Kelley at age 11 asks McCormack to make sure that Kelley no longer has access to children. After two months, when McCormack tells the alleged victim that he still has not checked out Kelley, the man hunts down the priest himself. He finds Kelley supervising recess at a parish elementary school in Medford, where Kelley is in charge of the K-6 religious ed program. See Kelley Article 1.

* Bernard J. Lane – In 1993, McCormack advises that sexual abuse complaints against Lane not be brought before the archdiocesan review board because the alleged victim’s charges are mean-spirited and “not credible.” In the next nine years, ten more people report that they were molested as children by Lane. See Lane Article 1.

* Paul Mahan – In 1993, allegations from five alleged victims prompt McCormack to put Mahan on a leave that is poorly supervised: in 1994, the archdiocese learns that Mahan has spent the summer living in a house with his teenage nephew and his nephew’s young male friends. See Mahan Article 1. See also the Massachusetts Attorney General's Report, p. 70 (PDF p. 76).

* Richard Matte – McCormack’s treatment of alleged child molesters was typically patient and supportive, even when a priest faced multiple allegations. See Matte Article 1.

* Robert Morrissette – McCormack often responded in a leisurely way to charges of child molestation even when a priest admitted to the acts. In 1984, Morrissette confirms that he had "made advances" to a boy; McCormack does not recommend his suspension from ministry until 1993. See Morrissette Article 1.

* Ronald H. Paquin – In the early 1990s, McCormack responds to multiple complaints against Paquin by sending him for psychiatric treatment and then assigning him to a chaplaincy at a hospital in Methuen, where Paquin allegedly resumes molesting boys from his former parish in nearby Haverhill. See Paquin Article 1 and 2.

* George Rosenkranz – In 1988, a man tells McCormack that he was sexually abused at age 15 by Rosenkranz. McCormack replies that the alleged victim had misinterpreted the priest’s attempts at affection. See Rosenkranz Article 1 and 2.

* Paul Shanley – In 1989, Cardinal Law asks McCormack to be the handler of his seminary classmate, Shanley, who already has admitted to raping minors in Boston and has accrued a thick file of complaints stretching back to the early 1960s. By 1990, Shanley is working in the diocese of San Bernardino, California, where, he tells McCormack, he is supervising youth retreats. McCormack does not inform California church authorities of Shanley’s record until 1993. See Shanley Article 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5.

* Paul J. Tivnan – In 1988, McCormack persuades a public prosecutor not to pursue criminal charges of child molestation against Tivnan. Three years earlier, Tivnan had admitted to church officials that he had sexually abused another boy in 1978. See Tivnan Article 1.

* Ernest E. Tourigney – McCormack ignores advice from alleged victims of Tourigney that the archdiocese report allegations of child abuse to civil authorities and also take a “proactive role” to “surface victimized children.” See Tourigney Article 1.


RESOURCES

Calls by laity and clergy for McCormack's resignation, including NH VOTF's excellent response to McCormack's refusal to resign and a letter from the Rev. Tom Doyle calling for resignations of NH Bishops McCormack and Christian.

New Hampshire Attorney General’s Report. Also available in easy-to-download sections: 1. Table of Contents; 2. Overview and Legal Analysis; Essays on selected priests: 3. Paul Aube; 4. Albert Boulanger; 5. Gerald R. Chalifour; 6. Robert Densmore; 7. Roger Fortier; 8. Raymond Laferriere; 9. Leo Landry; 10. Gordon MacRae. See also our hypertext version of the MacRae chapter, with links to over 100 MacRae documents.


* Plaintiffs' Memorandum of Law in Support of Motion in Limine to Admit Evidence of Practices and Policies of the Roman Catholic Archbishop of Boston, a Corporation Sole, Concerning Sexually Abusive Priests Other Than Paul R. Shanley [Gregory Ford, et al. v. Bernard Cardinal Law, et al.] {1} {2} {3}- Cites evidence of negligent management of 25 sexually abusive priests by top officials of the Boston archdiocese, including McCormack. Filed in July 2003, it has been largely overlooked by the news media.


Manchester Archives 9,000 pages of AG investigative results and diocesan files, released with the AG's report

Agreement between the NH AG and the Diocese of Manchester.

Attorney General's Audit: The agreement between the attorney general and the diocese of Manchester (see previous item) stipulated that the attorney general would audit the diocese to assure better policies and practices with regard to sexual abuse by priests. Here are some informative news reports:
- Church Files Lawsuit over Audit Delay: Diocese, State Disagree on How Inquiry , by Daniel Barrick and AnnMarie Timmins (May 28, 2004)
- Church, State Meet before Judge: Sides Look for Intervention in Audit, by Eric Moscowitz (January 21, 2005)
- Unrepentant Catholic Church Should Stop Stalling and Agree to an Audit, editorial in the Concord Monitor
(January 23, 2005)


Diocese of Manchester, Restoring Trust: A Report to the People of Manchester, March 3, 2003.

Diocesan Task Force on Sexual Misconduct Policy, Report to the Bishop of Manchester, January 16, 2003.

The Sexual Abuse of Children in the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Boston, released by Massachusetts Attorney General Thomas F. Reilly. Executive Summary and Full Report.


MEDIA REPORTS AND OTHER DOCUMENTS

A comprehensive collection of informative newspaper accounts, arranged chronologically, that describe McCormack's roles in the clergy sex abuse crisis in both the Boston archdiocese and the Manchester diocese.

* Pre-2002
* January 2002
* February 2002
* March 2002
* April 1-9, 2002
* April 10-14, 2002
* April 15-30, 2002
* May 2002
* June 1-8, 2002
* June 9-30, 2002
* July 2002
* August 2002
* September 2002
* October 2002
* November 2002
* December 1-8, 2002
* December 9-11, 2002
* December 12-14, 2002
* December 15-22, 2002
* December 23-31, 2002

* January 1-12, 2003
* January 13-24, 2003
* January 25-31, 2003
* February 1-14, 2003
* February 15-28, 2003
* March 1-4, 2003
* March 4-31, 2003
* April 2003
* May 2003
* June 2003
* July 1-22, 2003
* July 23-31, 2003
* August 2003
* September 2003
* October 2003
* November 2003
* Editorials


WEB SITES

* Diocese of Manchester
* NH Catholics for Moral Leadership
* NH Attorney General, and separate pages on the Agreement and the Report.
* Manchester (NH) Union Leader Web Site on the Crisis
* Nashua (NH) Telegraph Web Site on the Crisis
* Concord (NH) Monitor Articles on Bishop McCormack and the Crisis
* Boston Globe Web Site on the Crisis


HIGHLY RECOMMENDED MEDIA REPORTS AND OTHER READING


Overviews of McCormack’s Role
* Timmins and McConnell, “Complaints Didn't Dim Bishop's Faith in Priests,” Concord Monitor 6/6/02.
* “Bishop John B. McCormack: Role in Sex Abuse Scandal Still Questioned,” Manchester Union Leader 7/9/02.
* Farragher and Carroll, “Bishop Often Sided with Priests in Abuse Cases,” Boston Globe 1/26/03.

McCormack's Overriding Policy Was to Keep Abuses Secret and Avoid Scandal
* Robinson and Kurkjian, “Records Show a Trail of Secrecy, Deception,” Boston Globe, 12/4/02.
* Rezendes and Carroll, “Files: Church Struck Deals with Accusers,” Boston Globe 12/20/02.

McCormack Treated Abusive Priests with Sympathy and Victims with Skepticism
* Mashberg, “Records Show Church Coddled Problem Priest,” Boston Herald 4/14/02.
* Hirsch, “Church Files Show N.H. Bishop McCormack's Role in Shanley Case,” Foster’s Online 4/9/02.
* Pfeiffer, “Law Aides Often Dismissed Complaints of Clergy Abuse,” Boston Globe 4/12/02.
* Associated Press, “Bishop Assured Parent Son Not Being Molested; Priest Was Undergoing Treatment at the Time,” Concord Monitor 12/19/02.
* Farragher and Carroll, “Bishop Often Sided with Priests in Abuse Cases,” Boston Globe 1/26/03.

McCormack Repeatedly Placed Known Abusers in Poorly Supervised "Restricted Ministries"
* Massachusetts Attorney General Thomas F. Reilly, The Sexual Abuse of Children in the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Boston, Office of the Massachusetts Attorney General 7/23/03, especially pp. 39-45 of the Full Report.
* Timmons and McConnell, “Complaints Didn't Dim Bishop's Faith in Priests,” Concord Monitor 6/6/02.

Despite Recent Improvements in NH, McCormack Has Proved Willing to Place Known Abusers in Ministry
* Marchocki, “McCormack Admits Knowing Rev. Cote Paid Teen for Sex,” Manchester Union Leader 12/24/02.

Note
: The documents in these files are offered solely for educational purposes. Should any reader wish to quote or reproduce these documents for sale, the original publisher should be contacted and permission requested. BishopAccountability.org makes no claim regarding the accuracy of any document we post.

Please send suggestions for adding documents to staff@bishop-accountability.org.

 
 

Any original material on these pages is copyright © BishopAccountability.org 2004. Reproduce freely with attribution.