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  Alleged Predator Priest Passes Away

SNAP
July 13, 2010

http://www.snapnetwork.org/snap_press_releases/2010_press_releases/071310_alleged_predator_priest_passes_away.htm

[memo from the Detroit archdiocese]

In a 7/12 memo, Msgr. Robert McClory of the Detroit archdiocese has notified priests that Fr. Ronald R. Williams has passed away. According to a Boston-based research group that documents the Catholic clergy sex abuse crisis, Williams was "accused in June 2002 of getting a male minor drunk and attempting to perform oral sex on the boy. Williams was suspended and, investigative files reveal, two other men then came forward to the prosecutor. One alleged similar abuse in 1979 at age 16. The other alleged Williams fondled his bottom at age 17 in 1984. No charges were filed because statute of limitations had expired." In April 2007, "the Vatican permanently barred from active ministry."

"While we sympathize with Fr. Williams' family, we hope the news of his passing will bring some closure and relief to anyone he may have victimized, especially anyone who is still suffering in shame, silence and self-blame," said Barbara Dorris of SNAP, the Survivors Network of those Abused by Priests, a Chicago-based support group.

"Many times, victims don't feel safe coming forward and getting help until their perpetrator is deceased," she said. "We hope others who may have been hurt by Williams will now be able to speak up, get therapy, and start recovering."

For more information: David Clohessy, SNAPclohessy@aol.com 314 566 9790

 
 

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