Diocesan Statement on Clohessy Settlement

Roman Catholic Diocese of Jefferson City
September 4, 2015

http://www.diojeffcity.org/index.php?option=com_k2&view=item&id=72:diocesan-statement-on-clohessy-settlement

News media have issued reports concerning a recent personal settlement between the Diocese of Jefferson City and David Clohessy, director of SNAP. Below is the full statement issued by the Diocese concerning this settlement:

September 3, 2015 -- Earlier this year, David Clohessy contacted the Diocese of Jefferson City regarding his report of abuse involving Rev. John Whiteley, a priest who last worked in the diocese almost 25 years ago. Mr. Clohessy's allegations against Fr. Whiteley were well publicized in 1991, the year that Mr. Clohessy filed a lawsuit against Fr. Whiteley and the Diocese.

After being contacted by Mr. Clohessy, representatives of the Diocese met with him and his wife at their home in St. Louis. After the meeting, Bishop Gaydos wrote Mr. Clohessy to extend to him an apology for the abuse that he reported.

Last month, the Diocese provided monetary assistance to Mr. Clohessy to help him with his needs for healing.

In 1991, the Diocese placed Fr. Whiteley on leave after it became aware of abuse allegations against him and he has not exercised priestly ministry in the Diocese since that time. The Diocese is not aware of any complaints of abuse involving Fr. Whiteley occurring after he was placed on leave.

The diocese is proud of the activities it sponsors to protect children. Since 2003, it has conducted nearly 600 child protection classes for adults, providing 13,000 employees and volunteers in our diocese with the education needed to help keep children safe. The training provides education on child sexual abuse, five steps adults can take to protect children, and what to do when abuse is suspected.

All children, both in Catholic schools and in PSR/CCD catechism programs, are given education regarding sexual abuse, ways to protect themselves and what to do if abuse occurs.

The Diocese encourages anyone who has been abused by a representative of the church to contact their local law enforcement officials as well as Mike Berendzen, Review Administrator for the Diocese of Jefferson City.