Notice of Credible Allegation of Abuse Dating to 1950s

Catholic Key
December 10, 2017

http://catholickey.org/2017/12/11/notice-of-credible-allegation-of-abuse-dating-to-1950s/

The diocese recently received an allegation of sexual abuse of a minor by Father Sylvester Hoppe dating to 1953 to 1956. The priest, who died in 2002, was chaplain to St. Mary’s Orphanage in St. Joseph at the time.

Consistent with diocesan policy, the allegation was reported to the civil authorities and investigated. It was found credible by the independent ombudsman, Independent Review Board and Bishop Johnston.

Several prior allegations have been received against Hoppe since 2002. He also was the subject of two lawsuits claiming child sexual abuse that the diocese settled in 2008.

Hoppe served at Immaculate Conception, St. Joseph; St. Rose, Savannah; St. Patrick, Forest City; St. Paul, Tarkio; St. Benedict, Burlington Junction; St. Columban, Chillicothe; St. Ann, Excelsior Springs, and Sacred Heart Norborne. He also served as diocesan director of Catholic Boy Scouts before retiring in 1991.

“Our prayers are with the individual who came forward, which takes great courage, and with all those who have been affected,” said Carrie Cooper, Director of the office of Child and Youth Protection.

The diocese has comprehensive child protection policies that include reporting suspected abuse to civil authorities; healing and pastoral care for victims; mandated criminal background checks; and safe environment education for all clergy, employees and volunteers working with minors. The policies are online at kcsjcatholic.org.

Anyone who suspects child abuse is urged to contact civil authorities and, if the individual has worked or volunteered for the diocese, the ombudsman.

The diocese is committed to providing support and resources for healing. Anyone who has been harmed by an individual ministering, working or volunteering for the diocese is encouraged to contact Kathleen Chastain, victim advocate, at 816-392-0011 or chastain@diocesekcsj.org, for this assistance.