Bishop Hartmayer Releases List of Those Credibly Accused of Sexual Abuse of Minors

Diocese of Savannah
November 9, 2018

https://diosav.org/news-2018-11-9-bishop-hartmayer

The Diocese of Savannah is committed to the protection of minors, as well as to compliance with the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People. In a spirit of transparency and the hope of continued healing for the survivors of abuse, I have decided to release the list of the priests credibly accused of sexual abuse of a minor. The list below was compiled from the best information available to us at this time and covers the period from 1950 until now.

The list is divided into three parts:

Priests under the direct authority of the Diocese of Savannah where a credible allegation of sexual abuse has been made involving conduct within the diocese

Priests under the direct authority of a Religious Order, but assigned to the Savannah Diocese where a credible allegation of sexual abuse has been made involving conduct within the diocese

Priests where the Diocese of Savannah has not received an allegation of sexual abuse regarding conduct within the diocese, but where a credible allegation of sexual abuse has been made against them elsewhere

The list of credibly accused clergy has been prepared based on the recommendation of the Diocesan Review Board, which is composed of members who are laypersons and not in the employ of the diocese. This board serves to advise the diocesan bishop in his assessment of allegations of sexual abuse of minors as well as in his determination of a cleric’s suitability for ministry following an allegation of abuse. It also assists in reviews of diocesan policies and procedures for dealing with sexual abuse of minors.

The list below will be updated if new credible allegations of sexual abuse of a minor are determined.

If you are a victim of abuse by clergy, an employee or a volunteer in the Diocese of Savannah, or if you know of anyone who has been a victim of such misconduct, please contact civil authorities and the Diocese Abuse Reporting Line at 1-888-357-5330.

Along with the publication of this information, I renew my apology for the damage that young lives have suffered and the profound sorrow and anger that our families have endured.

† Gregory J. Hartmayer, OFM Conv.

Bishop of Savannah

November 8, 2018