Jesuit provinces release names of accused priests; three former local priests named

By Sam Coniglio
WTRF
December 17, 2018

https://www.wtrf.com/news/jesuit-provinces-release-names-of-accused-priests-three-former-local-priests-named/1663488990

The Maryland Province of the Jesuits has released the names of Jesuits who have faced "credible or established" accusations of sexual abuse of minors. Three of the names on the list are priests who have served in the Ohio Valley, specifically at Wheeling Jesuit University.

The report states that most cases date back decades and the most recent incident occurred in 2002. None of the allegations stem from their time in the Ohio Valley.

"Although this list is exhaustive and comprehensive as it relates to the Charter at this time and in its present form, the Diocese reserves the right to update the list should more information become available as time goes on," said the Diocese of Wheeling-Charleston in a statement.

The three names in question, their allegations, and the years in which they were in the Ohio Valley:

Louis A. Bonacci (Wheeling Jesuit, 1999-2003) - "Multiple accusations of unwanted touching under and over clothes."

Francis C. Bourbon (Wheeling Jesuit, 1992-1993, 1996-2003; St. Paul's in Weirton, 1993-1994; Nativity of our Lord in Wayne, 1994-1996) - "Single allegation of unwanted kiss."

Robert B. Cullen (Central Catholic High School, 1982-1983; Wheeling Jesuit, 1983-1990) - "Multiple allegations of sexual abuse."

Wheeling Jesuit also released a statement saying in part:

"Wheeling Jesuit University hopes that this disclosure of names will contribute to reconciliation and healing. May we find in this moment the courage to move forward with integrity, transparency and accountability. We encourage anyone who suspects abuse by any clergy or employee of the Province to contact local civil authorities and/or the provincial’s office of the Maryland Province. Our Victim Assistance Coordinator can be reached at 443-370-6357, MARadvocacy@jesuits.org, or through writing to Maryland Province of the Society of Jesus, 8600 LaSalle Rd, Suite 620, Towson, MD 21286."