Diocese releases several names of priests accused of sex abuse from Tri-Cities

By Thomas Yazwinski
KEPR TV
July 10, 2019

https://bit.ly/2Jz13DX

The names of dozens priests and deacons in Central Washington with substantial sexual abuse allegations were released on Wednesday.

Bishop Joseph Tyson, after thorough consultation and upon the recommendation of the Yakima Diocese Lay Advisory Board, has established a website listing the names of priests and deacons with substantiated allegations of sexual abuse of a minor during their time of ministry within the Diocese of Yakima.

Officials say the decision is based on the bishop's desire for transparency and to encourage victims of abuse to come forward.

The following is a list of all the names of men who served in the area of the Tri-Cities:

• Dale Calhoun was permanently removed from ministry. He had multiple claims and lawsuits settled. He served at St. Francis Cabrini in Benton City and St. Joseph in Kennewick.
• Robert Davalle was permanently removed from ministry. He admitted to abusing minors and is currently incarcerated. He served at Christ the King in Richland.
• Brian Gallagher is now deceased. He served at St. Frances Xavier Cabrini in Benton City.
• Gustavo Gomez has been permanently removed from ministry. He served at St. Francis Xavier Cabrini in Benton City.
• Peter Hagel is now retired and not in the ministry. He has a lawsuit pending in a new case. He served at St. Francis Xavier Cabrini in Benton City.
• Anthony King is now deceased. He had a lawsuit settled regarding sexual abuse. He served at Christ the King in Richland and Sacred Heart Parish in Prosser.
• Joseph Sondergeld is now deceased. He had multiple claims and lawsuits settled. He served at Sacred Heart in Prosser.
• John Tholen is now deceased. He had a lawsuit settled and had retired in 1997. He served at Sacred Heart in Prosser.

Locations of known assignments are listed, however this does not mean that there are allegations of abuse at each place," a spokesperson said.

A statement from the Diocese stated that anyone sexually abused by clergy or by anyone working on behalf of the Church is encouraged to contact the Yakima Diocese Victim Assistance Coordinator at 1-888-276-4490, or local law enforcement.