| Database of Publicly Accused Priests in the United States | ||
| Viewed by Last Name: A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z | ||
| Return to main database page. See abbreviations and posting policy. Send corrections. |
| Last | First | Ord | T | Status | D/O | Notes | Diocese | Source/Assignments |
| Wachter | Carl | 1939 | P | Sued | Diocesan | In 2001 two sisters filed suit alleging that they were abused at ages 7 & 8 by Wachter. Girls were staying at Christie School in Maryhurst. Women say a nun saw the abuse and did nothing. Wachter died in 1992. Archdiocese paid $440,000 in 2003 to settle the claims. | Portland, OR | Source: The Oregonian 11.06.01; The Oregonian 1.16.92; Sunday Oregonian 7.7.02; Table: The Oregonian 11.12.06 |
| Wadeson | John H. | 1969 | P | Accused | Divine Word Missionaries | Accused of abuse of 2 from 1973-1977 per archdiocesan report. Also worked in Trenton, NJ, and Portland, OR diocese. | Los Angeles, CA | Source: LA Archdiocesan Report 2.17.04 page 6 Assignments: LA Times Database 4.20.06 |
Wagner | Alphonse | 1944 | P | Accused | Diocesan | Name appears on 7/08 Diocesan Review Board list of clergy "credibly acused" of sexual abuse. Accused of abuse of two male minors beginning in 1969. Died 1974. | Davenport, IA | Source: Quad-City Times 7.10.08; Hawk Eye 7.12.08 Assignments: Catholic Messenger 7.17.08; BA.org Concise Assignment Record |
| Wagner | Dennis | P | Convicted | Diocesan | Convicted 1983. Assault on boy, age 13. | Grand Rapids, MI | Source: Associated Press 5.14.02; Grand Rapids Press 1.08.07 | |
| Wagner | Jerome A. | 1972 | P | Accused | Diocesan | Placed on leave 8/02. He was serving on the Priest Placement Board and working in a parish. Allegations surfaced in 1985 that Wagner had gotten a 15 yr old boy drunk and molested him. Boy's mother confronted Wagner and went to police. He remained in parish for 8 months during investigation and was then transferred to another parish. Church said he would have no further contact with youths. Laicized per 11/26/07 statement. | Milwaukee, WI | Source: Milwaukee Catholic Herald 6.13.02; Milwaukee Catholic Herald 9.19.02; Statement by Archdiocese of Milwaukee 7.09.04; Milwaukee Journal Sentienl 7.10.04; Statement by Archdiocese of Milwaukee (updated 11/26/07) |
| Wagner | John C. | 1973 | P | Accused | Diocesan | Wagner's name appears on Archdiocese's July 2004 list of priests fully restricted from ministry (or who would have been restricted if still living) because of credible allegations of abuse. He is shown as "awaiting assignment" per 1993 Catholic Directory and "On leave" per the 2002 Directory. Remains fully restricted from ministry as of 11/26/07. | Milwaukee, WI | Source: Statement by Archdiocese of Milwaukee 7.09.04; Milwaukee Journal Sentiel 7.10.04; Statement by Archdiocese of Milwaukee 11.26.07) |
Wagner | Richard | 1961 | P | Accused | Diocesan | Removed 1993 when mandated reporter learned of alleged abuse of high school girl in late 1980s. Sent for treatment and placed in restricted priory setting. Previously taught at diocesan HS and had been named principal there by Bishop Dingman. No publicallegations until Bishop Charron recommended laicization 9/19/03. Laicized 10/13/06. | Des Moines, IA | Source: Channel4000.com 9.19.03; Des Moines Register 9.20.03; Des Moines Register 9.20.03 (2nd); Des Moines Register 9.29.03; Des Moines Register 10.1.03; Des Moines Register 07.08.04; Des Moines Register 11.16.06; KTIV 11.17.06; Des Moines Register 11.17.06 Assignments: Des Moines Register 9.20.03 |
| Wajda | Joseph | 1973 | P | Settled | Diocesan | Two 1989 civil suits allege Wajda abused at least two boys. Both boys had sought counseling from Wajda, Both suits against Wajda settled out of Court in 1991, one for a "substantial" settlement. Wajda continued serving as priest in administrative capacity until Bishops' conference in Dallas in June 2002. He was then placed on leave. He denied all abuse and appealed his case to review board. No further info found. | St. Paul-Minneapolis, MN | Source: United Press International 8.22.89; LA Times 5.19.90; St. Paul Pioneer Press 5.24.02; St. Paul Pioneer Press 5.26.02; St. Paul Pioneer Press 6.22.02; St. Paul Pioneer Press 11.15.02 |
Walderman | John | B | Sued | Christian Brothers | Walderman, the prinicipal of all-boys Bishop Hendricken High School, was indicted in 1986 on sexual molestation charges re 17 yr old boy. Charges said he solicited sex from teenage prostitute. Placed on leave of absence. The charges were later dropped in 1987. No reasons given. President of Rice high school in Harlem, NY until 2007 when he was placed on leave. | Providence, RI | Source: LA Times 1.02.86; Associated Press 1.03.86; NY Post 11.19.07 | |
Waldruff | Raymond | P | Accused | Franciscan | Accused of abuse. | Owensboro, KY | Source: Associated Press 3.29.02 | |
Walk | Donald J. | 1967 | P | Accused | Diocesan | Walk is named in July 2006 settlement with Miami Archdiocese as having abused 1 teenage boy in the 1970s-1980s. He had no particular assignment at the time and was still "absent on leave" per 1989 Catholic Directory. Served as chaplain of Miami Dolphins at one point. Named in 1 civil suit filed summer, 2007; accused of abusing 1 boy between ages of 14 and 16 in late 1970s. Another Plaintiff filed suit 12/07 alleging abuse from 1977-1982. | Miami, FL | Source: Miami Herald 7.21.06; Miami Herald 7.19.07; CBS4 12.20.07; NBC6 12.20.07; Local10 12.20.07; Sun Sentinel 12.21.07 |
| Wallace | Donald | 1962 | P | Accused | Diocesan | Parents of 4 boys accused Wallace in 1997 of "boundary violations" or inappropriate behavior. Wallace underwent treatment & assigned to hospital ministry in 1998 under supervision. He was reassigned to parish work in 2000. Retired in 2002. | Jefferson City, MO | Source: St. Louis Post Dispatch 3.12.02 |
| Walleman | Kenneth | 1959 | P | Sued | Jesuit | Sued 2003. Accused of abuse while at Native American reservation. | Sioux Falls, SD | Source: Pioneer Press in Washington Post 6.2.03 |
Walls | David E. | 1960 | P | Accused | Diocesan | Accused of 1987-1988 abuse of an adolescent brother and sister and another individual. Placed on administrative leave in 1988. Administrative leave continued 2002 with restrictions and further restrictions added 2004. Case at Vatican for review. | Philadelphia, PA | Source: Philadelphia Grand Jury Report; Philadelphia Inquirer 9.22.05; Philadelphia Inquirer 9.25.05; Local Catholic 9.29.05 Assignments: Philadelphia Archdiocesan Priest Data Profile |
Walsh | Gerard P. | 1974 | P | Accused | Diocesan | In 3/02 man gave Dist. Atty a written confession from Walsh regarding his abuse which began in late 1970s. Walsh had been serving as Chaplain with MA state police. Walsh admitted abuse and was removed from police and parish duties 3/02. Resigned in 2003. Diocese had known since 1998 when Plaintiff wrote letter outlining abuse. Walsh denied at that time. | Worcester, MA | Source: Boston Herald 3.21.02; Telegram & Gazette 3.22.02; Telegram & Gazette 11.15.02; Telegram & Gazette 5.20.03; Telegram & Gazette 6.4.03 |
| Walsh | James Joseph | P | Sued | Diocesan | Named in (2003??) lawsuit by 1 person alleging abuse in 1967-1968. Died in 1984. Named in archdiocesan report, Errata notice # 1. | Los Angeles, CA | Source: LA Archdiocesan Report Errata Notice # 1 Assignments: LA Times Database 4.20.06 | |
| Walsh | James T. | P | Sued | Diocesan | Accused of abuse. Died 1970. | Springfield, MA | Source: Springfield Republican 3.31.05 | |
| Walsh | Martin | 1974 | P | Accused | Diocesan | Person made allegations in late 1997 of abuse of 14 yr old boy in approx 1975. Walsh denied abuse but admitted ongoing problems with alcohol. Per 11.04.03 memo, Walsh was on permanent disability but had asked to return to duty. File outlines his problems from 1981 through 2003. Cardinal Law told Walsh he was restricted in 11/02, but Law never followed through officially, so Walsh not really restricted | Boston, MA | Source: McCarthy Memo 12.12.97; Murphy Memo 1.06.98; Strickland Memo 11.04.03 |
| Walsh | Michael | 2002 | P | Accused | Diocesan | Removed 2002. Accused of abuse. | Grand Rapids, MI | Source: Grand Rapids Press 7.05.02; Holland Sentinel 7.06.02; Grand Rapids Press 1.08.07 |
| Walsh | Milton T. | 1978 | P | Accused | Diocesan | Accused in 1984 of abuse of boy, age 14. Reported immediately to Arch. Quinn. Walsh allowed to remain active as teacher at seminary at Menlo Park until 8/02. Criminal charges filed 10/02 but were dropped 7/03 after U.S. Supreme Court ruling. | San Francisco, CA | Source: San Francisco Chronicle 10.5.02; Marin Independent Journal 6.10.03; Marin Independent Journal 7.2.03; San Francisco Chronicle 11.12.04; San Francisco 9.22.05 |
| Walsh | Patrick | P | Accused | Legionnaires of Christ | Accusations made in 2002 that Walsh abused at least 1 youth at high school in Center Harbor NH from 1992-1993 per records released by NH Atty General's office 3/03. | Manchester, NH | Source: Manchester Report by NH Atty General 3.3.03; Documents from NH Atty General Report 3.3.03; Union Leader 3.4.03 | |
| Walsh | Peter M. | 1982 | P | Convicted | Franciscan | Arrested 1993. Convicted 1994 on 5 counts of child endangerment because he exposed himself to children. Sentenced to 5 yrs probation and ordered to have a chaperone whenever he was in a car. Walsh was working in Troy New York but incidents occurred in Lyndhurst, New Jersey. | Newark, NJ | Source: NY Times 8.25.93; The Record 3.18.94; The Record (NJ) 5.14.94; Albany Times Union 5.11.03 |
Walsh | William J | 1954 | P | Accused | Jesuit | Walsh was teaching in China in 1996 when 5 of his nieces accused him of abusing them decades earlier. They reported the abuse to the Jesuit Order and Walsh was recalled. Walsh was assigned to the Woodstock Theological Center at Georgetown Univ. Women made their allegations public in 1998 because the Order had not removed. He was then placed on leave. | Washington, DC | Source: Georgetown Voice 4.23.98 Assignments: BA.org Assignment Record |
| Walsh | William M. | 1971 | P | Accused | Diocesan | A "third-hand" reference to abuse was investigated in 1980 and not substantiated and another investigation in 1991. At least two letters written to Archdiocese after Jan. 2001 contained allegations but no formal complaints. Review board determined in 2003 that anonymous accusations were not cause to suspend. Personnel file released in Jan. 2004. In late 2003 or early 2004 a person came forward with specific allegations and Walsh was placed on leave pending further investigation. | Boston, MA | Source: Boston Herald 1.15.04; Boston Herald 2.01.04; The Pilot 2.06.04 |
| Walsh (California) | Michael | 1971 | P | Settled | Diocesan | Placed on leave April 2002 after information surfaced that he abused two men in 1970s and 1980s. Diocese placed him on leave after the allections arose the first time. Walsh left the diocese for a time and worked in San Francisco. He returned in 1999. When he was placed on leave in 2002, he was working as director of diocesan communications and living in a parish rectory which had an adjoining school. One suit filed in 1985. Both men settled their claims. May have been a 3rd victim, a woman. | Sacramento, CA | Source: Sacramento Bee 4.01.02; Associated Press 4.05.02; Sacramento Bee 4.12.02; Associated Press 4.26.02; Sacramento Bee 1.31.03; Sacramento Bee 7.28.03 |
| Walter | Charles W. | 1974 | P | Accused | Diocesan | Walter's name appears on Archdiocese's July 2004 list of priests fully restricted from ministry (or who would have been restricted if still living) because of credible allegations of abuse. Remains fully stricted from ministry per 11/26/08 stastement. | Milwaukee, WI | Source: Statement by Archdiocese of Milwaukee 7.09.04; Milwaukee Journal Sentinel 7.10.04; Statement by Archdiocese of Milwaukee (rev. 11/26/07) |
| Wamsher | Ronald E. | 1977 | P | Sued | Diocesan | Four brothers complained to Diocese in 2002 and then filed suit 2003 alleging abuse by 5 priests, including Wamsher in the Diocese from 1967-1983. .3 of the 4 alleged abuse by Wamsher. Wamsher denied all allegations. Not placed on leave until 4/04. Another suit filed 8/04. | Springfield, MA | Source: The Republican 12.13.03; The Republican 3.1.04; The Republican 4.25.04; The Republican 8.3.04; Springfield Republican 7.30.08 |
Ward | Bernie | 1977 | P | Society of Precious Blood | Ward, a former priest and current radio talk show host, was indicted on federal internet child porn charges 12/07. His attorney reports that charges relate back to events 3-4 yrs ago when Ward was researching a book. Left priesthood in 1979 or 1980. He reportedly emailed child porn pictures to a woman who immediately turned him over to police & FBI. Originally pled not guilty. In 5/08 he pled guilty to 1 count. 5/08 articles allege abuse when he was still priest. Sentenced 8/08 to 7+ yrs. | San Francisco, CA | Source: San Jose Mercury News (AP) 12.06.07; KCBS 12.06.07; TransWorldNews 12.06.07; San Francisco Chronicle 12.06.07; KGO 12.06.07; San Francisco Chronicle 12.07.07; NBC 11 1.24.08; SFist 2.14.08; Huffington Post 2.15.08; SF Chronicle 2.16.08; CBS 5 4.28.08; NBC 11 5.07.08; San Jose Mercury News 5.07.08; NBC 11 5.08.08; KGO 5.08.08 Assignments: San Francisco Chronicle 5.09.08 (add'l article); San Jose Mercury News 5.09.08 (add'l article); ABC News 5.09.08 (add'l article); Press Democrat 5.10.08 (add'l article); KGO 5.15.08 (add'l article); San Jose Mercury News 8.28.08 (add'l article) | |
| Ward | Donal | P | Accused | Diocesan | Admission. Resigned 2002. Accused of abuse. | Burlington, VT | Source: Valley News (VT) 10.19.02 | |
Ward | Robert A. | 1974 | P | Accused | Diocesan | Allegations per diocesan records. | Boston, MA | Source: Boston Globe 12.12.02 Assignments: Boston Archdiocesan Assignment Record; Residence Change |
| Ward | Thomas J. | 1962 | P | Sued | Diocesan | Ward was suspended in 1993 or early 1994 and then reinstated 9 mo. later. When he was reassigned in 1994, the Bishop wrote to parishioners that Ward's evaluation "gave no reason to believe that the allegations might be true." 1994 civil suit alleged Ward abused one youth for 10 yrs beginning when the boy was 14. Suit settled 1999 for $20K. He "retired" in 1996 but continued to be active on part-time basis. Claims settled 8/08 as part of $10M settlement re 12 priests. | Kansas City-St. Joseph, MO | Source: Kansas City Star 9.01.94; Kansas City Star 9.14.94; Kansas City Star 10.14.94; Kansas City Star 3.06.96; Kansas City Star 8.20.97; Kansas City Star 4.13.02; The Pitch 10.16.03; Kansas City Star 8.20.08; Kansas City Star 8.20.08 |
| Warren | "Brother" unknown | B | Sued | Christian Brothers | Civil suit filed in Seattle in Jan. 2004 by three plaintiffs alleges extensive sexual and physical abuse by seven members of the Christian Brothers Order, including Br. Warren, at the Briscoe Memorial School for Boys in Kent Washington from 1940s through 1960s and at O'Dea High school. The school, now closed, was owned by the Archdiocese and run by the Order. Other men have come forward with stories of their own to support these allegations. | Seattle, WA | Source: R.E...v. Archbioship of Seattle..; King Cty; # 04-2-00112-9SEA; Seattle Times 1.08.04 | |
| Warren | A. Thomas | 1966 | P | Accused | Diocesan | Accused of abuse of 5 in 1991 per archdiocesan report. Warren's name has also been added to list of abusive priests affilited with Diocese of Tucson per June 2004 article. Article says Warren died in 2001. Tucson says no known victims there. | Los Angeles, CA | Source: LA Archdiocesan Report 2.17.04 page 3; Arizona Daily Star 7.10.04 Assignments: LA Times Database 4.20.06; Diocese of Tucson List of Accused Priests from Website n.d. |
Warren | Chet J. | 1957 | P | Settled | Oblates of St. Francis de Sales | Accused of abusing more than 10 girls, in what Bishop Blair called "grievously sinful and criminal acts." Ritual abuse alleged. Settlements exceed $1.2M. Expelled from order in 1993. Barred from the parish and school by court order in Aug. 2006. Per 4/8Diocese status report, Order says Warren has been "dismissed from the clerical state." | Toledo, OH | Source: Toledo Blade 12.1.02 (Major Account-Pt. 2); Toledo Blade 12.1.02; Toledo City Paper 4.29.04; Toledo Blade 2.20.05; Toledo Blade 3.14.05; Toledo Blade 8.29.06; Toledo Blade 9.01.06; Docese of Toledo Status Report 4.8.08 |
| Warren | Ronald James Anthony | 1962 ? | B | Sued | Franciscan | Three accusers filed a civil suit in 2004 naming "Friar Anthony James Warren" as an abuser in the Portland Archdiocese. Warren was forced to retire when the allegations surfaced. Settlement had been reached with one claimant when Archdiocesan bankruptcy froze the $350,000 settlement check. | Baker, OR | Source: The Oreganion 10.12.04; Table: The Oregonian 11.12.06; The Oregonian 6.06.07 (Documents) |
| Watkins | Thomas | P | Accused | Diocesan | Removed 2002. Accused of abuse. | Raleigh, NC | Source: News and Observer 8.25.02 | |
Weaver | Patrick | 1963 | P | Convicted | Diocesan | Weaver was a "spiritual adviser" to Bishop Guilfoyle. Original accusation rec'd in 1966. Diocese did nothing except promote and transfer him. Arrested 1985 and 1986 and charged with sex crimes. Convicted and placed on probation. Abused at least 6 boys. Named in 1994 RICO lawsuit. Permanently suspended. All RICO claims settled 3/03. | Camden, NJ | Source: Courier Post 4.14.02; Star Ledger 4.29.02; Philadelphia Inquirer 7.21.02; Star-Ledger 3.14.03; Philadelphia Inquirer 10.16.05; Philadelphia Inquirer 10.16.05 |
| Weber | David | 1977 | P | Accused | Diocesan | Weber, a member of Bishop Pilla's "inner circle" was placed on leave in 4/02 because of past allegations that he sexually abused a 16 year old boy. His name was not released on public list until diocese was pressured by the press. He was one of severalpriests who asked a judge to block diocese from turning over past medical records to the prosecutor's office. Charges against Weber were investigated by a grand jury in 2002. | Cleveland, OH | Source: Plain Dealer 4.12.02; Plain Dealer 4.26.02; Plain Dealer 5.05.02 |
| Weber | Francis J. | 1941 | P | Accused | Diocesan | Accused of abuse of 2 in 1959 per archdiocesan report. Died 1989. (DOB: 2/11/14). | Los Angeles, CA | Source: LA Archdiocesan Report 2.17.04 page 3 Assignments: LA Times Database 4.20.06 |
| Webester | Wynn | D | Accused | Deacon | Accused of abuse. Removed. | Spokane, WA | Source: Seattle Post-Intelligencer 7.23.03 | |
| Webster | Wynn | D | Accused | Diocesan | Wynn, a deacon serving in Brewster and Twisp, was removed from ministry in 7/03 after allegations that he violated Church guidelines for ministers in their interactions with minors. Unspecified incident involved teenage girl Police did interview the girl who made the allegations but decided to drop charges because Webster did not violate any criminal laws. Review board recommened his removal from diaconate. | Spokane, WA | Source: Spokesman Review 7.23.03 | |
| Weerts | Walter M. | 1960 | P | Convicted | Diocesan | Pled guilty in 1986 to abuse of 3 boys and was sentenced to 6 yrs in prison. Presentencing report says Weerts was sexually involved with boys for at least 18 yrs and officials knew of his problems. Served approx. 3 yrs. Was laicized during or shortly after release from prison. Diocese settled w/ 3 in 1987. 8 more claims settled 2004 for total of $1.2 million. New suit filed 11/07. | Springfield, IL | Source: United Press International 4.24.86; San Jose Mercury News 12.31.87; Palm Beach Post 12.24.98; Palm Beach Post 1.10.99; State Journal Register 10.31.99; St. Louis Post-Dispatch 9.16.03; State Journal Register 9.17.03; State Journal-Register 2.03.04; Belleville News Democrat 7.22.04; State Journal-Register 7.22.04; Madison County Record 11.14.07 |
| Weger | Justin K. | 1952 | P | Accused | Crosier Fathers and Brothers | Weger and 7 other Crosiers were removed from public ministry 10/02 after past abuse of minors. Per summary report of Third Party Investigation of Crosier order, Weger, who is retired and living in Phoenix, would be living under restriction at a long-term care senior housing facility. Weger served in Minnesota from 1953 to 1972, in Indiana from 1973 to 1974 and in Phoenix and Tucson areas from 1974 to the present. May not have had privileges in Phoenix. Died 2005. | St. Cloud, MN | Source: Arizona Republic 10.10.02; Star Tribune 10.10.02; Crosier Fathers & Brothers Newsletter, Spring 2005 |
| Wehrle | William | 1950 | P | Accused | Jesuit | Archdiocesan files show Wehrle was accused of sexual abuse in Baltimore in the mid-1980s and removed from his parish. Wehrle worked in Baltimore from 1982-1985. He was in Pittsburgh Diocese per the 1988, 1990 and 1995 Catholic Directories. He died in 1995. Name was on Baltimore's 9/02 list of accused priests and religious. | Baltimore, MD | Source: Baltimore Sun 9.26.02 |
| Weinheimer | William | P | Sued | Diocesan | In civil suit filed 2/08, man alleges that Weinheimer sexually abused him in 1954. Plaintiff has "love" letters that Weinheimer wrote to him at the time, beginning when the man was 9 yrs old. Weinheimer died 1/20/86. Diocese is investigating the allegations. | St. Augustine, FL | Source: First Coast News 2.13.08; News4JAX 2.13.08 | |
| Weitensteiner | Joseph | 1966 | P | Sued | Diocesan | Accused in 2005 of abuse of 2 boys in 70s & 80s at Morning Star Boys Ranch. Resigned as head of Ranch in 4/06. Denies all the allegations. Has taken a lie detector test and (reportedly) passed it. Results have not officially been released because trialsare pending as of 11/06. Named as a defendant in new suit filed 2/08 by 3 more former residents of the Ranch. | Spokane, WA | Source: Spokesman-Review 7.2.05; Seattle Post-Intelligencer (AP) 4.21.06; Seattle Post-Intelligencer (AP) 8.25.05; National Catholic Reporter 11.10.06; Spokesman-Review 1.04.07; Seattle Post-Intelligencer 2.15.08; Seattle Times 7.30.08 |
Weithman | Martin "Marty" V. | 1980 | P | Settled | Diocesan | Placed on leave in July 2002 after allegation he molested a teenage boy over a 6-yr period in late 1980s. Weithman denied allegation and threatened to sue accuser. Case settled for $115,000 in 2002. Review board found allegations credible. In 2003 Weithman was told to ask for laicization or Bishop would ask Vatican to laicize without consent. Weithman did not consent until 2004. Laicized in 2005. | Columbus, OH | Source: Columbus Dispatch 7.28.02; Columbus Dispatch 7.30.02; Columbus Dispatch 10.10.02; Columbus Dispatch 1.30.03; Columbus Dispatch 2.03.03; Columbus Dispatch 1.28.04; Columbus Dispatch 2.19.05; Columbus Dispatch 1.18.06 |
| Weitz | Wilfred | 1936 | P | Sued | Benedictine | Accused of abuse of 1 from 1959-1961 per archdiocesan report. Died 1991. Named in at least 1 lawsuit. | Los Angeles, CA | Source: LA Archdiocesan Report 2.17.04 page 6; LA Archdiocesan Report Addendum 11.15.05 Assignments: LA Times Database 4.20.06 |
| Welch | David P. | P | Accused | Diocesan | Accused of abuse. Died. | Springfield, MA | Source: Springfield Republican 2.9.04; Springfield Republican 8.17.04 | |
Welch | Leo | 1952 | P | Accused | Diocesan | Accused of abuse of at least 2 boys between 1959-1961 in 2002 civil suit. while he was assigned to Immaculate Conception parish in Bellevue. He admitted abuse in 2002. Left active priesthood in 1965 without permission and became certified social worker in 1974. Fired in 2002. | Toledo, OH | Source: Associated Press 6.24.02; Associated Press 7.5.02; Associated Press 7.14.02; Toledo Blade 12.1.02 (Major Account); Toledo Blade 12.1.02 (Major Account-Pt 2); Toledo Blade 12.1.02 (Major Account--pt. 3); Toledo Blade 12.1.02; Toledo Blade 3.30.04; Diocese of Toledo Status Report 2.17.05; Toledo Blade 7.31.05; Toledo Blade 7.15.07; Diocese of Toledo Status Report 4.8.08 |
Weldon (Bp) | Christopher J. | 1929 | P | Sued | Diocesan | Served as Bishop of Springfield from 1950-1977. Died in 1982. Sued in 2005. Accused of abuse of one boy from age 11-16. Diocese stated that it "found no basis of credibility to the claims." | Springfield, MA | Source: Republican 3.13.05; Burnett v. Bishop of Springfield, MA Superior Court No. 05-0331(B); Telegram & Gazette (AP) 3.31.05; BA.org list of U.S. Bishops Accused of Abuse 4.14.08 |
| Wellinger | John W. | 1970 | P | Sued | Diocesan | Wellinger took a personal leave 6/95. Three months later a young man came forward to allege that Wellinger had abused him in 1989. Diocese Wellinger from active priesthood 3/03 when he failed to return from leave (for health purposes). Suit filed 2004. Claims included in Diocese?s 9/07 $1.25 mil settlement as to 32 plaintiffs alleging abuse by 17 priests. | Pittsburgh, PA | Source: Associated Press 2.04.04; Pittsburgh Post-Gazette 2.05.04; Post-Gazette 7.05.04; Tribune-Review 7.07.04; KDKA 8.03.04; Post-Gazette 8.04.04; Post-Gazette 9.18.07 |
| Wells | Robert J. | 1958 | P | Accused | Redemptorist | Accused of abuse of a girl from age 10 to age 18. Girl notified Archdiocese in 1992, shortly after Wells died. His name not made public until 2004. The woman filed suit 12/05 and her claims were Included in 8/2006 settlement with Archdiocese. | Anchorage, AK | Source: Anchorage Daily News 3.31.04; Anchorage Daily News 4.2.04; Anchorage Daily News 12.23.05; Anchorage Daily News 9.27.06 |
Welsh | Joseph L. | 1968 | P | Accused | Diocesan | Asked to resign. Accused of abuse. | Boston, MA | Source: Boston Globe 9.12.02 Assignments: Boston Archdiocesan Assignment Record |
Welsh | Richard J. | 1952 | P | Accused | Diocesan | Welsh is shown on the Davenport Diocese's Creditors Committee website (in 2007) as having credible allegations against him. Name appears on 7/08 Diocesan Review Board list of clergy "credibly acused" of sexual abuse. Accused of abuse of 6 male minors,beginning in 1962. Died 1971. | Davenport, IA | Source: Davenport Diocese Creditors Committee Website 8.27.07; Quad-City Times 7.10.08; Hawk Eye 7.12.08; Quad-City Times 7.23.08 Assignments: Catholic Messenger 7.17.08; BA.org Concise Assignment Record |
Wempe | Michael Edwin | 1966 | P | Convicted | Diocesan | Accused of abuse of 13 from 1972-1995 per archdiocesan report. Sued several times from 2002 to 2003. Original criminal charges dropped due to Supreme Court ruling.Re-arrested 2003. Convicted 1 count 2006. Sentenced to 3 yrs prison in May, 2006. Included in 12/06 $60 mil settlement re 22 priests which covers all of the cases involving molestations that occurred since Mahony was named head of the diocese in 1985. Released on parole 02/07. | Los Angeles, CA | Source: LA Times 8.18.02; LA Times 6.27.03; Contra Costa Times (AP) 6.30.03; LA Archdiocesan Report 2.17.04 page 3; Tribune (AP) 8.17.04; National Catholic Reporter 3.18.05; Pasadena Star-News 11.20.05; BA.Org Official Catholic Directory Story re Wempe; LA Times 1.25.06; LA Times 2.23.06; KTLA 5.05.06; Desert Press 5.06.06; Contra Costa Times (AP) 7.29.06; LA Times 12.02.06; Ventura County Star 1.25.07 Assignments: LA Archdiocesan Report Addendum 11.15.05; LA Times Database 4.20.06 |
| Wendling | Louis E. | 1939 | P | Accused | Diocesan | One claim against Wendling is included in March 2008 $4.7 mil settlement with Debuque diocese re claims against 9 priests. One woman claimed she was abused by Wendling in 1947. Diocesan review board and Archbishop Hanus decided that allegation had not been substantiated. He died in 1969. | Dubuque, IA | Source: KCRG 4.10.08; G;pbe Gazette 4.10.08; Telegraph Herald 4.11.08 |
Weniger | Lawrence P. | P | Accused | Diocesan | Accused of fondling several boys in mid-1960s at Sacred Heart School and Church in Luzerne . One accuser says he cannot believe that diocese did not know of Weniger's behavior. Weniger died in 1972. Then-Bishop Timlin admitted in 2002 that several allegations had been received after Weniger's death. | Scranton, PA | Source: Wilkes Barre Times Leader 7.9.06; Wilkes Barre Times Leader 7.30.06 Assignments: Times Leader 7.9.06 | |
| Wernet | Carl | < 1953 | P | Sued | Diocesan | In 1992 a woman came forward to allege abuse as a child by Wernet. Her father had confronted Wernet and he admitted abuse. Diocese denied everything. She tacked up posters and 7 other women came forward. The 8 women filed suit in 9/03 alleging abuse between 1953-1967. Suit dismissed 2/97 on limitations issue. 21 more women (and men) came forward to allege abuse. Wernet's personnel filed destroyed when he died in 1980. At least one parent had complained to Diocese earlier. | Cleveland, OH | Source: Plain Dealer 11.01.92; Plain Dealer 9.04.93; Plain Dealer 7.26.95; Plain Dealer 2.06.97; Cleveland Plain Dealer 3.11.02; Plain Dealer 6.16.02 |
Weston | Michael Howard | 1973 | P | Accused | Diocesan | Newly identified as abuser in Chicago Archdiocesan Report of 3.23.06. Resigned 9.93. | Chicago, IL | Source: Chicago Archdiocesan Report 3.20.06 page 3 |
| Wetzler | Daniel | 1963 | P | Accused | Diocesan | Wetzler was placed on leave in Nov. 2002 after allegation that he molested a boy. Wetzler denied charges and passed polygraph. Investigation by Church and former Spokane police detective determined that Wetzler was innocent. Article says that the youth had indeed been abused by a counselor but that Wetzler had never acted as a counselor. RETURNED TO ACTIVE STATUS FEB. 2003 | Spokane, WA | Source: Seattle Times 2.23.03; Associated Press 2.23.03; Spokesman Review 5.04.07 |
| Wheeler | William | P | Sued | Diocesan | Sued 1996. Accused of abuse. Died 1994. | Wichita, KS | Source: Witchita Eagle 5.21.96 | |
| Whelan | Donald | < 1959 | P | Sued | Diocesan | Accused in 2/26/04 suit of sexually abusing a boy in 1964-65, beginning at age 12. Alleged abuse occurred in the rectory of St. John Vianney in the Bronx and on overnight beach trips, and included anal penetration. The suit misspells the priest's name as Whalen. | New York, NY | Source: Complaint 2.26.04; Newsday 2.28.04 |
| Whelan | Stephen (Steve) | 1969 | P | Sued | Salesian | Civll suit filed 2003 by man alleging abuse by Whelan when he was a student at Salesian High School 1969-early 1970s. Still active as of 8/05. Civil trial started 7/7/06. On 7/19/06 jury awarded plaintiff $600,000. Whelan was removed from his position after the verdict and resides at the provincial house. CA Appeals Court upheld verdict 8/08. | Oakland, CA | Source: ABC 7, 3.23.05; SF Weekly 1.5.06; Contra Costa Times 7.8.06; Contra Costa Times 7.12.06; West County Times 7.11.06; San Francisco 9.22.05; ABC30 7.19.06; Contra Costa Times 7.24.06; Renew America 12.1.06; San Francisco Weekly 8.15.07; City of Angels 3.19.08; San Jose Mercury News 4.1.08; Contra Costa Times 4.1.08; Renew America 8.26.08 |
| White | Clark S. | P | Accused | Diocesan | Removed 2002. Accused of abuse. | Ogdensburg, NY | Source: Press-Republican 7.2.02 | |
| White | Cosmas | 1961 | P | Sued | Benedictine | Prior to 7/02, 1 man filed suit alleging that White abused him during the 1964-1965 school year at Mount Angel Seminary Prep School. White "retired" without privileges after suit filed. Suit settled "for a nominal amount of money" 2 months after it was filed. Per 9/04 articles, the Order cleared White of the molestation charges and he will be allowed to resume public Mass and prayer. Review board found no evidence to support the allegation | Portland, OR | Source: Statesman Journal 11.19.02; Sunday Oregonian 7.07.02; The Oregonian 9.04.04; Table: The Oregonian 11.12.06 |
White | Harold Robert | 1960 | P | Sued | Diocesan | Sued in 2005 & 2006. At least 29 men and women have filed suits alleging abused by White when they were young teenagers. Archdiocese allegedly knew about White's behavior as early as 1960s but continued to move him. White worked in 11 parishes over 33 years, was out of active ministry since 1993 and was laicized by Vatican in 2004. Died 11/14/06 in Cancun, Mexico. Not deposed prior to death. 10 suits settled 1/07. Others settled 7/08. Three more filed 7/08. | Denver, CO | Source: Denver Post 7.26.05; Denver Post 8.01.05; Denver Post 8.18.05; Denver Post 8.24.05; Aspen Times 8.04.05; Rocky Mountain News 9.08.05; Denver Post 9.21.05; CBS 4 1.19.06; Denver Post 2.04.06; Denver Post 5.28.06; Rocky Mountain News 6.01.06; Denver Post 11.02.06; Denver Post 11.14.06; Denver Post 11.16.06; Rocky Mountain News 11.17.06 Assignments: Rocky Mountain News 9.14.07 (add'l article); Catholic News Agency 7.1.08 (add'l article); Denver Post 7.2.08 (add'l article); Rocky Mountain News 7.2.08 (add'l article); Denver Post 7.3.08 (add'l article); Documents |
| White | John J. "Jack" | 1957 | P | Accused | Diocesan | Close friend, business partner, and associate of Paul Shanley. Both White and Shanley were accused 9/03 of abuse of same boy in 1970s. White moved to Thailand in 2002 and died in 2004. | Boston, MA | Source: Boston Globe 2.25.04 |
White | Leroy E. | 1956 | P | Accused | Diocesan | Accused in 1991 of sexually touching a female minor. Also accused of touching several women. Sent for treatment out of state and returned to ministry. Reportedly retired 1994 and worked in Lansing diocese while in residence at parish there. Removed again in 2002 for the 1991 allegation. Restricted in 2004 by Vatican from working in Kalamazoo area. Retired in Lansing diocese. | Kalamazoo, MI | Source: Detroit Free Press 4.14.03; ABC 4.26.04 |
| White | Myles Patrick | 1968 | P | Convicted | Diocesan | White's abuse came to light in 1992 when he donated a video tape of parade to garage sale. The tape contained a 30 minute segment of White having sex w/ boy. When police arrested him, he was destroying pictures of boys. Sentenced to 4 yrs prison in 1993 in Illinois and similar sentence in Indiana. Released from prison in 1995. At least 4 suits settled by 11/95, including one where victim had killed himself 20 yrs after the abuse. | Joliet, IL | Source: Associated Press 7.29.92; Chicago Tribune (AP) 7.30.92; Chicago Sun-Times 7.30.92; Chicago Tribune 7.31.92; Associated Press 8.22.92; Chicago Tribune 12.10.92; Chicago Tribune 4.16.93; Chicago Tribune 5.10.93; Chicago Tribune 8.17.93; Chicago Tribune 12,01.94; Chicago Tribune 4.22.95; Herald News 5.05.02; The Herald News 2.15.06; Diocese of Joliet Press Release 4.09.06; Chicago Sun-Times 4.11.06 Assignments: Herald News 5.17.06 (add'l article) |
White | Paul David | 1961 | P | Settled | Diocesan | Settled 1998. Accused of abuse of boy. | Boston, MA | Source: Boston Globe 1.31.02 Assignments: Boston Archdiocesan Assignment Record |
| White | William F. | 1968 | P | Accused | Diocesan | 11 men have accused White of abuse between 1961 & 1993 when they were teens. Placed on leave in 1993. Diocese had complaints in 1979. In 1987 the Church received more complaints when family reported he had tried to molest 2 brothers on the night of their father's wake. | Buffalo, NY | Source: Buffalo News 3.08.94; Buffalo News 3.09.94; Buffalo News 3.11.94; Buffalo News 3.31.94; Buffalo News 5.29.94; Buffalo News 5.29.94; Buffalo News 4.02.02; USA Today 11.11.02 |
White | William T. | 1958 | P | Settled | Diocesan | Man told archdiocese in 1997 he had been abused by White for 3 years in 1970s when he was high school student. White was working in Palm Beach, Florida when accusations made. He was allowed to continue working after evaluation until 2002. Accuser settled with archdiocese in 1998 for $100,000 | New York, NY | Source: Sun-Sentinel 4.24.06; Journal News 4.03.02 (in collection of articles); NY Post 4.12.02 (in collection of articles); Palm Beach Post 2.28.04; Dallas Morning News 6.12.02 |
Whiteley | John J. | 1967 | P | Settled | Diocesan | Accused in 1991 suit of abusing David Clohessy 1969-73 from about age 12. Abuse included touching the boy's genitals and lying on top of him during trips, some of them out-of-state. Allegedly abused others including Clohessy's brother Kevin, later a priest and himself accused of abuse. College chaplain from 1983; Army reserve chaplain by 1990; chancery job 1991; resigned and disappeared 1992. Case dismissed 1992 after MO Supreme Court decision on new SOL law. Reportedly now a flight attendant. | Jefferson City, MO | Source: Columbia Missourian 9.7.90; Rolla Daily News 8.2.91; Columbia Missourian 8.4.91; Columbia Daily Tribune 8.6.91; Columbia Missourian 9.6.91; Columbia Daily Tribune 9.6.91; Columbia Daily Tribune 9.12.91; Columbia Daily Tribune 9.19.91; Columbia Missourian 2.9.92; Columbia Daily Tribune 2.15.92; Columbia Missourian 2.17.92; Post-Dispatch 4.08.02; Post-Dispatch 5.12.02; NY Times 5.12.02; The Pitch 10.16.03 Assignments: Journal of Religion & Abuse 6.2 2004 (add'l article) |
| Whitten | Carlton E. | 1961 | P | Accused | Jesuit | Placed on leave in Dec. 2007 and moved from his residence at Bellarmine College Preparatory (San Jose) to Sacred Heart, the Jesuit center in Los Gatos while his order investigates "an alleged recent incident of improper touching involving a 17 yr old youth while on a pastoral assignment" in White Salmon, Washington. Whitten is semi-retired and often filled in along the western coast states for priests on vacation or leave. Adult porn was also found on computer that Whitten used. | Yakima, WA | Source: San Jose Mercury News 12.21.07; Yakima Herald-Republic 12.22.07; San Jose Mercury News 12.22.07; White Salmon 1.02.08 |
| Wichmanowski | Joseph | P | Sued | Diocesan | One woman filed suit 2004 claiming that Wichmanowski molested her for a year, beginning when she was 12. He would give her wine and would have sex with her several times a week. Wichmanowski died in 1977. Claims included in Diocese's 9/07 $1.25 mil settlement as to 32 plaintiffs alleging abuse by 17 priests. | Pittsburgh, PA | Source: Pittsburgh Post-Gazette 4.29.04; Post-Gazette 9.18.07 | |
Widera | Seigfried Francis | 1967 | P | Indicted | Diocesan | Indicted 2002. 33 felony accounts. Committed suicide in Mexico in 2003. Sent to work in Orange, CA. with knowledge of his abusive behavior. 9 Civil suits in California and 3 in Milwaukee. Milwaukee cases claiming abuse from 1973-76 were dismissed on statute of limitations; upheld by Court of Appeals 8/06. Milwaukee Archdiocese settled with 9 Calif Plaintiffs for $16.65 mil 9/01/06. Court ordered his files released 2/07. Files show church knew of his history of abuse from beginning of his priesthood. | Milwaukee, WI | Source: Long Beach Press Telegram 5.5.03; Mercury News (AP) 5.27.03; Herald Tribune 10.03.03; LA Times 1.11.04; Milwaukee Journal Sentinel 4.29.04; Milwaukee Archdiocese List of Abusers 7.09.04; Orange County Weekly 7.09.04; LA Times 5.18.05; Orange County Register 5.18.05; LA Times 5.25.05; Grand Forks Herald 8.29.06; St. Paul Pioneer Press (AP) 8.30.06; Milwaukee Journal Sentinel 9.01.06; LA Times 2.07.07; Milwaukee Journal Sentinel 2.10.07 Assignments: Pioneer Press 7.11.07 (add'l article); Statement by Archbishop of Milwaukee 2.01.08; Orange County Weekly 3.04.05 |
Wieber | Raymond H. | 1969 | P | Accused | Diocesan | Accused of sexually abusing male teens. Lawsuit (later dropped) accusing Wieber of using alcohol and LSD in repeated and systematic sexual abuse in 1969-1970. He ran a popular youth program during the 1970s. Warnings about his character were noted in Wieber's personnel file even before his ordination but the Diocese made no efforts to supervise him. Wieber may even have been in therapy much earlier in his career. Died 1993. | Lafayette, IN | Source: Indianapolis Star 2.16.97; Indianapolis Star 2.16.97; Indianapolis Star 2.17.97; Journal & Courier 2.1.04 |
Wiebler | William F. | 1955 | P | Sued | Diocesan | Accusations of abuse made to Church in 1970s-1980s. Retired 1991. Several suits pending. Some claims settled in Davenport's 2004 settlement. One mediated to $180K settlement. Bishop ordered him to Vianney Renewal center in 2002 but he left 2004. Refused to return. Laicized 5/06. 12 more plaintiffs filed suit 5/06. Also worked in Jackson MS diocese. Died 9/06. Diocese acknowledged total of 29 accusers. | Davenport, IA | Source: Quad-City Times 4.2.04; Des Moines Register 7.8.04; Post Dispatch 9.19.04; Des Moines Register 9.21.04; Des Mointes Register 7.26.05; Press Citizen (AP) 5.12.06; St. Louis Post Dispatch 5.13.06; Courier 5.23.06; Gazette (AP) 10.4.06; Post Dispatch 10.4.06; Des Moines Register 10.12.06; Quad-City Times 10.15.06; Quad-City Times 11.12.06; Quad-City Times 11.26.06; Quad-City Times 4.8.07 Assignments: Iowa City Press-Citizen 2.11.08 (add'l article); Quad-City Times 7.10.08 (add'l article); Quad-City Times 7.18.08 (add'l article); BA.org Concise Assignment Record; BA.org Assignment Record; Catholic Messenger 7.17.08 |
Wiejata | Sylwester | 1996 | P | Accused | Diocesan | Accused of abuse of 13 yr old girl in 2000. In treatment in 1999 and on leave by 2000. Laicized in 2002. | Philadelphia, PA | Source: Philadelphia Grand Jury Report Assignments: Philadelphia Archdiocesan Priest Data Profile |
Wiggins | Charles W. | 1985 | P | Accused | Diocesan | Removed 2003. Accused of abuse. Name appears on list of abusive priests released by Bishop Saltarelli on Nov. 16, 2006. Removed from ministry 2003; lives in Norwood, PA | Wilmington, DE | Source: News Journal 1.28.03; News Journal 11.20.05 (Major Account); News Journal 11.20.05; The Dialog 11.16.06 Assignments: News Journal 11.16.06 |
| Wilcox | Gordon | P | Sued | Diocesan | Wilcox is named as an abuser of 1 male student in 1971 at Moreau High School in Hayward. He is included in 2004 suit against Donald Eagleson which was partially settled in 2005. Died Oct. 4, 1984.. | Santa Rosa, CA | Source: Press Democrat 7.21.06; San Jose Mercury News 4.01.08; Contra Costa Times 4.01.08 | |
| Wild | David | P | Sued | Diocesan | Sued 1992. Accused of abuse. | Fargo, ND | Source: Minot Daily News 9.25.92 | |
| Wildeman | Richard | P | Accused | Diocesan | Resigned. Admission of fondling girl, age 14. | Evansville, IN | Source: Associated Press 6.20.02 | |
| Wilfort | Jeanne | N | Sued | Sisters of Holy Cross | Accused in 1999 of sexually abusing a nun, age 27, in the Winnipeg archdiocese 1978-79. Wilfort was then superior of the order's Western Canada Province. Abuse allegedly included digital penetration and was represented as therapeutic. Complainant had been recruited from the Manchester NH diocese during a retreat by Wilfort. The Vatican investigated the charges in 2000. Complainant filed suit in 2002, but when she died in 2004, the suit was dismissed. Other victims are alleged, ages unspecified. | Manchester, NH | Source: McDonald Affidavit 5.10.02; McDonald Affidavit 5.30.02; Globe and Mail 6.25.02; Union Leader 6.2.03; Union Leader 8.2.03; Dalmyn 4.6.04 | |
| Wilkuski | Leonard | P | Accused |