Bishop Michael J. Bransfield

Ordained: 1971
Status: Settled

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Named Wheeling-Charleston bishop 2005. Accused of abuse of boys in testimony in 4/12 trial of Lynn/ Brennan in PA. Bransfield denied. Resigned 9/13/18 after Pope ordered investigation into allegations of sexual harassment of adults and financial misdoings. Ministry restricted 3/19. Suit filed 3/22 by former personal altar server and secretary claimed Bransfield sexually harassed him for years and sexually assaulted him in 2014. Also, that he sexually abused J.E. and other adolescent and adult males, and diocese was aware in 2007 but no action. Settled 8/19. In 6/19 diocese said Bransfield sexually harassed young priests and misused funds. Gave large sums of money to cardinals, bishops and priests over the years. In 7/18 Pope said Bransfield must make amends, can’t live in the diocese or celebrate liturgy publicly. Suit filed 9/19 by recent seminarian. Allegation 10/19 of inappropriate touch in 2012 of a 9-year-old girl. He denied.

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