Fr. Laurence F.X. Brett

Accused of abusing over two dozen altar boys and others, ages 10-18, throughout his priesthood, in CT, NM, CA, MD and Mexico. Two known female victims. Sent by the Bridgeport diocese to  Servants of the Paraclete in NM for treatment in 1964, after parents of one victim complained to the papal nuncio and Brett admitted abuse. Bishop Curtis wrote in a memo that “hepatitis was to be feigned” as the reason Brett was leaving. Settlement for $250K in 1994 to two victims molested in Sacramento, CA. Chaplain at Calvert Hall in Baltimore 1972-1974; at least 14 former students alleged abuse. In MD Brett produced widely used Share the Word materials 1974-1993. In 1990 Bishop Egan met Brett, who ‘made a good impression’. Egan removed him from ministry in 1993 when suit was filed v Bridgeport diocese. It settled for $750K. Fled to the  Caribbean in 1993; reportedly continued contact with children there. People connected to the Church knew his whereabouts and visited him, not telling law enforcement. Located in 2002 by reporters; fled again. Included on Baltimore archdiocese’s list 9/25/2002. Laicized in 2006. Named in 2008 civil suit. Settlement in 2008 for $80K. Died 12/25/2010. On Santa Fe archdiocese list 9/12/2017. Included in the 4/5/2023 MD Attorney General’s Report.