Fr. John M. Capparelli
Accused in 7/11 suit of abuse of a youth. Allegedly had boys wrestle in skimpy bathing suits and photographed them. Sold videos on web. Accused of groping plaintiff. Suit names Scouts and Diocese. Left active priesthood in mid-1980s. Privileges removed 1992; sent to treatment. Taught high school in Newark public schools for 20 years. At least 24 other men came forward with same complaints. Given non-teaching job 11/11. Another suit 12/11. Both settled in 2012. Surrendered public schools teaching license in 6/13. Laicized, possibly in 3/14. His appearance at an annual Family Festival at Our Lady of the Valley parish resulted in suspension without privileges by Paterson bishop of the pastor, Chris Di Lella, a long-time friend. On Newark archdiocese’s list 2/13/19. Died 3/6/19 of gunshot wound at his home in NV. Homicide investigation initiated. Reportedly had a history of hiring male prostitutes. Alleged shooter had answered Capparelli’s add for male wrestlers. New suit(s) in 7/20 claim abuse in the 1980s. By 11/21 accused in 20 lawsuits.
- Star-Ledger 10.16.11
- Star-Ledger 10.16.11
- WABC 10.17.11
- Post-Star 10.17.11
- Star-Ledger 10.23.11
- Star-Ledger 10.30.11
- Star-Ledger 11.01.11
- Star-Ledger 11.22.11
- Star-Ledger 11.22.11
- Star-Ledger 12.16.11
- NPR 01.03.12
- Star-Ledger 06.30.13
- The Record 05.23.14
- The Record 05.23.14
- Bishop’s Response in The Record 05.28.14
- Archdiocese of Newark Tobin Letter 02.13.19
- Archdiocese of Newark List 02.13.19
- NJ.com 03.12.19
- New York Post 03.13.19
- NOLA.com 03.14.19
- NJ.com 03.19.19
- Hudson Reporter 04.10.19
- The Review-Journal 06.03.19
- Daily Beast 06.14.19
- Associated Press 01.28.20
- NorthJersey.com 07.13.20
- NorthJersey.com 11.29.21
Sources:
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Our Database of Publicly Accused does not state or imply that individuals facing allegations are guilty of a crime or liable for civil claims. The reports contained in the database are merely allegations. The U.S. legal system presumes that a person accused of or charged with a crime is innocent until proven guilty. Similarly, individuals who may be defendants in civil actions are presumed not to be liable for such claims unless a plaintiff proves otherwise. Admissions of guilt or liability are not typically a part of civil or private settlements. For more information, see our posting policy.