Fr. Arno Dennerlein

Donate Photo
Ordained: 1969
Status: Sued

Diocese: Diocese of Joliet IL

In 2/2003 two brothers told Joliet police that Dennerlein had sexually abused them when they were boys in the  1970s. Dennerlein denied the allegations. Removed. In 10/2003 he challenged the credibility of his accusers but did refer to “a single, momentary incident” involving one of the boys. In 10/2003 the Diocesan Review Board deemed one of the allegations credible. Suit filed in 10/2003 by another set of brothers alleging abuse in the 1960s. Dismissed due to the statute of limitations. Review Board deemed allegations not credible. In 2006 another man alleged abuse at age 13 by Dennerlein. Review Board again said not credible. Included in 2006 on the diocese’s list of credibly accused. Allegation in 2008 of abuse 1971 and 1972. Not substantiated, per Review Board. Canonical process was pending when Dennerlein died in 2021. Included in the 5/23/2023 IL Attorney General’s Report. 


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