Fr. John Anthony Mary Engbers
Accused of abuse of at least nine young girls in the early 1950s to the 1970s. Four known lawsuits. Suit in 1985, settled in 2001 claimed abuse in Lake Charles of two girls, ages 3 and 6 or 7 in the early 1950s. Parents reportedly confronted Engbers, who admitted the abuse with the pastor present. Engbers was moved to another church. Another 1985 suit claimed abuse beginning 1957 of sisters ages 5 and 7, lasting into their teens. Fled to Holland in 1985 after removal from his position when Church learned of suits. Per 1989 suit, abused 3- or 4-year-old girl in Gueydan the early 1970s. Settled 1996. Engbers died in 1989. On diocese’s list in 4/19.
- United Press International 11.15.85
- United Press International 11.25.85
- Associated Press 11.26.85
- United Press International 01.02.86
- Times of Acadiana 01.30.86
- Associated Press 02.15.87
- LA Times 03.20.88
- National Law Journal 04.04.88
- The Gueydan Journal 09.14.89
- Advertiser 08.23.14
- The Advocate 09.07.14
- Daily Advertiser 08.09.17
- KATC 01.13.19
- Diocese of Lafayette List 04.12.19
Assignments:
Sources:
Return to main database page. See abbreviations and posting policy. Send corrections.
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.