Fr. Craig F. Harrison

Ordained: 1987
Status: Accused

Diocese: Diocese of Fresno CA

Monsignor. Sheriff’s Office and Police chaplain. Adopted 8 boys. Suspended in 4/19; investigation of inappropriate touch of a boy, ages 14-16, decades prior in Firebaugh. Report to diocese in 4/12; diocese told police three days later. Harrison denied the claims. The Bakersfield community responded with overwhelming support for Harrison. In late 4/19 two more men alleged  abuse as minors by Harrison. One of them had reported in 1998 and again in 2002 that Harrison abused him in Firebaugh in 1998. Unsubstantiated, per diocese in 2002. Case closed by Bakersfield police in 6/19. Fresno diocese continued to investigate. Harrison filed a slander lawsuit in 8/19 against the Roman Catholic Faithful, a group publicizing claims Harrison abused in Firebaugh. He also sued the diocese and a monk. Merced County DA said in 11/19 no charges due to the statute of limitations. In 2/20 the Fresno DA said no charges due to the statute of limitations, but allegations appeared credible. Resigned priesthood in 2/21. Two suits filed in 6/21. Included on the Fresno diocese’s list in 8/21 of credibly accused.


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