Fr. John P. Hess

Ordained: 1983
Status: Guilty plea

Diocese: Archdiocese of St. Louis MO

Hess pleaded guilty in 5/2002 to one felony count of possessing child pornography received over the internet. Federal agents seized Hess’ computer from rectory in 3/2002 as part of Operation Candyman sting. Allowed to change guilty plea from possession of child pornography to a lesser charge of possession of obscene materials. Sentenced in 2003 to 3 months in a halfway house, 5 years probation, and a fine of $5,000. Removed from ministry. Included on the Archdiocese’s 7/26/2019 list of credibly accused .


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