Fr. James A. Holtz
Holtz resigned from his position 8/2002 after the Diocese investigated a report that he had sexually abused a minor in the early 1980s while under the influence of alcohol. He had received treatment for alcohol abuse in the mid-1980s. Had been adjutant judicial vicar on the Diocesan Tribunal. Permanently removed in 2002. Reportedly, Bishop Raica was told in 2016 that Holtz was working as a sacristan and was seen helping an altar boy with his belt. Included on the Diocese’s list of credibly accused in 2018. Its updated list in 4/2021 shows that Holtz had been laicized. Included in the MI Attorney General’s 1/8/2024 Gaylord report. Accused in 1988 of abuse of a boy, age 12 or 13, in 1983 or 1984, after plying him with alcohol. Holtz’s victim told Bishop Cooney in 2002 that he knew of two other boys who may have been abused, one who attempted suicide and the other who died by suicide. In 2017 a woman alleged abuse by Holtz 1/1982-12/1986, beginning when she was 19. Allegation in 2019 that Holtz drugged and abused two boys in the mid-1970s.
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