Fr. Arnold E. Kelley
Initial allegation of past abuse at St. Rita’s in Lowell made in 11/97. Diocesan Review Board found no credible evidence and Kelley agreed to move. In 4/02, Personnel Committee learned of a second allegation against Kelley. A woman said she reported it to Sr. Rita McCarthy at the time and that McCarthy said there were no other allegations against Kelley. Per the 8/11 Boston archdiocese’s list, the allegations were unsubstantiated. Retired without restrictions. In 10/15 was ‘senior priest’ and in residence at All Saints in Haverhill. Accused in suit filed in 4/16 of abuse of boy, age 10-13, 1973-76 at St.Thomas Aquinas in Jamaica Plain. Alleged abuse include oral sex and sodomy. Kelley denied abuse. Settled in 1/18. Reportedly died 3/17/20 in Lawrence, MA although his death is not indicated on the archdiocese’s list in 8/22.
- McCarthy Memo 11.03.97
- Cardinal Law & Review Board Memos 01.31.98
- Magni Letter 04.20.02
- National Catholic Register 08.25.11
- Plaintiff Complaint v Kelley 04.29.16
- Eagle-Tribune 05.17.16
- Fox 25 05.18.16
- The Eagle-Tribune 05.19.16
- Eagle Tribune 04.28.17
- Lowell Sun 01.02.18
- Eagle Tribune 01.02.18
- Jamaica Plain News 01.05.18
- Mass Live 05.07.19
- Boston Archdiocese List 08.18.22
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