Fr. Bernard P. Knoth

Order: SJ
Ordained: 1977
Status: Accused

Diocese: Archdiocese of Indianapolis IN

Resigned in 2003 as president of Loyola University in New Orleans after allegations that he sexually abused a student at Brebeuf Jesuit Prep in Indianapolis, where he was principal 1986-1988. Prior to New Orleans, Knoth worked at universities in Washington DC and Chicago. The abuse is alleged to have occurred in 1986. He denied it. Order deemed complaint credible. Privileges removed. As of 1/2007 Knoth was working in private business in Sarasota, FL. Laicized 8/29/2009. On the Indianapolis archdiocese’s list 10/12/2018. On the New Orleans archdiocese’s list 11/2/2018. On Jesuits Central and Southern Province list 12/7/2018. On Jesuits Midwest list 12/17/2018. Multiple allegations noted. Included in the 5/23/2023 IL Attorney General’s Report.


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.