Fr. Joseph J. Lieberth
On a 4/2002 list of priests in the Cleveland diocese who had been accused in the past of sexual abuse. Had received evaluation and treatment and was returned to ministry. Admitted molesting the 17-year-old son of a church deacon, during a trip to CA in 1986. Lieberth referred to it as an “isolated incident” and auxiliary bishop Quinn persuaded the victim and family not to call police. Another accuser came forward in 2002 alleging abuse on trip in 1985. A civil suit was filed in 7/2002 by the first accuser. Still on leave 2009. Diocese announced in 3/2015 that Lieberth was given “a life of prayer and penance.” Included on the diocese’s list of credibly accused.
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.