Fr. Robert L. Melancon

Ordained: 1962
Status: Convicted

Died: 11/5/2018
Diocese: Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux LA

Arrested in 6/1995. Had already been placed on leave and sent for therapy. Charged with raping an 8-year-old altar boy repeatedly 1985-1991. In 7/1995 someone gave Melancon’s attorney a $1M cashier’s check to pay for bail. Convicted in 6/1996. Sentenced to life without parole. Accuser settled a civil suit with diocese for $800K. Church paid $30K in 1993 to settle with another person who had a “relationship” with Melancon as a minor. Melancon was reported to have admitted during trial to “sexual relationship” with a 12-year-old at St. Genevieve’s in Thibodaux. Died in prison 11/5/2018, age 82. Included on the diocese’s list 1/11/2019.


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.