Fr. Donald G. O’Connor

Ordained: 1964
Status: Accused

Died: 11/15/2011
Diocese: Diocese of Joliet IL

O’Connor’s mental stability had been questioned when he was a seminarian. Removed from ministry in 5/2002 after the diocesan officials learned of allegations that he abused an adolescent boy 1967-1970. Allegations were substantiated and O’Connor “acknowledged that the incident had occurred.” Other accusers also known. Former police chaplain. Included in 4/2006 on the diocese’s list of credibly accused. Died in 2011. Revealed 5/16/2013 that even after privileges were removed, he was paid to say mass intentions (stipends). Diocese agreed to release of personnel files in 3/2013 as part of a settlement in Rudofski v Joliet & Bennett. Files released 4/30/2014. Included in the 5/23/2023 IL Attorney General’s Report, which notes 6 “reported survivors.”


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