Fr. Patrick J. O’Connor

Ordained: 1985
Status: Convicted

Diocese: Diocese of Cleveland OH

Removed in 9/2003 after the Diocese’s review board found credible a recent claim that O’Connor had sexually abused a child in the late 1980s at St. Joseph’s in Cuyahoga Falls (first assignment after ordination). He denied the allegation. Teaching at Borromeo Seminary in 2003. Cleared by the Vatican and returned to active status in 9/2007 with restrictions. “Resigned from priesthood” in 6/2008 after allegations of abuse of a 15-year-old boy in 1997. Indicted in 8/2009. Pleaded guilty in 9/2009. Sentenced to 90 days in jail in 12/2009. Sued by accuser in 7/2011. Laicized, per the diocese’s list in 6/2019.

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