Fr. Michael J. O’Brien
Placed on leave in 9/2021 after the Archdiocese received a report that O’Brien abused an altar boy in the early 2000s. His accuser filed a lawsuit in 12/2021, alleging that O’Brien sexually assaulted him over four years, beginning in 2004 when he was age 7. O’Brien would allegedly beat the boy if he did not comply with his sexual demands. O’Brien was assigned to St. Mary’s in Aspen 2002-2011, went on sabbatical for 6 months for health reasons, then was assigned as pastor to St. Anthony’s in Julesburg. He denied the allegations. In 4/2023 the Archdiocese announced that law enforcement had determined that the allegations were “baseless” and the criminal case was closed. After the Archdiocese’s investigation concluded it was announced that O’Brien would be returned to ministry 7/1/2023. A civil trial scheduled for 12/2023 was cancelled in 7/2023.
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.