Fr. Louis P. Peterson

Ordained: 1974
Status: Accused

Diocese: Diocese of Belleville IL

Accused of molesting a teenage boy sometime 1992-1994. Stepped down voluntarily in 1/1994 during investigation. Permanently removed in 11/1995 from active ministry by the Fitness Review Board. Not enough evidence for police to prosecute. By 7/2002 he had requested a “third stage review” by Bishop Gregory, who found no reason to return him to active ministry. Peterson appealed to the Vatican. On 1/24/2009 the diocesan website gave his status as “Administrative Leave/Retired.” Included on the diocese’s list of credibly accused 12/19/2018. Included in the 5/23/2023 IL Attorney General’s Report, which notes two “reported survivors.”


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