Fr. Thomas G. Rainforth

Ordained: 1973
Status: Settled

Diocese: Diocese of Paterson NJ

Accused in 7/02 by a man of molestation in 1975. Placed on leave. Returned to ministry in 8/02 after diocese said Rainforth was drunk and behavior was inappropriate but did not meet definition of abuse. Sued in 2004 by another man. Claim included in 2/05 $5M settlement with 27 plaintiffs, most of whom were abused by Rev. James Hanley. Rainforth’s accuser later died of a drug overdose. In a 12/19 suit Rainforth was accused of sexual abuse by another man, who also alleged abuse as a boy by Hanley. Rainforth is “recently” deceased, per the diocese in 12/19.


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