Fr. Wilson F. Smart

Ordained: 1957
Status: Settled

Diocese: Diocese of Helena MT

Diocese knew of Smart’s attraction to boys by 1959. Received treatment in 1959 and 1969. Admitted molesting more than 30 boys 1957-78. A 1990 civil suit alleged Smart abused plaintiff at age 12 in 1967, and that the abuse continued until 1975. Settled in 1993, possibly for $1.7M. Named in at least three other suits which later settled. In 1993 the bishop admitted removing two letters from file which documented abuse. Named as abuser in amended suit in 10/11. Died 9/10/06. Included on the Helena diocese’s list posted to its website 4/29/15 in compliance with the non-monetary terms of the 3/5/15 bankruptcy settlement.


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