Fr. John P. Smyth
Assigned in 1962 to Maryville Academy in Des Plaines, which was a residential treatment facility for abused children; superintendent 1970-2003. Removed in 2003 after a resident’s suicide and allegations of abuse among residents. President of Notre Dame College Prep in Niles 2007-14. Retired. Suspended in 1/19 after allegations of sexual abuse of two boys, ages 13 and 14, occurring in 2002-03. One of the boys reportedly came forward shortly after the alleged abuse, but no action. Smyth’s lawyer said the allegations were “false.” Smyth died 4/16/19. The Dept. of Children and Family Services deemed the allegations to be “unfounded,” saying, in part, that Smyth’s death meant he could no longer be a threat to children, so there was no reason to investigate. Suit filed in 9/19, claiming abuse of a boy at Maryville 2001-04, starting age 11.
- Daily Herald 01.18.19
- National Catholic Reporter 01.18.19
- NBC Channel 5 01.18.19
- WLS TV 01.20.19
- Chicago Sun-Times 01.21.19
- Standing Tall Foundation Smyth Bio accessed 02.01.19
- Herald Review 04.17.19
- Patch 04.17.19
- National Catholic Reporter 05.02.19
- Journal & Topics 06.17.19
- WGN 06.18.19
- CBS 2 Chicago 09.14.19
- WLS TV 09.17.19
- Associated Press 12.20.19
- Chicago Tribune 11.22.21
Sources:
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