Bishop Lawrence D. Soens

Accused in 2002 of abusing three boys in the 1960s. One claim settled for $20K in 2004. Two suits were pending as of 5/2006. Seven new suits were filed in 5/2006. Apparently a new suit with 13 plaintiffs was filed in 8/2006 alleging abuse 1959-1967. In 2/2006 the diocese investigative panel found behavior may have been inappropriate, but did not appear to be sexual. It found him guilty of sexual abuse 11/3/2008. Included on the diocese’s list of credibly accused in 5/2009, noting accusations of abuse of 31 male minors. Twelve cases were dismissed in 5/2009. In 2018 a man stated publicly that he was abused by Soens and another priest while a young seminarian. Soens died in 11/2021, at age 95.
- Collection of Articles Prior to 12.31.07
- The Gazette 02.01.08
- Quad-City Times 02.16.08
- Quad-City Times 02.16.08
- Quad-City Times 02.16.08
- Quad-City Times 07.10.08
- Des Moines Register 11.03.08
- The Pilot 11.07.08
- Diocese of Davenport List 05.21.09
- The Gazette 05.29.09
- Quad-City Times 06.28.11
- Catholic Messenger 03.15.18
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