Fr. Joseph Weitensteiner

Ordained: 1966
Status: Settled

Diocese: Diocese of Spokane WA

Accused in 2005 of abuse of two boys in the 1970s and ’80s at Morning Star Boys Ranch. Resigned as head of the Ranch in 4/06. Denied all allegations. Reportedly took a lie detector test and passed. Abuse alleged by 19 plaintiffs against Weitensteiner, Marvin Lavoy and others at the Ranch. In 11/09 Ranch transferred bulk of assets to nonprofit Morning Star Foundation. Jury decided in favor of defendant 2/11/10. Some plaintiffs received settlement from the Diocese earlier. A second trial was set for 6/10. Settlements in 5/12. Reinstated in 4/15 after each claim was denied or deemed non-credible by a retired federal judge hired by the Diocese.


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