Diocese of Springfield MA

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Terry McKiernan February 26, 2021

67 Accused in This Diocese

Fr. William Edward F. Allen

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Ordained: 1931
Status: Accused

Diocese: Diocese of Springfield MA

Named publicly as credibly accused by the diocese on its list 6/2/21. One known allegation of abuse, occurring in 1943. Left the diocese in 1954. By 1955 was at a parish in Cottonport, LA. Was in Shreveport by 1968. Per the 1979 Official Catholic Directory, Allen was "on duty outside the diocese" in Miami Beach, FL. In 1997 he was retired and living in Chicopee, MA. Remained a priest of the Diocese of Springfield. Died in 1998.

Assignments:

Diocese of Springfield List updated 06.02.21

Sources:

Diocese of Springfield List updated 06.02.21

Fr. Paul J. Archambault

Ordained: 2005
Status: Settled

Diocese: Diocese of Springfield MA

Chaplain at Baystate Medical Center and a part-time parochial vicar at St. Mary Parish in Hampden. Died by suicide 7/3/11 at rectory of Our Lady of the Sacred Heart, where he lived, after being confronted with abuse allegations. On 7/10/13, a 20-year-old man filed a civil suit alleging abuse by Archambault at St. Patrick's in Chicopee over a four-year period, starting when he was age 13. He alleges the diocese and pastor failed to protect him from Archambault. In 3/16 the diocese settled and added Archimbault's name to its list of credibly accused priests. Per Its updated list in 6/21, there was more than one credible allegation.

Assignments:

Diocese of Springfield List updated 06.02.21

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Fr. Henry Auger

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Ordained: 1923
Status: Accused

Diocese: Diocese of Springfield MA

Named publicly as credibly accused by the diocese on its list 6/2/21. Accused of the sexual abuse of a minor 1965-67. Assigned to parishes that became part of the Worcester diocese after it was created in 1950. Died in 1968.

Assignments:

Diocese of Springfield List updated 06.02.21

Sources:

Diocese of Springfield List updated 06.02.21

Fr. Edward George Authier

Ordained: 1930
Status: Accused

Diocese: Diocese of Springfield MA

Name surfaced publicly as accused 5/29/19. His accuser was a 67-year-old man who also alleged abuse as a boy by Bishop Weldon, and by Rev. Clarence Forand at St. Anne's in Chicopee. The allegations were deemed credible by the Diocesan Review Board in 9/18. Authier died in 1970. Included on the diocese's list 6/2/21 of credibly accused, for abuse of a minor alleged to have occurred in 1960.

Assignments:

Diocese of Springfield List updated 06.02.21

Sources:

Berkshire Eagle 05.29.19
Springfield Republican 06.21.20
Mass Live 07.11.20
Diocese of Springfield List updated 06.02.21

Fr. Gerald Beauregard

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Status: Settled

Diocese: Diocese of Springfield MA

At least one claim included in Diocese's 11/08 $4.5M settlement with 59 plaintiffs. Deceased per 2008 Diocese of Springfield Directory (necrology).

Sources:

Press Release by The Office of Stobierski & Stobierski, 12.03.08

Fr. Joseph Rosario G. Beauregard

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Ordained: 1943
Status: Accused

Diocese: Diocese of Springfield MA

Known as Rev. Gerald R. Beauregard. Named publicly as accused by the diocese on its list 6/2/21. Abuse of a minor allegedly occurred in the 1940s. Beauregard died in 1982.

Assignments:

Diocese of Springfield List updated 06.02.21

Sources:

Diocese of Springfield List updated 06.02.21

Fr. George A. Berthiaume

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Ordained: 1945
Status: Sued

Diocese: Diocese of Springfield MA

Accused of abuse by one man, who also alleged abuse by other priests and two bishops in Springfield and Worcester dioceses. Complainant reportedly passed two polygraph tests. Worcester diocese investigated "several years ago" and deemed claims not credible. Springfield diocese stated that nothing in its files corroborates the allegations. Plaintiff in a Texas prison for an unrelated murder. Berthiaume died 12/3/85.

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Fr. Albert Rene Blanchard

Ordained: 1966
Status: Settled

Diocese: Diocese of Springfield MA

A woman told the diocese in 1993 that she sought counseling from Blanchard in 1971 at age 15. He was 30. The "relationship" lasted four years. He left the priesthood in 1977, was laicized in 6/80 and married. In 1993 the woman, the diocese and Blanchard settled after the review board found the allegations credible. In 2009 she complained after learning that he was working as a volunteer "social worker/ spiritual care coordinator" for the diocese resource group. It took the diocese a year to finally remove him. Included on the diocese's list of credibly accused in 3/16. Its list updated in 6/21 shows his middle name as Rene.

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Fr. John J. Bonzagni

Ordained: 1980
Status: Settled

Diocese: Diocese of Springfield MA

A woman filed suit in 2003 alleging she was fondled by Bonzagni on three occasions when she was 16 and preparing for confirmation. She said she notified the diocese twice, the first time in 2002. Her claims settled in 8/04 as part of $7.5M settlement reached between 45 claimants and the Springfield diocese involving 18 priests. Bonzagni was cleared by diocese in 11/04. Named monsignor in 12/06. Head of the pastoral planning office in 2008. Named co-vicar of the diocese in 7/15. Named leader of three parishes in 12/15.

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Fr. Paul T. Boudreau

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Ordained: 1955
Status: Settled

Diocese: Diocese of Springfield MA

One claim was included in a 2004 $7.5M settlement between 45 claimants and the Diocese of Springfield involving 18 priests. First public mention of his name. Suspended in 1991 after being on leave for several years. Reportedly "abandoned priesthood."

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Fr. Donald A. Desilets

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Ordained: 1952
Status: Settled

Diocese: Diocese of Springfield MA

Desilets was disciplined by the Diocesan Misconduct Commission and barred from public ministry in the early 1990s after he allegedly molested two boys at Precious Blood Church in Holyoke. He was allowed to retire and join the Sulpician Fathers in Montreal to help prepare young men for the priesthood. He died 4/28/01. One claim was settled in 2004 and another in 2008 as part of larger settlements. Included on the diocese's list in 3/16.

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Diocese of Springfield List updated 06.02.21

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Fr. Michael H. Devlin

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Ordained: 1968
Status: Settled

Diocese: Diocese of Springfield MA

Placed on leave in 12/04. Named in a civil suit in 1/05 after allegations that he had abused a minor in the mid-1970s while parochial vicar at St. Thomas the Apostle in West Springfield and at All Souls in Springfield. Review Board found allegations credible. Devlin denied the allegations. One claim was included in an 11/08 $4.5M settlement with the Diocese.Canonical trial ordered - in process per Diocese's 8/11 list. Per the diocese's list updated in 6/21, Devlin died in 2021.

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Diocese of Springfield List updated 06.02.21

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Fr. Frederick George Dion

Ordained: 1953
Status: Settled

Diocese: Diocese of Springfield MA

At least one claim was included in the Diocese's 11/08 $4.5M settlement with 59 plaintiffs. Died in 1991. Name included on the diocese's list 6/2/21 of credibly accused. Noted to have allegedly sexually abused a minor in 1957.

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Diocese of Springfield List updated 06.02.21

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Fr. Bernard L. Doheny

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Status: Sued

Diocese: Diocese of Springfield MA

A 3/05 civil suit alleges plaintiff was abused by Doheny for 4 years, beginning at age 10. The same suit alleges that plaintiff was abused by his uncle (Msgr. Page), other priests and two separate bishops. Plaintiff was in a Texas prison for an unrelated murder when the suit was filed. Worcester diocese said the allegations not credible.Doheny died in 1965.

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Fr. John Paul Donahue

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Ordained: 1958
Status: Accused

Diocese: Diocese of Springfield MA

Named publicly as accused by the diocese on its list updated 6/2/21. Multiple credible allegations of abuse 1961-62. Worked in the diocese until 1962, then a U.S. Air Force Chaplain until his death at age 37 on 2/16/71.

Assignments:

Diocese of Springfield List updated 06.02.21

Sources:

Boston Evening Globe Obituary 02.19.71
Diocese of Springfield List updated 06.02.21

Fr. Jude Dowling

Ordained: 1954
Status: Accused

Diocese: Diocese of Springfield MA

Named publicly as credibly accused by the Springfield MA diocese on its list 6/2/21. Worked in the diocese 1978-93. Multiple allegations of abuse, occurring 1969-75 and 1980-85. Died 10/17/01.

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Diocese of Springfield MA List updated 06.02.21

Sources:

Hartford Courant Obituary 10.21.01
Diocese of Springfield MA List updated 06.02.21

Fr. Eugene Adalbert Dranka

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Ordained: 1944
Status: Settled

Diocese: Diocese of Springfield MA

Two people settled claims against Dranka as part of 2004 $7.5M settlement reached between 45 claimants and the Diocese of Springfield involving 18 priests. This was first time Dranka had been publicly identified as accused. From Three Rivers. Worked in parishes in Westfield and Bondsville as well as LaSallette settings in TX and NH. Died at age 66 in 1974. Added to the Springfield diocese's list 5/2/21, with multiple credible allegations noted, occurring 1966-68. Assigned to the diocese 1964-74.

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Diocese of Springfield List updated 06.02.21

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Fr. Donald V. Dube

Ordained: 1961
Status: Settled

Diocese: Diocese of Springfield MA

Removed from parish ministry in 1994 as a result of sexual misconduct. Privileges removed in 2002. Died in 12/03. In 5/04 a man filed suit against Dube's estate, alleging that Dube abused him between the ages of 8 and 10 when he was an altar boy. One person settled claims in 8/04 against Dube as part of a $7.5M settlement between 45 claimants and the Diocese of Springfield involving 18 priests. Included in 6/21 on the diocese's list of credibly accused; multiple allegations of abuse of minors, occurring 1977-78.

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Diocese of Springfield List updated 06.02.21

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Fr. W. Francois Dufresne

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Ordained: 1933
Status: Accused

Diocese: Diocese of Springfield MA

Named publicly as credibly accused by the diocese on its list 6/2/21. Allegedly abused a minor in 1955. Dufresne died in 1983.

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Diocese of Springfield List updated 06.02.21

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Diocese of Springfield List updated 06.02.21

Bishop Thomas Ludger Dupre

Ordained: 1959
Status: Settled

Diocese: Diocese of Springfield MA

Named auxiliary bishop in 1990. Bishop of Springfield 1995-2004. Accused in 2004 of abuse of two youths in the 1970s. Resigned same day; sent to St. Luke's for treatment, there for several years. Sued 2004. Indicted on two counts of rape in 2004; no prosecution due to SOL. Living at DC retirement home as of 5/10. Two claims included in diocese's 11/08 $4.5M settlement with 59 plaintiffs. Dupre made a financial contribution to settlement. Named in 2009 and 2010 suits as having reassigned abusive priests who went on to abuse those plaintiffs. Settlement of 2009 case in 7/12. Dupre died 12/30/16. Included on the diocese's list of credibly accused, which notes allegations he abused in the 1970s and '80s.

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Fr. John F. Egan

Ordained: 1930
Status: Accused

Diocese: Diocese of Springfield MA

Named publicly as credibly accused by the diocese on its list 6/2/21. Multiple allegations of abuse occurring 1954-55. Per news in 1970, Egan was ordained for the Trappists, leaving after 19 years due to ill health. Assigned to St. Mary's in Pittsfield MA 1952-1970. Died in 1974.

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Diocese of Springfield List updated 06.02.21

Sources:

Berkshire Eagle 05.16.70
Diocese of Springfield List updated 06.02.21

Fr. David M. Farland

Ordained: 1974
Status: Accused

Diocese: Diocese of Springfield MA

Permanently removed from ministry in 2002. Name not publicly released until 3/06. Accusation in the early 1990s of abuse of a minor i1984-88. The matter was handled internally by his superiors who removed Farland from any ministry with access to minors, according to Diocesan spokesman. On medical leave in 1994. Last assignment was St. Michael's Cathedral. Given 'life of prayer and penance.' Included on the diocese's list of credibly accused.

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Diocese of Springfield List updated 06.02.21

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Fr. Joseph Clarence W. Forand

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Ordained: 1945
Status: Settled

Diocese: Diocese of Springfield MA

A man told the diocese in 1993 that Forand molested him for several years, beginning when he was age 8 or 9. Misconduct Committee did nothing because Forand had already retired. Forand continued to assist as retired priest until 2002 norms were issued. His privileges were removed at age 85. One claim settled as part of 2004 $7.5M settlement reached between 45 claimants and the Diocese of Springfield, involving 18 priests. Placed under prayer and penance until his death in 5/05. In 2018 a 67-year-old man told the Diocesan Review Board that he was abused as a boy by Forand, Rev. Edward Authier and Bishop Weldon. The allegations were deemed credible. Included on the diocese's list of credibly accused.

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Diocese of Springfield List updated 06.02.21

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Fr. Oscar A. Gatineau

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Ordained: 1951
Status: Sued

Diocese: Diocese of Springfield MA

A 3/05 civil suit alleges plaintiff was abused as a boy by Gatineau for about a year. Suit said Gatineau saw plaintiff abused by another priest and did nothing. Same suit alleges that plaintiff was abused by his uncle (Msgr. Page), other priests and two separate bishops. Plaintiff was in a Texas prison for an unrelated murder when suit filed. Worcester diocese said allegations not credible. Gatineau died in 1964.

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Br. Lawrence Gauthier

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Order: SCJ
Status: Sued

Diocese: Diocese of Springfield MA

In a suit filed in 3/02 a man alleged that Gauthier sexually abused him many times when he was ages 9-12, during 1969-72, at Immaculate Heart of Mary Seminary. He also claimed that there were at least 7-10 victims. The man said he had attempted suicide 15-20 times. In 2002 Gautheir was retired.

Sources:

Springfield Republican 03.28.02
Berkshire Eagle (MA) 03.29.02

Fr. Daniel L. Gill

Ordained: 1958
Status: Settled

Died: 07/15/1995
Diocese: Diocese of Springfield MA

In 2002 a woman reported to the diocese that, beginning on the day of her First Communion in the late 1960s when she was about age 8, and repeatedly until she was 12, Gill sexually abused her. Gill was the "family priest," assigned to St. Charles in Pittsfield. She alleged that the abuse involved groping and fondling and would take place at family gatherings such as picnics, trips to the beach and sleepovers. She received a settlement from the diocese in 2008. The diocese told her that another woman had come forward in 1992 claiming that she was abused by Gill at age 15. Gill died in 1995. Reportedly in 8/21 a parishioner confronted Gill in 1977 after a 14-year-old girl told him that Gill was molesting her in his rectory bedroom at St. Charles. The parishioner informed the senior priest at the parish. Gill was soon transferred to a parish in Brimfield. In 8/21 the diocese stated that it had received three complaints of child sexual abuse by Gill.

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Fr. Alfred C. Graves

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Ordained: 1967
Status: Settled

Diocese: Diocese of Springfield MA

One claim of abuse was part of an 8/04 settlement involving 18 priests. Also named in a 12/04 suit by plaintiff who alleged Graves raped him 1969-71, starting at age 15. Graves was inactive and with a monitored status after diocese found allegations credible. Removed from retirement home job in 7/02. Laicization announced 12/01/06. One claim in 2008 settlement. New suit in 9/09 accused two former bishops of knowingly allowing abuse by Graves of a boy 1982-84. Settled 7/27/12 for $500K after trial began. Included on the diocese's list of credibly accused.

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Fr. Timothy Joseph Hallahan

Ordained: 1957
Status: Accused

Diocese: Diocese of Springfield MA

Named publicly as credibly accused by the diocese on its list 6/2/21. Allegedly abused a minor 1967-68. Hallahan died in 2013.

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Diocese of Springfield List updated 06.02.21

Sources:

Diocese of Springfield IL List 11.29.18

Fr. Earl Albert Victor Hebert

Ordained: 1952
Status: Accused

Diocese: Diocese of Springfield MA

Named publicly as accused by the diocese on its list updated 6/2/21. Died 11/2/15, age 92. Accused after his death of sexually abusing a child in 1972. Was assigned during the time of the alleged abuse to Our Lady of Perpetual Help in Holyoke.

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Diocese of Springfield List updated 06.02.21

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Diocese of Springfield List updated 06.02.21

Fr. Ernest Karl Huller

Ordained: 1954
Status: Settled

Diocese: Diocese of Springfield MA

Two men filed separate suits (one in 11/02 and one in 3/03) alleging they were abused as students in the 1960s at Cathedral High School in Springfield by Huller. Huller was at the school 1959-70 as a teacher, guidance counselor and athletics director. He became the diocesan schools superintendent in 1970. In 7/04 the diocese settled with 46 clergy abuse victims for more than $7M, including two plaintiffs with allegations against Huller. Huller was an Army chaplain for 19 years. He died in 1997. A third accusation, by a woman claiming sexual abuse by Huller as a student at Cathedral High in the 1960s, was deemed credible by the diocese in 12/20. Settlement in 5/21 in the low five figures. Added to the diocese's list in 6/21.

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Fr. Joseph Roy Jenness

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Ordained: 1956
Status: Settled

Diocese: Diocese of Springfield MA

Four brothers filed a civil suit in 12/03 alleging abuse by Jenness and four other priests 1967-83. One of the brothers says he was abused by Jenness and three of the other four priests; Jenness allegedly would share him with the other priests at a camp. Separate suit filed in 8/03. One person settled claims against Jenness as part of a 2004 $7.5M settlement reached between 45 claimants and the Diocese. Also named in a 12/04 civil suit. Died 8/23/88. Three claims settled in 11/08 as part of a $4.5M settlement. Added to the diocese's list in 6/21.

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Diocese of Springfield List updated 06.02.21

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Fr. Placid Kaczorek

Ordained: 1964
Status: Accused

Diocese: Diocese of Springfield MA

Named publicly as accused of the sexual abuse of a minor by the Springfield MA diocese on its list 6/2/21. Worked in the diocese 1970-2001. Abuse allegedly occurred 1973-81. Died in 2016.

Sources:

Diocese of Springfield MA List updated 06.02.21

Fr. Maurice P. Karam

Ordained: 1957
Status: Accused

Diocese: Diocese of Springfield MA

Named publicly as credibly accused by the diocese on its list in 6/21. Allegedly abused a minor 1967-68 while assigned to St. Anthony's (Maronite Rite) in Springfield. Died in 2013.

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Diocese of Springfield List updated 06.02.21

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Diocese of Springfield List updated 06.02.21

Fr. Vernon Kelly

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Ordained: 1960
Status: Settled

Diocese: Diocese of Springfield MA

At least one claim included in the Springfield MA diocese's 11/08 $4.5M settlement with 59 plaintiffs. Added 6/2/21 to the diocese's list. Was Vocations Director for the Passionists at their monastery in West Springfield 1961-64. Noted to have sexually abused a minor in 1965.

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Diocese of Springfield List updated 06.02.21

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Fr. John Earl Kelty

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Ordained: 1946
Status: Accused

Diocese: Diocese of Springfield MA

Named publicly as accused by the Diocese of Springfield on its list 6/2/21. Assigned to San Domiano Friary in Holyoke 1981-82. Accused of sexually abusing a minor in the 1980s. Died in 1993.

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Diocese of Springfield MA List updated 06.02.21

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Diocese of Springfield MA List updated 06.02.21

Fr. Edward Michael Kennedy

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Ordained: 1959
Status: Settled

Diocese: Diocese of Springfield MA

Placed on leave in 1991 and sent for treatment after accusations of abuse of young boys. Paid $20K in 1994 to settle sexual abuse charge. All rights removed in 2002. Named in at least three suits filed in 2003 and 2004. One plaintiff was included in a 2004 settlement with the Diocese. Laicization announced 12/01/06. One claim settled as part of a $4.5M settlement in 11/08. Reportedly died 11/2/18. Included on the diocese's list of credibly accused.

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Diocese of Springfield List updated 06.02.21

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Fr. Richard L. Kirouac

Ordained: 1985
Status: Accused

Diocese: Diocese of Springfield MA

Priest of the Saint Nicholas Ukrainian Catholic Eparchy. Worked in Bismarck ND, Chicago IL Houston TX and possibly elsewhere prior to arrival in MA. Native of MA. Assigned 2001-03 to the Springfield diocese at Sts. Patrick and Raphael in Williamstown. Included on the diocese's list, with multiple credible allegations of abuse noted. The alleged abuse occurred 1998-2000; the list does not indicate where the abuse occurred. Removed from public ministry in 2003.

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Diocese of Springfield List updated 06.02.21

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Fr. John R. Klekotka

Ordained: 1923
Status: Accused

Diocese: Diocese of Springfield MA

Named publicly as accused by the diocese on its list in 6/21. Allegedly sexually abused a minor 1963-70. Died in 1974.

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Diocese of Springfield List updated 06.02.21

Sources:

The Berkshire Eagle 02.16.61
Diocese of Springfield List updated 06.02.21

Fr. John Anthony Koonz

Ordained: 1963
Status: Settled

Diocese: Diocese of Springfield MA

In 9/02 three men alleged that Koonz abused them at separate times when they were teens. Diocesan Misconduct Commission found claims credible. A man filed a civil suit in 12/03 alleging that Koonz and Fr. Edward Kennedy sexually abused him as a minor. Three people settled claims against Koonz as part of a $7.5M settlement in 7/04 between 45 claimants and the Diocese, involving 18 priests. Another suit was filed in 1/05. One settlement in 2008. Removed from all ministry. Died 11/27/13. Included on the diocese's list of credibly accused.

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Diocese of Springfield List updated 06.02.21

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Fr. Jeffrey L’Arche

Ordained: 1975
Status: Accused

Diocese: Diocese of Springfield MA

LaSalette Missionaries priest. Pastor of two parishes in the Diocese of Albany NY 6/2/21 when when placed on leave after the Diocese of Springfield MA released a list of accused which included L'Arche. He allegedly sexually abused a minor in MA 1976-81. L'Arche denied the allegation and his order deemed it not credible. Also worked in CT and FL.

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Diocese of Springfield MA List updated 06.02.21

Sources:

Diocese of Springfield MA List updated 06.02.21
WTEN 06.02.21

Fr. Francis Patrick Lavelle

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Ordained: 1970
Status: Settled

Diocese: Diocese of Springfield MA

Two men filed suit in 7/02 alleging abuse by Lavelle when they were teens. One said his abuse occurred in 1972 and the other said he was abused in 1980, when Lavelle was working as secretary for the Bishop. Four brothers filed suit in 12/03 claiming abuse by Lavelle and four other priests 1967-83. Permanently barred from ministry in 2/04. Two plaintiffs were included in a 7/04 settlement for $7M. Named in a 2004 civil suit. Two more claims settled in 2008. Outcome of administrative process needed Vatican approval. Assigned life of prayer of penance in 2010. Included on the diocese's list of credibly accused.

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Diocese of Springfield List updated 06.02.21

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Fr. Richard Roger Lavigne

Ordained: 1966
Status: Convicted

Diocese: Diocese of Springfield MA

Arrested and charged in 1991, accused of abuse of 5 boys. Convicted in 1992 of assaulting 2 boys; jail time of 4-6 years, suspended; 10 years probation. In 1993, 11 new accusers surfaced, a day after Lavigne was released from treatment at St. Luke's in MD. Claims with 17 plaintiffs settled in 1994 ($1.4M). Other plaintiffs included in 7/04 settlement. As many as 48 known victims; law enforcement estimated over 250 victims. "Official tally" 43, per plaintiffs' attorney in 6/21. Laicization announced 1/04. Prime suspect in 1972 murder of altar boy Danny Croteau. Lavigne died 5/21/21, hours before he was to be arrested for the murder. The D.A. stated that Lavigne implicated himself during interviews in the weeks before his death. Included on the diocese's list of credibly accused.

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Diocese of Springfield List updated 06.02.21

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Fr. Timothy J. Leary

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Ordained: 1936
Status: Settled

Diocese: Diocese of Springfield MA

Accused in a 1/05 civil suit of abusing plaintiff as a boy for five years, beginning when he was in 4th grade. Leary allegedly introduced the boy to Fr. Francis Lavelle, who also abused him. At various times, both priests promised to guarantee his admission and pay his tuition at Cathedral High School. Leary died in 1991 at age 81.Two claims settled in 2008.

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Fr. Ronald Raoul Malboeuf

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Ordained: 1965
Status: Settled

Diocese: Diocese of Springfield MA

Removed from ministry in 1988 after a man alleged that Malboeuf abused him over five years, beginning when he was age 10. A man filed suit in 3/03 alleging that he had been sexually abused in the mid-1960s by Malboeuf, beginning when he was about 11 and continuing for 2-3 years. Two claims against Malboeuf settled in 8/04 as part of a $7.5M settlement between 45 claimants and the diocese involving 18 priests. Malboeuf was voluntarily laicized in 12/89. Died in 2009. Included in 6/21 on the diocese's list of credibly accused.

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Diocese of Springfield List updated 06.02.21

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Deacon James A. Martone

Ordained: 1983
Status: Accused

Diocese: Diocese of Springfield MA

Ordained as permanent deacon in 1983. Placed on leave in 2004 after allegations he abused a child beginning in 1991 and continuing for several years. Also placed on leave from his job as business manager of a third parish, pending results of the investigation. Diocese announced in 5/05 that the review board found the allegations to be credible. Permanently removed from ministry. Included on the diocese's list of credibly accused. Died in 2021.

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Diocese of Springfield List updated 06.02.21

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Fr. Thomas James McCarthy

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Ordained: 1951
Status: Settled

Diocese: Diocese of Springfield MA

At least one claim of abuse by McCarthy was included in the Diocese's 11/08 $4.5M settlement with 59 plaintiffs. Added 6/2/21 to the diocese's list of accused. Noted to having allegedly sexually abused a child 1954-57. Assigned at the time of the alleged abuse to Our Lady of the Sacred Heart in Springfield.

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Diocese of Springfield List updated 06.02.21

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Fr. James Daniel McKenna

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Ordained: 1950
Status: Accused

Diocese: Diocese of Springfield MA

Per news in 6/19, a woman told the diocese in Fall 2018 that McKenna sexually abuse her over 18 months at St. Francis in South Lee, beginning she was a high school sophomore in the early 1970s. She said McKenna would ply her with alcohol. She said she reported the abuse in 2018 to the Berkshire D.A. and to state police. McKenna died in 10/00. Added to the diocese's list of accused in 6/21.

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Diocese of Springfield List updated 06.02.21

Sources:

Berkshire Eagle 06.27.19
The Republican 06.28.19
Diocese of Springfield List updated 06.02.21

Fr. John Davitt McNamara

Ordained: 1948
Status: Settled

Diocese: Diocese of Springfield MA

At least one claim of abuse by McNamara included in the diocese's 11/08 $4.5M settlement with 59 plaintiffs. Added to diocese's list of accused 6/2/21. Allegedly sexually abused a minor 1980-81. Died in 1990.

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Diocese of Springfield List updated 06.02.21

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Fr. Richard Francis Meehan

Ordained: 1969
Status: Settled

Diocese: Diocese of Springfield MA

Removed from parish ministry in 1994 as a result of sexual misconduct. Returned to limited ministry as an archivist for the diocese until 6/02. Named in a 9/03 civil suit by one man. Case sent to Vatican in 2002; laicized in 4/06. Two claims settled in 8/04 as part of $7.5M settlement between 45 claimants and the Diocese of Springfield involving 18 priests. Two settled in 2008. Meehan died 6/1/17 in Holyoke MA. Included on the diocese's list of credibly accused.

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Diocese of Springfield List updated 06.02.21

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Fr. James Paul Menge

Ordained: 1962
Status: Settled

Died: 08/6/2010
Diocese: Diocese of Springfield MA

At least one claim was included in the Diocese's 11/08 $4.5M settlement with 59 plaintiffs. Retired in 6/00. Died in 8/10. Added to the diocese's list of credibly accused in 9/21, with multiple allegations.

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Fr. Thomas Joseph O’Connor

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Ordained: 1955
Status: Settled

Diocese: Diocese of Springfield MA

Four brothers filed suit in 12/03 alleging abuse by O'Connor and four other priests 1967-83. One brother said he was abused by O'Connor and three of the other four priests. None of the brothers knew that the others were being abused. They complained to the diocese in 8/02, but no action. Also named by one in a mid-2004 civil suit and another in a 12/04 suit. One claim settled in 2008. Added 6/2/21 to the diocese's list, which notes one credible allegation of abuse, occurring 1970-72. O'Connor died in 4/25/87, age 56.

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Diocese of Springfield List updated 06.02.21

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Fr. Richard O’Hearn

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Status: Settled

Diocese: Diocese of Springfield MA

One man settled with the Diocese for $75K in 11/08 as part of a $4.5M settlement with 59 claimants. He claimed abuse by O'Hearn at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church in Pittsfield.

Sources:

CBS 3 12.09.08
WWLP 12.09.08

Fr. Thomas F. O’Malley

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Ordained: 1930
Status: Settled

Diocese: Diocese of Springfield MA

One person settled claims against O'Malley as part of a $7.5M settlement in 8/04 between 45 claimants and the Diocese of Springfield, involving 18 priests. This was the first time O'Malley had been publicly identified. Died in 1985 at age 84.

Sources:

Fr. John Paul Richard

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Ordained: 1952
Status: Accused

Died: 06/17/1991
Diocese: Diocese of Springfield MA

Named publicly as accused by the diocese on its list 6/2/21. Allegedly sexually abused a minor 1978-80. Richard died in 6/17/91.

Assignments:

Diocese of Springfield List updated 06.02.21

Sources:

Diocese of Springfield List updated 06.02.21

Fr. Ferdinand Roy

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Ordained: 1926
Status: Accused

Diocese: Diocese of Springfield MA

Named publicly as accused by the diocese on its list 6/2/21. Allegedly sexually abused a minor 1965-68, while assigned to St. Aloysius in Indian Orchard. Died in 1983.

Assignments:

Diocese of Springfield List updated 06.02.21

Sources:

Diocese of Springfield List updated 06.02.21

Fr. John R. Russell

Ordained: 1966
Status: Accused

Diocese: Diocese of Springfield MA

In 2004 a woman claimed that she was the subject of inappropriate sexual advances and sexual assault by Russell when she was in high school between 1968 and the early 1970s. Russell left the Catholic priesthood in 1970 and later became a priest of the Episcopal Diocese of the Rio Grande. The Springfield diocese deemed the accusation credible and informed the Episcopal church. Russell left the Episcopal priesthood in 2001. He was also accused of abuse in New Mexico. Russell died in Albuquerque 7/28/19. Included on the Springfield diocese's list of credibly accused.

Assignments:

Diocese of Springfield List updated 06.02.21

Sources:

Fr. Michael Sabotor

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Status: Settled

Diocese: Diocese of Springfield MA

At least one claim was included in the Diocese's $4.5M settlement in 11/08 with 59 plaintiffs.

Sources:

Press Release by The Office of Stobierski & Stobierski, 12.03.08

Fr. John Scanlon

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Ordained: 2021
Status: Settled

Diocese: Diocese of Springfield MA

At least one claim included in diocese's 11/08 $4.5M settlement with 59 plaintiffs. No other information. (There was a John J. Scanlon from the Diocese of Springfield, ordained in 1927, died in 1967.)

Sources:

Fr. Donald D. Simonds

Order: MS
Ordained: 1963
Status: Accused

Diocese: Diocese of Springfield MA

Named publicly as accused by the Diocese of Springfield MA on its list 6/2/21. Worked in the diocese 1980-83 and 1984-97. Removed from ministry in 2002. Multiple credible allegations of the sexual abuse of minors, occurring 1979-83.

Sources:

Diocese of Springfield MA List updated 06.02.21

Fr. James A. Sipitkowski

Ordained: 1974
Status: Accused

Diocese: Diocese of Springfield MA

In 2/04, Vicar General testified at hearing on complaint filed by a male church employee that parishioners at Holy Family had reported Sipitkowski had young boys going up to rectory late at night and that he left Holy Family due to allegations of sexual abuse and financial mismanagement. No investigation was conducted. Complainant said pictures of Sipitkowski dressed in women's clothing "in a compromising position with other scantily dressed men" were found after he was transferred. Active priest in 10/08.

Sources:

Springfield Republican 02.07.04
Springfield Republican 02.29.04

Fr. Charles J. Sullivan

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Ordained: 1965
Status: Accused

Diocese: Diocese of Springfield MA

Named publicly by the Diocese in 8/11 as credibly accused of abuse of a minor. Abuse allegedly occurred in 1993. Administrative process found in support of the allegation. Ordered to life of prayer and penance in 2005. Died in 2014.

Assignments:

Diocese of Springfield List updated 06.02.21

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Sr. Mary Jane Vidnansky

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Order: FSSJ
Status: Sued

Diocese: Diocese of Springfield MA

Accused in a 2004 lawsuit of sexually abusing a boy 1974-76, starting when the boy was a 14-year-old student at Mater Dolorosa School in Holyoke. Abuse is alleged to have included intercourse. Plaintiff said Vidnansky told him she was pregnant by him and that she had had an abortion. Vidnansky left the order in the mid-1970s.

Sources:

Fr. James T. Walsh

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Ordained: 1949
Status: Sued

Diocese: Diocese of Springfield MA

A 3/05 civil suit alleges plaintiff was abused by Walsh. Same suit alleges that plaintiff was abused by his uncle (Msgr. Page), other priests and two separate bishops. Plaintiff was in a Texas prison for an unrelated murder when suit filed. Worcester diocese said allegations not credible. Walsh died in 1970.

Sources:

Fr. Ronald E. Wamsher

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Ordained: 1977
Status: Settled

Diocese: Diocese of Springfield MA

Four brothers complained to the Diocese in 2002 that they were abused by five priests, including Wamsher, 1967-83. Three of the four alleged abuse by Wamsher. They filed suit in 2003. Wamsher denied all allegations. Not placed on leave until 4/04. Another suit filed in 8/04. The Diocese announced in 5/05 that the allegations were credible and Wamsher's privileges were removed in accordance with Dallas norms. Three claims were settled in 11/08 as part of a $4.5M settlement. Canonical Trial ordered. Included on the diocese's list of credibly accused. (It notes his removal was in 2002; per news in 2004, Wamsher was taken out of his parish in 2002 after the allegations and was given a position on the diocesan tribunal.)

Assignments:

Diocese of Springfield List updated 06.02.21

Sources:

Fr. David P. Welch

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Status: Settled

Diocese: Diocese of Springfield MA

A man filed a civil suit in 2/04 alleging that he was sexually abused by Welch (spelled Walsh) for three years in the early 1950s, when Welch was in charge of St. Michael's High School. Welch, who died in 1986, was editor of the Diocese's newspaper and executor of Bishop Weldon's estate. Conflict in 2003-2004 that Welch, as executor, may have destroyed Diocesan personnel files relating to abuse accusations within the Diocese. One claim settled in 8/04 and two in 2008.

Sources:

Fr. Richard Joseph Welch

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Ordained: 1925
Status: Accused

Diocese: Diocese of Springfield MA

Named publicly as accused by the diocese on its list 6/2/21. Allegedly sexually abused a minor 1948-52, while assigned to Notre Dame in Pittsfield. Transferred to the Diocese of Columbus OH in 1953, where he died 12/31/69.

Assignments:

Diocese of Springfield List updated 06.02.21

Sources:

Bishop Christopher J. Weldon

Ordained: 1929
Status: Sued

Diocese: Diocese of Springfield MA

NY priest. Bishop of Springfield 1950-77. Accused of knowing of many abusers in diocese. Died in 1982. Accused in a 2005 lawsuit of abuse of a boy, ages 11-16. Accuser claimed he was abused by his uncle (Msgr. Page), several other priests, Weldon and another bishop. Accuser was in a TX prison for an unrelated murder when suit filed. Diocese said not credible. In 9/18 the Diocesan Review Board deemed credible an allegation that Weldon raped a 9- or 10-year-old boy in the early 1960s. The alleged victim said he was also abused by Revs. Edward Authier and Clarence Forand, also deemed credible. Victim sued in 1/21. Weldon is said to have interfered as bishop in investigation into the murder of an altar boy in 1972 by Rev. Richard R. Lavigne. In 6/20 independent investigator Peter Velis released a report, stating that he found abuse allegations against Weldon "unequivocally credible." Added to diocese's list of accused 6/2/21.

Assignments:

BA.org Assignment Record

Sources:

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Our Database of Publicly Accused does not state or imply that individuals facing allegations are guilty of a crime or liable for civil claims. The reports contained in the database are merely allegations. The U.S. legal system presumes that a person accused of or charged with a crime is innocent until proven guilty. Similarly, individuals who may be defendants in civil actions are presumed not to be liable for such claims unless a plaintiff proves otherwise. Admissions of guilt or liability are not typically a part of civil or private settlements. For more information, see our posting policy.