Diocese of Saint Cloud MN - BishopAccountability.org

75 Accused in This Diocese

Fr. Thomas Andert

Order: OSB
Ordained: 1975
Status: Reinstated

Andert, appointed prior of St John Abbey in 6/07 and member of the abbey's External Review Board, was investigated in 1994 for an improper sexual relationship with a minor student at St John Prep. Abbey spokesman denied credible charges were found but Richard Sipe, chair of the Interfaith Sexual Trauma Institute at St John's in 1994, gave a detailed account in 2007, stating the investigation was inadequate, and that an inappropriate sexual relationship did occur. The former student who was the subject of the "relationship" with Andert took his own life in 12/14. In 8/15 Andert was placed on leave due to an allegation of sexual abuse of another former St. John's Prep student, in 1979 or 1980, who also claimed abuse by Rev. Allen Tarlton. St. John's announced in 2/16 that the allegations were found unsubstantiated by a review board; Andert was reinstated. His accuser filed suit in 4/16.

Assignments:

BA.org Assignment Record

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Fr. Timothy Backous

Order: OSB
Ordained: 1986
Status: Accused

Diocese: Diocese of Saint Cloud MN

St. John's Prep School headmaster 2006 -13. Parents of former St. John's Boys' Choir member in 5/14 alleged sex abuse of their son by Backous during choir's 1990 bus trip across Europe; parents knew in 1991 and reported to Abbot. Abbot paid for son's counseling and apparently told parents Backous would no longer work with children. Sheriff told parents he had no authority because abuse was in Europe. Parents learned 5/24/14 Backous said mass at Memorial Day weekend at the Basilica of St. Mary in Minneapolis; they informed Archbishop. Abbot of St John's Abbey wrote 6/10/14 that allegations had never been proven and Backous was not working under any restrictions but was a priest in good standing. He also worked at Essentia Health in Duluth. Named in 2 lawsuits 4/16: a man claimed abuse at St. John's Prep 1982-83 at age 16; another alleged abuse at age 12-13 by Backous on a choir trip to Europe in 1990. Abbey called allegations "without merit and false."

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Br. Andre Bennett

Order: OSB
Status: Settled

Diocese: Diocese of Saint Cloud MN

At least two students at St. John's Abbey accused Bennett, who ran the infirmary, of abusing them. Abbey officials say that he had problems with alcohol and was later treated for abuse of prescription drugs. Lived at Abbey under restriction until his death 1/15/07. The victims may have settled as part of massive settlement announced 10/02 with claims regarding about 11 St. John's Abbey priests and monks. Another settlement 3/11. Name included on list of monks likely to have offended against minors released by Abbey12/9/13.

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Fr. Michael Bik

Order: OSB
Ordained: 1993
Status: Sued

Diocese: Diocese of Saint Cloud MN

Allegations against Bik in 1997 included "inappropriate sexual conduct with two teenagers in the 1970s," prior to joining the abbey and ordination. After allegations known, continued to teach at St. John's Prep until 2002. Accusations made public 7/29/06. Residing at St. John Abbey and working under restrictions. Name on list released by Abbey 12/9/13. New lawsuit in 5/16 alleged sex abuse in 1998 of a 15- or 16-year-old boy, who was a St. John's Prep student. Abuse was said to have occurred after Bik's admission of abuse in the 1970s.

Fr. Robert Blumeyer

Order: OSB
Ordained: 1956
Status: Accused

Died: 10/5/1983
Diocese: Diocese of Saint Cloud MN

Accused in 2005 of molesting a teenage boy many years prior. Blumeyer worked in the St. Cloud diocese 1965-68. Died 10/5/83. Member of St. John's Abbey. Name not made public until 7/06. Two more accusers came forward after the first allegations. Name included on list of monks likely to have offended against minors released by Abbey 12/9/13. Included on the St. Cloud diocese list released 1/3/14 and St. Paul list 2/17/14. St. Paul personnel files released 05/19/14.

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Fr. Michael L. Brennan

Order: TOR
Ordained: 1950
Status: Accused

Diocese: Diocese of Saint Cloud MN

On 1/03/14 the Diocese of St. Cloud released the names of 33 clergy, including Brennan, who were "likely involved in the sexual abuse of minors." Brennan was assigned in the diocese to Holy Family in Belle Prairie 1958-62, and Our Lady of the Angels Boarding School 1958-68. Appears to have left ministry after 1968.

Assignments:

BA.org Assignment Record

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Fr. Lawrence S. Brey

Ordained: 1953
Status: Sued

Died: 11/27/2006
Diocese: Diocese of Saint Cloud MN

Accused in a lawsuit filed in 12/18 of the sexual abuse of a girl in the 1970s and 1980s at Holy Innocents Catholic School in Waite Park. Also accused in the suit were five members of a family that ran the school. A St. Cloud diocesan spokesperson said the school was not part of the diocese. Brey, a Milwaukee priest, is listed in the 1988 Official Catholic Directory as On Duty Outside the Diocese in St. Cloud. Brey died in 2006. Per his obituary, he was "abandoned by the archdiocese....served Latin Mass Chapels throughout the United States."

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Br. Paschal James Brisson

Order: OSB
Status: Settled

Died: 01/5/1980
Diocese: Diocese of Saint Cloud MN

Brisson is one of 10 individuals included in settlement by St. John's Abbey of Collegeville announced on 3/28/11. All of the accused taught at St. John's Prep or were assigned to parishes in St. Cloud. As part of settlement, Abbey committed to name 17 accused priests in a letter to the St. John's community, including 8 of the 10 Benedictines included in the settlement. The two not named in Abbot Klassen's letter were Brisson and Fr Pirmin Wendt. Brisson was reported as having 'left the abbey.' Behind the Pine Curtain reports that he worked in the Bahamas and Puerto Rico and that the alleged abuse occurred in Humacao, Puerto Rico, in the late 1970s. Brisson died in 1980.

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Fr. Anthony Michael Canu

Donate Photo

Order: TOR
Ordained: 1955
Status: Accused

Diocese: Diocese of Saint Cloud MN

On 1/03/14 the Diocese of St. Cloud released the names of 33 clergy, including Canu, involved in incidents of likely claims of sexual abuse of minors. No information on the parish where the abuse occurred or when it occurred. Worked at Our Lady of he Angels Boarding School, Belle Prairie. Added to the Richmond diocese's list 6/27/19. It notes that Canu was removed in 1973, was laicized, and died in 2019.

Assignments:

BA.org Assignment Record

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Fr. John Lloyd Caskey

Ordained: 1982
Status: Convicted

Diocese: Diocese of Saint Cloud MN

Caskey admitted in late 2007 to writing "inappropriate letters" to an 18-year-old male who had reported them to police in 9/07. Resigned from parish. Not placed on leave by the diocese until 1/08 when arrested and charged with possessing child pornography; police found the child porn on his computer during investigation of the letters. Pled guilty in 8/08. Sentenced in 5/09 to 1 month in prison and 5 years probation.

Assignments:

BA.org Assignment Record

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Br. Isaac Connolly

Order: OSB
Status: Sued

Diocese: Diocese of Saint Cloud MN

Former dean of students at St. John's University, requested a leave of absence in 10/02 from St. John's Abbey "for vocational discernment" after being accused of having engaged in sexual misconduct more than 10 years prior. The alleged misconduct not involve student at St. John's University and did not fall under the legal definition of sexual abuse. Reports said if Connolly had not taken leave, he would have been placed under restriction by St. John's Abbey. Shows as on restricted duty as of 3/11. Named as accused of abuse of a minor in a lawsuits against the Benedictines and Abbey in 5/11 and 6/11.

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Fr. Cosmas Dahlheimer

Order: OSB
Ordained: 1936
Status: Settled

Died: 02/21/2004
Diocese: Diocese of Saint Cloud MN

Received treatment for psychological problems in the 1960s. Accused of abuse of as many as four youths 1970-78. Abbey learned of allegations in 1987. Civil suits filed 1990, 1994, and an unknown date. At least two suits settled in 2002. Lived under restrictions at St. John's Abbey until his death 2/21/04 at age 95. Name on 12/9/13 list of monks likely to have offended against minors released by Abbey. Also on St. Paul list and St. Cloud list. St. Paul personnel file released 5/19/14. Worked in Owensboro KY diocese in 1964.

Assignments:

Minnesota Public Radio Partial Assignment Record

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Fr. Cornelius DeVenster

Order: OSC
Ordained: 1933
Status: Accused

Died: 12/25/1988
Diocese: Diocese of Saint Cloud MN

From the Netherlands. Started working in the U.S. in 1934. Worked in NE, MN, NY, IN and OH. Name is included on 3/8/14 updated list of current, former and deceased Crosiers with one or more credible claims of sexual abuse of minors. Died 12/25/88. Allegation made at some point after his death. No information on diocese where abuse is alleged to have occurred.

Assignments:

Assignment Record Released by Crosier Order 03.08.14

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Bishop Harold Joseph Dimmerling

Ordained: 1940
Status: Accused

Died: 12/13/1987
Diocese: Diocese of Saint Cloud MN

St. Cloud priest 1940-1969. Bishop of Rapid City SD 1969-1987. Died 12/13/87. In 11/18 the St. Cloud diocese announced that it had recently received an allegation that Dimmerling had sexually abused a minor while a priest of the diocese. Bishop Kettler deemed the allegation credible. Included on the diocese's list in 5/19.

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The Catholic Spirit 11.19.18

Fr. John W. Eccleston

Ordained: 1955
Status: Convicted

Died: 02/9/2012
Diocese: Diocese of Saint Cloud MN

On Diocese of St. Cloud list 1/03/14. Worked prior to joining the St. Cloud diocese in the Washington DC archdiocese. Began work in St. Cloud in 1962, incardinated in 1973. Died 2/9/2012. On Washington DC archdiocese's list 10/15/2018, which notes receiving a report of sexual misconduct in 1960; Eccleston was sent for evaluation and treatment then assigned to ministry in St. Cloud. The WDC list also noted that he was arrested and convicted in MN in 1982. On Charleston diocese's list 3/29/2019; was there as a visiting priest. Noted to be the subject of a settlement.

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Fr. Richard Eckroth

Order: OSB
Ordained: 1952
Status: Settled

Died: 05/24/2015
Diocese: Diocese of Saint Cloud MN

Accusations made public in 2002 of abuse of boys and girls in the early 1970s at a cabin owned by the Benedictines. At least one suit was filed in 1993 by two victims. He was ordered back to St. John's Abbey from the Bahamas and sent for treatment. Order may have known since the late 1980s of earlier allegation. Abbey paid $12K to at least one of his female victims. Investigated for the murder of two girls. Living under restriction at Abbey. Name on list of monks likely to have offended against minors released by the Abbey 12/9/13 and on St. Cloud 1/3/14 list. Named in two more lawsuits filed 5/19/14 against the St. Cloud diocese, the order and St. John's Abbey. Both men alleged they were abused by Eckroth when he was assigned to St. Joseph's parish in St. Joseph MN in the early 1970s. Eckroth is said in 2014 to have advanced dementia. New suit expected to be filed 9/19/14. Died 5/24/15.

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Fr. John Eidenschink

Order: OSB
Ordained: 1941
Status: Accused

Died: 06/19/2004
Diocese: Diocese of Saint Cloud MN

As of 2002, Eidenschink, a former Abbot of the abbey, was living under restrictions at St. John's Abbey. He admitted to sexually abusing two monks who had not yet taken their final vows. One victim was molested prior to 1971 and the other was molested during Eidenschink's tenure as Abbot. He died in 6/04, at age 89.

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Fr. Neil J. Emon

Order: OSC
Ordained: 1967
Status: Accused

Died: 07/28/2019
Diocese: Diocese of Saint Cloud MN

Worked in NE, MI and MN before moving to Phoenix in 2000. Admitted in 1991 to abusing boys in early to mid-1970s in Onamia, MN. Removed without privileges in 5/02 after additional information was received. Had been working under restrictions for some time; Phoenix knew of his history when he arrived. Name also appeared on list of Phoenix priests complied by Arizona Republic. As of 2014, living under safety plan in Phoenix. Added to St. Cloud list 3/14/14. Died in 2019. Included on the Detroit archdiocese's list 6/10/19.

Fr. Sylvester L. Gall

Ordained: 1938
Status: Accused

Died: 05/13/2004
Diocese: Diocese of Saint Cloud MN

On 1/03/14 the Diocese of St. Cloud released the names of 33 clergy, including Gall, involved in incidents of likely claims of sexual abuse of minors. No information on the parish where the abuse occurred or when it occurred. Spent entire career in Diocese. Retired 1993; died 5/13/04.

Assignments:

Jeff Anderson & Associates Assignment Record

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Fr. William Nicholas Garding

Ordained: 1982
Status: Convicted

Died: 11/22/2005
Diocese: Diocese of Saint Cloud MN

Ordained at age 43. In 1989 a 20-year-old man accused Garding of sexually abusing him as a boy over a three-year period, beginning during confirmation classes. Pleaded guilty; sentenced to 6 months in jail and a 10-year stayed sentence. Sued in 1991 but suit dismissed. Later wrote book, "My Journey Alone" about his battle to suppress homosexuality and his quest for approval and love from adolescent male parishioner. Privileges removed in 6/02. Died in 11/05 after auto accident. Name on 1/3/14 St. Cloud list.

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FindaGrave 11.00.05

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Fr. Raoul Gauthier

Donate Photo

Ordained: 1933
Status: Arrested

Diocese: Diocese of Saint Cloud MN

Ordained for the Diocese of Gravelbourg, Canada. On leave in 1939, then chaplain at hospitals in the U.S. dioceses of Crookston and St. Cloud, including St. Michael's Hospital in Sauk Centre MN 1969-78. Per 5/02 news, Gauthier was charged in 1979 with fourth-degree criminal sexual conduct after he admitted to fondling a mentally challenged male adult. He fled to Canada shortly after his confession and was never extradited. He was on retirement status in his home diocese from 1979 until his death in 1995 at age 92. Name included on St. Cloud's 1/3/14 list of clergy involved in incidents of likely claims of sexual abuse of minors.

Assignments:

BA.org Assignment Record

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Fr. Thomas Gillespie

Order: OSB
Ordained: 1964
Status: Accused

Diocese: Diocese of Saint Cloud MN

Suit filed in 2002 against two other priests (Moorse and Tarlton) included allegation that Gillespie abused a boy at St. John's Abbey in 1977-78. He was living under restrictions at the Abbey. Per 7/13/08 posting, four former students had accused him of abuse between 1977-87. Name not on 12/05/13 St. Paul list but was one of 17 priests listed on 8/02 memo to Archbishop Flynn regarding priests with known abuse histories. Also was on list released by Abbey 12/9/13, by St Cloud 1/3/14 and St Paul's revised list 2/17/14. St. Paul personnel file released 5/19/14.

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Assignment Record from Archdiocese of St Paul

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Fr. Paul A. Gopaul

Order: SSE
Ordained: 1952
Status: Settled

Diocese: Diocese of Saint Cloud MN

From Trinadad. Visiting professor at St. John's Abbey in 1970 when he allegedly drugged and raped a student. Accusation made to the Abbey in 1971 by the boy's father. The boy died by suicide in 2/71. Gopaul died in 1988 while working in the Los Angeles Archdiocese. Allegation made again by victim's sisters in 2006. Abbey admits a complaint in 2002. The 1971 complaint was found in archives in 2006. As many as 10 other victims and settlement in 2002.

Assignments:

BA.org Assignment Record

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Fr. Stanislaus Goryczka

Donate Photo

Ordained: 1923
Status: Accused

Died: 04/18/1941
Diocese: Diocese of Saint Cloud MN

On 1/03/14 the Diocese of St. Cloud released the names of 33 clergy, including Goryczka, involved in incidents of likely claims of sexual abuse of minors. No information on the parish where the abuse occurred or when it occurred. He worked in parishes in Harding (Pulaski), Elmsdale and Little Falls. Died 4/18/41.

Assignments:

BA.org Assignment Record

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Br. Gabriel Guerrero

Order: OSC
Status: Settled

Diocese: Diocese of Saint Cloud MN

Worked in MN, IN, NE, NY, AZ. Removed from work with minors in 1990. At least one claim included in 2/09 settlement with Crosiers and nine accusers in MN. Accused of abuse of two 1973-75. Assigned to Phoenix in 2000. Removed from public ministry in AZ in 2002, later placed under restrictions. Allegations were at least 15 years old. Name on Crosier list released 3/8/14, noting Guerrero was retired and living under a safety plan. Named in new suit in 7/28.

Assignments:

Assignment Record Released by Crosier Order 03.08.14

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Br. Eugene Hambrock

Donate Photo

Order: OSC
Status: Accused

Died: 01/30/1999
Diocese: Diocese of Saint Cloud MN

Worked in IN, NY, MN, and NE. Name is included on 3/8/14 updated list of current, former and deceased Crosiers with one or more credible claims of sexual abuse of minors. Died 1/30/99. No indication of which diocese he was working in at time of alleged abuse or when allegation was received.

Assignments:

Assignment Record Released by Crosier Order 03.08.14

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Fr. Francis F. Hoefgen

Order: OSB
Ordained: 1979
Status: Acquitted

Diocese: Diocese of Saint Cloud MN

Accused in a 1992 lawsuit of abuse in 1982 of a 16-year-old boy, who lived with him as a foster son. Hoefgen knew the boy was suicidal when he invited him to move into his home. He admitted sexual encounters to the church in 1984; sent for treatment and after six months was assigned to a new parish. Suit dismissed in 11/93 due to SOL. Apology by Hoefgen printed in newspaper in 9/02 as part of a group settlement involving several living at St. John's Abbey. Permanently removed in 2002. Laicized in 12/11. Sued 11/18/13. Included in 12/13 on the St. Paul and Minneapolis archdiocese's list of credibly accused. St. Paul personnel file released 05/19/14. Arrested 05/21/14, charged with two counts of criminal sexual conduct against a boy in 4th-6th grades, occurring 1989-91. Pleaded not guilty 9/5/14. Trial set for 5/15. Acquitted. Files released in 11/15 show pattern of predation toward boys, beginning in the 1980s and continuing for two decades.

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Fr. Leo J. Hohmann

Order: OSB
Ordained: 1931
Status: Accused

Died: 01/24/1980
Diocese: Diocese of Saint Cloud MN

Also known as Othmar Hohmann. Worked in the Bahamas, ND, UT, CO, MN. Name included on list released by Abbey 12/9/13 of monks likely to have offended against minors. Hohmann was accused by at least two women of groping, pawing and sexually assaulting them in the 1960s when they were children attending St. Joseph's in St. Joseph. The women told the Abbey, which did nothing. Retired in 1976, died 1/24/80. Also included in addendum to Duluth 12/31/13 list. Included on St. Cloud list 1/3/14. Accused in suit filed 1/13/16 of sexual abuse of girl ages 11-16, 1961-66, while he was St. Joseph's pastor.

Fr. Arthur Hoppe

Ordained: 1947
Status: Indicted

Died: 09/26/2019
Diocese: Diocese of Saint Cloud MN

Named publicly as accused by the diocese on its list in 5/22 of "those likely to have abused." Died 9/26/19 at age 98.

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Fr. Raymond Jacques

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Ordained: 1948
Status: Accused

Died: 12/4/1964
Diocese: Diocese of Saint Cloud MN

On 1/03/14 the Diocese of St. Cloud released the names of 33 clergy, including Jacques, involved in incidents of likely claims of sexual abuse of minors. No information on the parish where the abuse occurred or when it occurred. Served in Sauk Centre, Morris and at St. Anne in Kimball. Died 12/4/64 while at St. Anne.

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Fr. Dominic Joseph Keller

Ordained: 1931
Status: Accused

Died: 11/26/1978
Diocese: Diocese of Saint Cloud MN

Name included on list released by St. John's Abbey 12/9/13 of monks likely to have offended against minors. Keller died 11/26/78. In a letter dated 6/7/2011, sub-Prior Licari acknowledged abuse allegations made by one man of abuse as a boy in 1956-57, and noted other credible allegations against Keller.

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Fr. James Kelly

Order: OSB
Ordained: 1942
Status: Accused

Diocese: Diocese of Saint Cloud MN

Name released by St. John's Abbey 9/19/17 as having been added to its list of monks "likely to have offended against minors." Taught music at colleges, including St. John's University. Worked in Collegeville, St. Paul, Minneapolis, Stillwater, Ball Club, Wayzata MN, and in AL during 1961-62. Left the priesthood in 1973. Died in 2011.

Assignments:

Jeff Anderson & Associates Timeline and Assignment History

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St John’s Abbey List 09.18.17

Br. John Kelly

Order: OSB
Status: Settled

Diocese: Diocese of Saint Cloud MN

A former St. John's Prep student accused Kelly of abusing him over a 3-year period. In 1982 the student told the school's counselor, who told the abbot. Suit filed in 1992 and settled in 7/93. As of 2002 Kelly had taken a leave of absence from the brotherhood. A 4/02 article referred to allegations as credible and said that he has acknowledged wrongdoing and sought treatment. Named in new suit in 12/09. Name on list of monks likely to have offended against minors released by Abbey 12/9/13. Was no longer a St. John's monk.

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Fr. Valentine Klimek

Ordained: 1944
Status: Accused

Died: 08/7/1994
Diocese: Diocese of Saint Cloud MN

On 1/03/14 the Diocese of St. Cloud released the names of 33 clergy, including Klimek, accused of the sexual abuse of minors. No information on the parish where the abuse occurred or when it occurred. Klimek held many positions within the Diocese, including Spiritual Director of Cathedral High School and Director of Catholic Charities. He died 8/7/94. Included in 10/22 on the Chicago archdiocese's list, where he had worked briefly in the late 1940s as an extern priest.

Assignments:

BA.org Assignment Record

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Fr. Reginald M. Krakovsky

Order: TOR
Ordained: 1952
Status: Sued

Died: 07/14/1997
Diocese: Diocese of Saint Cloud MN

Sometimes spelled Krakowsky. Correct spelling of last name is Krakovsky per his gravestone and obituary. Worked in OR, MN, PA and in multiple overseas assignments. A man filed suit in the mid-1990s alleging he was sexually molested by Krakovsky 1961-1964 at a Little Falls parish. A news article refers to four other victims. Suit names St. Cloud Diocese and the Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis. Archdiocese denied it was responsible because Diocese was an independent entity. Living at Monastery in Altoona in 1995. Died 7/14/97 in PA. Name included on St. Cloud's 1/3/14 list. It gave no information as to where or when the abuse occurred. It did show he was the local superior of St. Louis Monastery in St. Cloud and was at Cathedral High School. On the St. Paul and Minneapolis list in 10/14. Included on Harrisburg PA diocese list 8/1/18. On Wheeling-Charleston diocese's list late 2018; there 9/91-4/92.

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Fr. Joseph C. Kremer

Ordained: 1969
Status: Accused

Died: 11/18/1992
Diocese: Diocese of Saint Cloud MN

On 1/03/14 the Diocese of St. Cloud released the names of 33 clergy, including Kremer, accused of the sexual abuse of minors. No information on the parish where the abuse occurred or when it occurred. In addition to other assignments, he was on the staff at St. John's Seminary, Diocese of St. Cloud. He died 11/18/92.

Assignments:

BA.org Assignment Record

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Fr. Richard Kujawa

Ordained: 1950
Status: Sued

Died: 08/7/1991
Diocese: Diocese of Saint Cloud MN

Accused in a 1993 lawsuit of sexually abusing an altar boy 1954-1961 when the boy was ages 11-18. Kujawa was assigned during the time in question to St. Joseph's in Bertha. He retired in 1985 and died 8/7/91. Name included on the diocese's list of accused released 1/3/14.

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Fr. Kenneth LaPan

Order: TOR
Ordained: 1952
Status: Accused

Died: 12/5/2019
Diocese: Diocese of Saint Cloud MN

Member of T.O.R. Franciscan community in Hollidaysburg PA, Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown. Worked in PA 1953-59, including as Boy Scout chaplain. In MN 1959-84, returning to PA 1984. Per the PA Grand Jury Presentment 3/15/16, LaPan was investigated in 1984 in MN for giving a car and money to an 18-year-old male; it was discovered LaPan sexually molested altar boys. Local church official told St. Cloud Bishop Speltz in a letter that the County Attorney would not press charges "out of respect for the Parish and Priesthood." LaPan's Order also received the letter. He was allowed to stay in ministry in PA. Retired. Living in 2016 at T.O.R. monastery in PA. Died in 12/19.

Assignments:

PA GJ Presentment 03.15.16

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Fr. Joseph Lendacky

Donate Photo

Order: OSC
Ordained: 1945
Status: Accused

Died: 05/31/1989
Diocese: Diocese of Saint Cloud MN

Worked mostly in MN but some in NE. Most of his career was spent at the Crosier Community and Seminary in Onamia. Died 5/31/89. Name is included on 3/8/14 updated list of current, former and deceased Crosiers with one or more credible claims of sexual abuse of minors. Allegation noted to have been received after Lendacky's death.

Assignments:

Assignment Record Released by Crosier Order 03.08.14

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Fr. Henry M. Lutgen

Ordained: 1947
Status: Accused

Diocese: Diocese of Saint Cloud MN

On 1/03/14 the Diocese of St. Cloud released the names of 33 clergy, including Lutgen, accused of the sexual abuse of minors. No information was provided on the parish where the abuse occurred or when it occurred. He worked at St. Mary's in Melrose; St. Mary's in Alexandria; St. Columbkille's in St Wendel; and Community Hospital and Pine Villa in Melrose. He also served as Superintendent of St. Cloud Children's House and as assistant Director and Director of Catholic Charities in St. Cloud. He is deceased.

Assignments:

BA.org Assignment Record

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Br. Gregory Madigan

Order: OSC
Status: Settled

Diocese: Diocese of Saint Cloud MN

Alleged to have molested at least six boys in the 1960s and 1970s. Confronted by parents in the mid-1970s; agreed to seek treatment. Admitted abuse of a 14-year-old boy in the 1980s at a Crosier minor seminary school in MN. The Crosiers reached a monetary settlement with victim when he came forward in 1988. Madigan was sent for treatment. At least one claim was included in a 2/09 settlement with Crosiers and nine accusers in MN. Retired and living under safety plan in Phoenix in 3/14.

Assignments:

Assignment Record Released by Crosier Order 03.08.14

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Fr. Brennan Maiers

Order: OSB
Ordained: 1963
Status: Settled

Died: 07/22/2022
Diocese: Diocese of Saint Cloud MN

A man filed suit in 2/92 claiming Maiers abused him at age 9 in 1966. Suit settled out of court in late 1992. Maiers admitted abuse and also that he had been arrested for soliciting an undercover officer at an adult movie theater in 1984. Also admitted to sexual relationships with a woman and two men in NY in the 1970s. Permanently removed from ministry in 2002. Living under restriction at St. John's Abbey. On their list released 12/9/13. Also on Addendum to 12/31/13 Duluth list and St. Cloud 1/3/14 list. St. Paul personnel file released 05/19/14. Maiers died in 7/22.

Assignments:

Jeff Anderson & Associates Assignment History

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Fr. Antonio F. Marfori

Ordained: 1978
Status: Sued

Diocese: Diocese of Saint Cloud MN

Accused in 10/12/15 lawsuit of engaging at least once in unpermitted sexual contact with Doe 75, a boy aged about 15 in 1978 at Cathedral High School, where Marfori worked 1978-80. Attorney Jeff Anderson stated that Marfori orally copulated the boy on a trip, and that a second boy was abused by Marfori in the same way. Marfori is a native of the Philippines and graduated from St John's University in Collegeville MN in 1972. After learning of the suit, the diocese removed Marfori's faculties and began an investigation. When the suit was filed, Marfori was not included in the diocese's list of clergy accused of sexual abuse or an addendum to that list. Marfori reportedly remembers the complainant but said there was "no truth" to the allegation. In a 3/16 lawsuit a second former Cathedral High student claimed abuse by Marfori in the 1970s. Diocese added name to its list in 1/18. Per bishop, Marfori was living under restrictions in the diocese. The diocese's list in 7/22 shows that Marfori was laicized.

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Fr. Finian McDonald

Order: OSB
Ordained: 1962
Status: Settled

Died: 02/9/2017
Diocese: Diocese of Saint Cloud MN

Teacher at St. John's University and dean of men/vice president for student affairs 1964-67. Listed in a 2002 lawsuit as one of eight accused abbey clergy members. Apparently abused a college student at least three times in 1975. Confessed in 2012 to molesting over 200 boys; 18 were dorm students at St. John's Prep. Supposedly was living as a "restricted" priest but he traveled frequently to the Bahamas until 2002. Named in new suit in 12/09. Name on list of monks likely to have offended against minors as released by Abbey 12/9/13. Died in 2/17.

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Br. Ron Melancon

Donate Photo

Order: OSC
Status: Accused

Diocese: Diocese of Saint Cloud MN

Took first vows 12/72. Spent most of his short career with the Order at Crosier Seminary in Onamia. Name is included on 3/8/14 updated list of current, former and deceased Crosiers with one or more credible claims of sexual abuse of minors. Left order in 1980 and was dispensed from vows 9/21/89. Living in 2014 in Louisiana. Was not a member of the Order at the time the allegation was made.

Assignments:

Assignment Record Released by Crosier Order 03.08.14

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Fr. James A. Mohm

Ordained: 1927
Status: Accused

Died: 09/8/1982
Diocese: Diocese of Saint Cloud MN

Served as German soldier during World War I. Later became U.S. Citizen. On 1/03/14 the Diocese of St. Cloud released the names of 33 clergy, including Mohm, accused of the sexual abuse of minors. Worked in Pierz, Brushvale, Maine and Osakis. Died 09/07/82.

Assignments:

BA.org Assignment Record

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Fr. Dunstan Moorse

Order: OSB
Ordained: 1978
Status: Settled

Diocese: Diocese of Saint Cloud MN

Two 1991 civil suits claim Moorse abused two boys while teaching at St. John's Prep in Collegeville in 1984. Abbot knew in 1984 but did nothing. Another Civil suit filed in 2002 alleged abuse in the 1980s. Suit settled against order at St. John's Abbey in 9/02 but claims against Moorse remained. Those were dismissed in 7/03 on SOL. Moorse remained at the abbey, restricted in his work and social activities. Name is on list of monks likely to have offended against minors as released by Abbey 12/9/13. Name added 11/3/17 to Archdiocese of St. Paul-Minneapolis list of "priests and religious brothers who have served or spent time in the archdiocese and have substantiated claims of sexual abuse of a minor against them."

Fr. Doug Mullin

Order: OSB
Ordained: 2007
Status: Sued

Diocese: Diocese of Saint Cloud MN

Initially a religious brother, Mullin made his monastic commitment with the Benedictines in 1979. Ordained for the priesthood in 2007. Accused in a 7/16 lawsuit of sexually abusing a 15-year-old boy in 1993 when the boy was a St. John's Prep student and Mullin was Dean of Students. Mullin denied the allegation. Went on leave from public ministry and moved out of St. John's University dorms, where he long resided. Stayed on as St. John's VP.

Sources:

KARE 07.25.16

Fr. Richard N. Ohlemacher

Order: OSC
Ordained: 1955
Status: Accused

Died: 07/29/2005
Diocese: Diocese of Saint Cloud MN

Taught at Our Lady of the Lake Seminary, Wawasee, IN for 16 years, and at Crosier Seminary in Onamia, MN for three years. Moved to Phoenix 1987. Helped out at area churches after retirement in 1992. One of 8 Crosier priests removed from public ministry in 2002 due to abuse allegations. Alleged incident at least 15 years prior. Member of Crosier Community of Phoenix until death 7/29/05.

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Fr. Kenneth M. Opat

Order: OSC
Ordained: 1969
Status: Sued

Died: 04/6/2011
Diocese: Diocese of Saint Cloud MN

Faculty member, registrar, vice-rector, counselor and facilities director at Crosier Seminary in Onamia MN 1969-86. In Minneapolis 1986-94 as provincial treasurer. Superior of Anoka MN Crosier Community 1993-2000. Founder of Central MN Teens Encounter Christ (TEC) Program in Andover MN, involved 1978-2008. Died 4/6/11. The Crosiers released a statement 5/4/16 that Opat was accused in a lawsuit of the sexual abuse of a minor. As of 6/7/17 Opat's name was not included on Crosiers' list of credibly accused clerics, published 1/27/17.

Assignments:

St Cloud Times 04.08.11

Sources:

Fr. Michael Paquet

Donate Photo

Order: OSC
Ordained: 1978
Status: Accused

Diocese: Diocese of Saint Cloud MN

Worked in MN and IN. Removed from ministry 11/18/02 and dismissed from Order 09/16/05. Name included on 3/8/14 updated list of current, former and deceased Crosiers with one or more credible claims of sexual abuse of minors. No information provided as to where he was assigned when abuse is alleged to have occurred. Director of Fort Wayne IN diocesan Retreat Center Retreat 1979-85, and youth minister. Living in Canada in 2014. Name added 11/3/17 to St. Paul-Minneapolis archdiocese's list. Name included on Ft. Wayne-South Bend diocese's list 10/18.

Assignments:

Assignment Record Released by Crosier Order 03.08.14

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Br. James Phillips

Order: OSB
Status: Accused

Diocese: Diocese of Saint Cloud MN

Professed vows as a Benedictine brother in 1970. Placed on "restriction" under a "safety plan" at St. John's Abbey in 2002 after allegations by two youths of abuse in the late 1970s. No privileges. Article of 7/10 reports that Phillips continued to come and go from the Abbey and associated freely with woman whose family includes an autistic grandson. Name included on list of monks likely to have offended against minors as released by Abbey 12/09/13. Name added to St. Paul and Minneapolis archdiocese list 11/3/17 of "priests and religious brothers who have served or spent time in the archdiocese and have substantiated claims of sexual abuse of a minor against them."

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Fr. Gregory H. Poser

Order: OSC
Ordained: 1975
Status: None

Diocese: Diocese of Saint Cloud MN

Suspended from ministry in 5/16 after diocese received a report that Poser sexually abused a girl on one occasion in the 1970s, while assigned to St. Odilia in Shoreview. Poser denied the allegation. The diocese informed law enforcement. No criminal charges. The Crosiers' Review Board determined that there was not sufficient evidence to substantiate misconduct. The Order announced on 8/17/30 that Poser would be reinstated.

Assignments:

BA.org Assignment Record

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Fr. Jerome Reisinger

Ordained: 1953
Status: Sued

Died: 02/1/1994
Diocese: Diocese of Saint Cloud MN

Named publicly as accused by the diocese on its list 2/23/21. Noted to have been named in a lawsuit(s), with no determination as to credibility of the allegations. Reisinger died in 1994.

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Fr. Donald W. Rieder

Ordained: 1955
Status: Convicted

Died: 05/18/2013
Diocese: Diocese of Saint Cloud MN

Admitted in 2002 to molesting three girls in the 1980s and one in the 1990s. Sentenced in a plea bargain in 6/03 to one year in jail in the 1990s case. She filed suit 1in 2/02. Settled in 2003 for $500K. A woman told the Vicar General in the early 1990s Rieder had molested her daughter. V.G. promised Rieder would never minister publicly again. Retired in 1996; privileges not removed until 2002. Another civil suit settled in 10/05 for $17.5K. At least 9 accusers in all. Named on St. Cloud list issued 1/3/14. Died 5/18/13. Two more suits filed 8/25/15 by women claiming sexual abuse as girls in the 1960s by Rieder. Assignments included parishes in Alexandria, Randall, Kimball, Morris, Roscoe, Paynesville, Little Falls, Sobieski and St. Cloud.

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Br. Anton Schik

Donate Photo

Order: OSC
Status: Accused

Died: 12/22/1971
Diocese: Diocese of Saint Cloud MN

A/k/a Anthony or Tony. Worked at Crosier Seminary and Monastery in Onamia, MN 1932-48. At Wawasee Prep in Syracuse, IN from 1948 until he died 12/22/71. Name included on 3/8/14 updated list of current, former and deceased Crosiers with one or more credible claims of sexual abuse of minors. He was deceased by the time the allegation of abuse was made. Unable to determine where he was assigned at time alleged abuse occurred. Diocese may be either Fort Wayne-South Bend, IN or St. Cloud MN.

Assignments:

Assignment Record Released by Crosier Order 03.08.14

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Fr. David Sheldon

Ordained: 1951
Status: Accused

Died: 12/2/1982
Diocese: Diocese of Saint Cloud MN

Named publicly as accused by the St. Cloud diocese on its list in 2/21. Noted to be the subject of a lawsuit(s), the credibility of the allegations not made. Assigned to a parish in Monroe LA until 1953, when he joined the St. Cloud diocese. Sheldon died in 1982.

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Fr. Paul Shurek

Order: SVD
Status: Sued

Died: 02/2/1963
Diocese: Diocese of Saint Cloud MN

From Poland. Ordained for the Society of the Divine Word in 1920. Arrived shortly after ordination to the U.S. Assigned to the Divine Word Seminary in Techny IL, and in 1926 to St. Augustine's Seminary in Bay St. Louis LA, followed by parish work in St. Louis MO and Chicago IL. Worked beginning in 1930 in the Diocese of St. Cloud at parishes in Pierz, St. Anna, Morril, Harding and Elmdale. Died in 1963. Shurek was named publicly as accused by the diocese on its list in 2/21. Noted to be the subject of a lawsuit(s), the credibility of the allegations not determined.

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Fr. Robert A. Smith

Donate Photo

Ordained: 1946
Status: Accused

Died: 07/18/1987
Diocese: Diocese of Saint Cloud MN

On 1/03/14 the Diocese of St. Cloud released the names of 33 clergy, including Smith, involved in incidents of likely claims of sexual abuse of minors. Worked in a number of parishes across the diocese. Spent some time as chaplain of Poor Clare Sisters in Sauk Rapids. Died 7/13/87.

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Fr. Peter D. Snyers

Ordained: 1953
Status: Accused

Died: 01/19/2012
Diocese: Diocese of Saint Cloud MN

On 1/03/14 the Diocese of St. Cloud released the names of 33 clergy, including Snyers, accused of the sexual abuse of minors. Held multiple assignments within the diocese, including Boy Scouts chaplain. Retired 7/2/01. Died 1/19/12.

Assignments:

BA.org Assignment Record

Sources:

Fr. Allan P. Speiser

Ordained: 1948
Status: Accused

Died: 10/5/2001
Diocese: Diocese of Saint Cloud MN

On 1/03/14 the Diocese of St. Cloud released the names of 33 clergy, including Speiser, accused of the sexual abuse of minors. Held multiple assignments at parishes within the diocese and also for the diocese itself. He retired in 1992 and died 10/5/01.

Assignments:

BA.org Assignment Record

Sources:

Fr. Allen Tarlton

Order: OSB
Ordained: 1955
Status: Settled

Died: 01/25/2016
Diocese: Diocese of Saint Cloud MN

Allegedly abused a student in 1979 at St. John's Prep. Sent for treatment then allowed to return to teaching at the school. In a 1992 civil suit, he was accused of molesting another boy at least three times in 1982 at school. On medical leave in 1992. Worked as director of the Oblate program at St. John's Abbey and lived under restrictions. Relieved of duties after a second suit was filed in 6/02 claiming abuse in 1985. A 7/12 lawsuit alleged fraud against Abbey. Suit filed 6/5/13 alleged abuse of a student in 1997; settled in 2015. On Abbey's 12/9/13 list. Suit filed 4/12/16 by a former St. John's Prep student claiming abuse 1979 or '80; plaintiff also accused Rev. Thomas Andert. Tarlton died in 1/16.

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Fr. Mel Taylor

Order: OSB
Ordained: 1967
Status: Accused

Diocese: Diocese of Saint Cloud MN

From Ireland. Associated with St. John's Abbey from the 1960s. Was reportedly sent to the Bahamas in 1980 for a year after allegations. Sent there again in 1990 due to "rumors." Worked in the Bahamas for 20 years. In 6/12 a young man publicly confronted Taylor at mass, claiming the priest tried to pursue a sexual relationship with him for the previous year and a half. Taylor had been scheduled leave the Bahamas 6/24/12 for parish assignment in Collegeville, but left several weeks early, after the confrontation, "for health reasons." Also in 6/12 a man alleged abuse by Taylor as a St. John's Prep student in the early 1980s. The new assignment was put on hold. Taylor is believed to have returned to Ireland. Attorney for the Abbey was conducting an investigation.

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Fr. James A. Thoennes

Ordained: 1964
Status: Settled

Died: 04/26/2019
Diocese: Diocese of Saint Cloud MN

First allegations in 1993. Civil suit in the 1990s alleged abuse of a male minor; settled prior to trial. Thoennes admitted in a deposition that he molested at least four young people in the 1960s-1980s. The bishop knew of allegations yet reassigned him to another parish. A second civil suit filed in 6/02 alleged abuse in the mid-1960s. After 1993 he worked in diocesan archives in a supervised setting. Privileges removed in 6/02. A third man filed a civil suit in 1/09 against the diocese, alleging fraud. A fourth suit was filed in 1/14. Included on the diocese's list 1/3/14. Thoennes died in 4/19.

Fr. Roger Vaughn

Order: OSC
Ordained: 1977
Status: Sued

Diocese: Diocese of Saint Cloud MN

Dismissed from Order 9/27/01. As part of 2/09 settlement, Order admitted that it had received credible allegations of child sex abuse committed by Vaughn. Note that none of the plaintiffs in the 2/09 settlement was an alleged victim of Vaughn. As of 3/10 he was at an Orthodox-Catholic Church of America Parish in New York. Name on list of priests released by Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis 12/5/13 but Archdiocese denied any claims of abuse of minor within the Archdiocese. Name on St. Cloud list of 1/3/14 and Crosier list of 3/8/14. Named in suit filed in 7/15. Name included in 10/22 on the Chicago archdiocese's list of credibly accused.

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Fr. Daniel J. Ward

Order: OSB
Ordained: 1971
Status: Indicted

Diocese: Diocese of Saint Cloud MN

As of 10/12, five men and two women have made complaints against Ward dating back to 1970s and his assignment at St. John's College and at St. John's Prep School. He has been accused of unwelcome advances, kissing, and threats of failing them in class. At least one accuser was a minor and others were college students. In 2012 Ward was Executive Director of Resource Center for Religious Institutes(RCRI) in MD. Ward was to step down from his position in late 2013 for a sabbatical.

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Deacon Michael Willard Weber

Status: Settled

Diocese: Diocese of Saint Cloud MN

Former seminary student and deacon for several months in 1969-70 at Church of the Holy Spirit in St. Cloud. Went on to become involved in various public service and community activities until 2011, when he resigned from most. Diocese announced in 11/11 that it had learned of two credible sexual abuse allegations against Weber. Claims reported to police. A total of 9 accusers had come forward by 12/11. Suit filed by one man 12/13/11 claimed abuse in 1970. Settled in 7/12. Name on St. Cloud diocese's 1/3/14 list.

Fr. Justin K. Weger

Order: OSC
Ordained: 1952
Status: Accused

Died: 01/15/2005
Diocese: Diocese of Saint Cloud MN

Worked in MN 1953-72, IN 1973-74 and in Phoenix and Tucson until 1976. Removed from ministry without faculties in 1976. Director of Tribal Lodge 1977-2002. Weger and 7 other Crosiers were removed in 10/02 for past abuse of minors. Per summary report of 2002 third party investigation of Crosiers, Weger, who was retired and living in Phoenix, would be living under restriction at a long-term care senior housing facility. He died 01/15/05. Name first appeared on Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis list of credibly accused 05/22/14. Added to Gallup diocese's list 12/10/18 (it encompassed Phoenix until Diocese of Phoenix was established in 1969.) Included on the St. Cloud diocese's list.

Fr. Pirmin George Wendt

Donate Photo

Order: OSB
Ordained: 1924
Status: Settled

Died: 08/15/1982
Diocese: Diocese of Saint Cloud MN

One of 10 individuals included in a 3/11 settlement by St. John's Abbey of Collegeville. All of the accused taught at St. John's Preparatory School or were assigned to parishes in St. Cloud. Wendt died 8/15/82. As part of settlement, the Abbey to release the names of 17 individuals with credible allegations against them. Name is included on list released by Abbey 12/9/13 of those monks likely to have offended against minors. Name added 11/3/17 to St. Paul-Minneapolis archdiocese list of "priests and religious brothers who have served or spent time in the archdiocese and have substantiated claims of sexual abuse of a minor against them."

Assignments:

Archdicoese of St Paul and Minneapolis Assignment Record

Sources:

Fr. William J. Wey

Ordained: 1947
Status: Accused

Died: 07/8/1988
Diocese: Diocese of Saint Cloud MN

On 1/03/14 the Diocese of St. Cloud released the names of 33 clergy, including Wey, accused of the sexual abuse of minors. Worked in St. Cloud, Brooten, Sedan, Tinath, Dent, Dumont and Collis. Died 07/18/88.

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Fr. Joseph Bartholome Wiersgalla

Ordained: 1951
Status: Sued

Died: 12/19/2003
Diocese: Diocese of Saint Cloud MN

Named publicly as accused by the diocese on its list in 2/21. Noted to be the subject of a lawsuit(s), the credibility of the allegations not determined. Assigned to parishes in Gilman, Sauk Rapids, Harding, Morrill, St. Anthony, Holdingford, Becker, Bertha and Moran. Died in 2003.

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Fr. Bruce Wollmering

Order: OSB
Ordained: 1967
Status: Settled

Diocese: Diocese of Saint Cloud MN

Name released to public 7/29/06. Accused in 2004 of two allegations of "sexual misconduct early in the 1980s" as reported by a former St. John's Abbey student. May have had his faculties permanently removed prior to his death 2/4/09. Named in two new suits filed in 12/09 alleging abuse in 1971 and 1984-86. Claims settled in 3/11 in conjunction with others involving the Abbey. Name included on list of monks likely to have offended against minors as released by the Abbey 12/09/13. Suit filed 4/12/16 by former St. John's Prep student claiming abuse by Wollmering and Rev. Thomas Andert 1970-71.

Fr. Adalbert Wolski

Order: TOR
Ordained: 1958
Status: Accused

Died: 01/3/2012
Diocese: Diocese of Saint Cloud MN

On 1/03/14 the Diocese of St. Cloud released the names of 33 clergy, including Wolski, with claims of sexual abuse of minors. Cathedral High School in St. Cloud appears to be his only assignment in the diocese. Spent time in Paraguay in the 1960s. Died 1/3/12 at St. Bernardine Monastery in PA, age 80. Included on the St. Paul and Minneapolis archdiocese's list in 10/14. Named in PA AG's 3/15/16 Grand Jury Report. Per report, abused 3 boys, ages 10-11,1963-67, at an Altoona PA parish. Said to have taken little boys into parish offices and fondled their genitals. Bishop Adamec and T.O.R. Provincial Giles Schinelli learned of allegations in 1991. Robert D'Avdersa, T.O.R. and Adamec assigned Wolski to hospital ministry. Schinelli, D'Aversa and Anthony M. Criscitelli, T.O.R. were criminally charged 3/15/16 with child endangerment and conspiracy related to the Wolski case and other T.O.R. Franciscan child sex abusers under their supervision. On Wheeling-Charleston list late 2018; there 1990-91.

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Fr. Vincent Arthur Yzermans

Ordained: 1951
Status: Accused

Died: 05/4/1995
Diocese: Diocese of Saint Cloud MN

On 1/03/14 the Diocese of St. Cloud released the names of 33 clergy, including Yzermans, involved in incidents of likely claims of sexual abuse of minors. No information as to where or when the abuse occurred. He worked at multiple parishes within the diocese. Also served as editor of Our Sunday Visitor and wrote several religious books. Admitted to long battle with alcoholism and 12 stints in treatment. Died 5/4/95 in NM. On Santa Rosa diocese's list 1/12/19. It notes he was listed as "On Duty" in the diocese 1975-76, but no record of an assignment there.

Assignments:

BA.org Assignment Record

Sources:

Fr. Francis J. Zilkoski

Donate Photo

Ordained: 1924
Status: Accused

Died: 05/19/1978
Diocese: Diocese of Saint Cloud MN

On 1/03/14 the Diocese of St. Cloud released the names of 33 clergy, including Zilkoski (misspelled Zilkowski) accused of the sexual abuse of minors. Worked in Foreston, Flensburg, Little Falls and Opole. Was also Chancellor of Diocese. Died 5/19/78.

Assignments:

BA.org Assignment Record

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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.