Diocese of Cleveland OH - BishopAccountability.org

70 Accused in This Diocese

Fr. Richard A. Arko

Ordained: 1990
Status: Accused

Arrested 1/2004 on charges that he was growing marijuana in the church rectory and selling it. Police learned of the marijuana from an informant who also said he had been in a sexual relationship with Arko since he was 15 and that the priest would give him gifts, money and drugs in exchange for sex. In 7/2004 Arko also lost his state license to perform massage therapy, based on the felony conviction for growing pot. Resigned from ministry in 2005. Laicization announced 7/20/2015. Included on the diocese's list of credibly accused in 6/2019.

Assignments:

BA.org Assignment Record

Sources:

Fr. George F. Bailey

Ordained: 1963
Status: Accused

Died: 11/20/2020
Diocese: Diocese of Cleveland OH

Left the priesthood in the late 1980s. Per 2002 news, at least 10 women had accused him of abusing them when they were grade-school students at St. Vincent School in Akron and St. Mary's School in Bedford. Apparently these accusations were made known to the Diocese before Bailey left the priesthood. Laicization announced in 3/2014. Included on the diocese's list of credibly accused in 6/2019. Bailey died 11/20/2020.

Assignments:

BA.org Assignment Record

Sources:

Deacon Jerry Bals

Ordained: 1973
Status: Settled

Diocese: Diocese of Cleveland OH

Ordained as deacon in 1973. Accused of fondling girls in counseling sessions at Lake Catholic High School, where he was was a guidance counselor and librarian. Bals also worked for several years beginning in the 1980s at St. Ignatius High School. Sued in 1993 by a woman who said Bals began sexually abusing her as a Lake Catholic student in the summer of 1973. Suspended by diocese. She went to Mentor police in 1984 and was told there wasn't enough evidence to prosecute. More women came forward in 1993. Bals was charged with abusing at least six Lake Catholic girls. Charges dropped in a plea deal; required to forfeit his teaching credentials. Six women filed suit, which settled. Permanently removed from ministry. The diocese paid Bals' wife $800/mo 2000-2003, while Bals was living with her, reportedly to help with their eight children. Included in 6/2019 on the diocese's list of credibly accused.

Sources:

Fr. Russell J. Banner

Ordained: 1967
Status: Accused

Died: 04/17/2023
Diocese: Diocese of Cleveland OH

Placed on leave in 2002 pending review of past allegations. Previously underwent evaluation and treatment then returned to active ministry. In 2004 a second man alleged abuse for two years when he ages 12-14 and a resident at Parmadale Childrens' Home, where Banner was a deacon counseling children. This man filed suit in 2004. Banner worked in Phoenix, AZ 1986-1987. Laicization announced 3/19/2015. Included on the diocese's list of credibly accused. Said to have died in 4/2023 in Bradenton FL, where he had been living at least since 2004.

Assignments:

BA.org Assignment Record

Sources:

Fr. Raymond B. Bartnikowski

Ordained: 1963
Status: Accused

Died: 11/16/2007
Diocese: Diocese of Cleveland OH

Placed on leave in 2002. A woman claimed that he abused her in 1967 when she was age 12. Two other women came forward to allege abuse as girls in the 1960s. He is accused of spanking their bare bottoms. Died in 11/2007. Included on the diocese's list of credibly accused.

Assignments:

BA.org Assignment Record

Sources:

Fr. Kenneth Bogucki

Ordained: 1984
Status: Accused

Diocese: Diocese of Cleveland OH

Named publicly as accused by the diocese on its list 6/21/2019. Laicized.

Sources:

Diocese of Cleveland List 06.21.19

Br. Paul Botty

Order: SM
Status: Convicted

Died: 12/27/2007
Diocese: Diocese of Cleveland OH

Professed vows in 1980. Assignments included Chaminade Julienne High School in Dayton, OH and St. Joseph's High School in Cleveland. Removed from public ministry in 1986. Convicted of sexual battery. In 3/1986 sentenced to 7 1/2 years for molesting four teenage boys; 12 felony counts dismissed. Case reported in State v. Botty, 1988 WL 86954 (Ohio App). Died 12/27/2007 in CA. Marianist Newsletter 1/8/2008 referred to him as a "former Marianist." Included on the U.S. Marianists list 6/24/2020, with the suffix F.X.

Sources:

Fr. Donald P. Brickman

Ordained: 1981
Status: Sued

Diocese: Diocese of Cleveland OH

Assigned to St. Joseph's in Cuyahoga Falls 1981-1986, St. Bartholomew in Middleburg Heights 1986-1989. Canon Lawyer for the Marriage Tribunal from 1989. Placed on leave in 2002 due to an allegation that he abused a minor in the late 1980s. Underwent evaluation and treatment then returned to ministry. Placed on leave in 2002. Named in a 2003 civil suit. Laicization announced 12/26/2008. Included on the diocese's list of credibly accused.

Assignments:

BA.org Assignment Record

Sources:

Fr. Henry A. Brockman

Order: SJ
Status: Accused

Died: 02/21/1973
Diocese: Diocese of Cleveland OH

Entered the order 8/11/1900. Ordained in 1915. Named publicly as accused by the Jesuits Midwest Province on its list 12/17/2018, which notes multiple allegations of abuse occurring in the 1950s-1960s, while assigned to St. Ignatius High School in Cleveland. Died 2/21/1973.

Assignments:

Jesuits Midwest Province Assignment Record 12.21.18

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Fr. Joseph F. Brodnick

Ordained: 1969
Status: Accused

Diocese: Diocese of Cleveland OH

Placed on leave in 2002. Had previously been accused of an 'inappropriate relationship' with a girl in her late teens in the mid-1970s, while in Cleveland. Had been treated, evaluated and allowed to return to ministry in 1997 when transferred to the Rochester, NY diocese. Worked at St. Joseph's hospital since beginning 1/1997. Rochester diocese and hospital knew of past allegations. Permanently removed from ministry.

Assignments:

BA.org Assignment Record

Sources:

Fr. Robert C. Broome

Order: SJ
Ordained: 1943
Status: Accused

Died: 04/17/2000
Diocese: Diocese of Cleveland OH

Named publicly as accused by the Jesuits Midwest Province on its list 12/17/2018. Joined the order in 1930. Subject of a single allegation of abuse, occurring while assigned to St. Ignatius High School in Cleveland in 1956, reported after his death. Broome died 4/17/2000. Included on the Archdiocese of Cincinnati's list in 1/2020. Included in the IL Attorney General's Report 5/23/2023; assigned to St. Ignatius College Prep Chicago 1949-1956.

Assignments:

Jesuits Midwest Province Assignment Record 12.21.18

Sources:

Fr. Allen F. Bruening

Ordained: 1951
Status: Sued

Died: 03/3/2015
Diocese: Diocese of Cleveland OH

Accused of abusing two brothers almost 20 years apart. Parents first complained in 1968 or 1969; Diocese said he would receive treatment but instead he was transferred to a new high school. After complaints in 1984 he was removed and assigned as chaplain at Community Hospital. Later given another parish assignment. Civil suit filed in 1991. Sent to work in Amarillo, TX diocese after treatment at Paracletes Center. Vatican ordered permanent removal from ministry as of 6/14/2007. Given "Life of Prayer and Penance" per 2010 Catholic Directory. Died 3/3/2015. On the Cleveland diocese's list in 6/2019 of those with substantiated allegations against them.

Assignments:

BA.org Assignment Record

Sources:

Fr. Thomas R. Burg

Ordained: 1964
Status: Accused

Died: 10/18/2002
Diocese: Diocese of Cleveland OH

Diocese released names in 4/2002 of Burg and 11 other priests who were no longer in active ministry because of allegations in the past of abuse of minors. Accused of molesting at least one young girl during confession. Died 9/18/2002. Included on the diocese's list in 2019 of those against whom there were substantiated allegations. Included in 10/2022 on the Chicago archdiocese's list, where he was assigned as an extern priest at some point. Included in the 5/23/2023 IL Attorney General's Report.

Assignments:

BA.org Assignment Record

Sources:

Fr. Ignatius M. Burrill

Order: SJ
Ordained: 1937
Status: Settled

Died: 03/8/1987
Diocese: Diocese of Cleveland OH

In 8/2011 the Jesuit Province of Chicago-Detroit announced that a former St. Ignatius High School in Cleveland, OH student had come forward to allege abuse by Burrill 1952-1956. In 4/2012, Attorney Mitchell Garabedian announced a recent settlement of one claim involving Burrill. On the Midwest Jesuit Province list 12/17/2018. It notes multiple allegations of abuse, occurring in the 1950s while assigned to St. Ignatius High School in Cleveland and in 1977 while at Loyola Academy in Wilmette, IL. Died 3/8/1987. Included on the Chicago archdiocese's list in 10/2022. Included in the 5/23/2023 IL Attorney General's Report.

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Sources:

Fr. John Ciolek

Ordained: 1938
Status: Accused

Died: 09/25/1986
Diocese: Diocese of Cleveland OH

Named publicly as accused by the diocese on its list 6/21/2019. Died 9/25/1986.

Sources:

Diocese of Cleveland List 06.21.19

Fr. John Connor

Donate Photo

Ordained: 1959
Status: Accused

Diocese: Diocese of Cleveland OH

Named publicly as accused by the diocese on its list 6/21/2019. Deceased.

Sources:

Diocese of Cleveland List 06.21.19

Fr. Neil P. Conway

Ordained: 1963
Status: Sued

Diocese: Diocese of Cleveland OH

Admitted to molesting at least eight boys 1968-1985. Caught in 1985 and sent for counseling. Left church on total disability in 1987; psych reports showed he could not function effectively. At least two victims sued him prior to 4/2002. Name released by diocese in 4/2002. A third suit was filed in 3/2004. No criminal prosecution. Included on the diocese's list of credibly accused.

Assignments:

BA.org Assignment Record

Sources:

Fr. Anselm Deehr

Donate Photo

Order: ST
Ordained: 1990
Status: Sued

Diocese: Diocese of Cleveland OH

Was a religious brother for many years prior to his 1990 ordination. Founded the Our Lady of Fatima Center in Cleveland, OH, where he worked 1970-1987. Accused of abuse of a boy there 1983-1987, who sued in the early 2000s. Included in the Lost Angeles archdiocese's 10/2008 "Final Addendum to the Report to the People of God." Worked in Cleveland, Atlanta GA, Washington DC, Stirling NJ, Los Angeles and Adelphi, MD.

Assignments:

BishopAccountability Assignment Record

Sources:

Fr. Joseph Ehrbar

Ordained: 1945
Status: Accused

Died: 02/16/1979
Diocese: Diocese of Cleveland OH

Named publicly as accused by the diocese on its list 6/21/2019. Died in 1979.

Sources:

Fr. Leonard A. Ferrante

Ordained: 1964
Status: Accused

Diocese: Diocese of Cleveland OH

Listed by the diocese in 4/2002 as as no longer in active ministry because of allegations in the past of abuse of minors. Assigned to Borromeo Seminary High School and College 1967-1976, and to Lake County Catholic High School 1972-1973. The Official Catholic Directory shows Ferrante to have been on leave 1976-1979, does not index him 1980-1986, and shows him as Absent on Leave 1986-1988. He is not indexed beyond 1988. Laicized, per the diocese's list in 6/2019.

Assignments:

BA.org Assignment Record

Sources:

Fr. Thomas M. Gannon

Order: SJ
Ordained: 1967
Status: Accused

Died: 12/19/2011
Diocese: Diocese of Cleveland OH

Named publicly as accused by the Jesuits Midwest Province on its list 12/17/2018. Multiple allegations of abuse, occurring while assigned to St. Ignatius High School in Cleveland, OH 1961-1964; St. James Church in Gary, IN in 1983; and Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church in Chicago, IL in 1993. Died 12/19/2011. The Province's 2/21/2020 revised list adds alleged abuse 1977-1978 while at Loyola University in Chicago and in 1998 while assigned to Holy Family Parish in Chicago. Included on the Chicago archdiocese's list in 10/2022. Included in the 5/23/2023 IL Attorney General's Report, which notes 6 "reported survivors." In 8/2023 a man publicly stated that Gannon sexually abused him when he was an 11-year-old altar boy in 1971, at St. Jerome's in Chicago.

Assignments:

Jesuits Midwest Province Assignment Record 12.21.18

Sources:

Fr. Gerald B. Garvey

Order: SJ
Ordained: 1934
Status: Accused

Died: 08/3/1960
Diocese: Diocese of Cleveland OH

Named publicly as accused by the Jesuits Midwest Province on its list 12/17/2018. Abuse was alleged to have occurred while assigned to St. Ignatius High School in Cleveland in the 1950s. Died 8/3/1960. Included in the 5/23/2023 IL Attorney General's Report, noting at least two "reported survivors."

Assignments:

Jesuits Midwest Province Assignment Record 12.21.18

Sources:

Fr. Oscar Gumucio

Donate Photo

Order: SJ
Status: Accused

Diocese: Diocese of Cleveland OH

Named publicly as accused by the Jesuits Midwest Province on its list 12/17/2019. From the Bolivia Province. Joined the order in 1947. A single allegation of abuse was reported after his death, occurring while assigned to St. Patrick's Parish and Lincoln Junior High School in Cleveland 1970-1972. Gumucio was dismissed 6/20/1975.

Assignments:

Jesuits Midwest Province Assignment Record 12.21.18

Sources:

Jesuits Midwest Province List 12.17.18

Fr. George T. Hovanec

Ordained: 1929
Status: Accused

Died: 02/20/1965
Diocese: Diocese of Cleveland OH

In 4/2002 a woman wrote to Archbishop Pilla that she was abused as a child by Hovanec 47 years before. She said she was in 7th grade when Hovanec touched and patted her in a very sexually inappropriate way before inviting her to the basement to count Sunday envelopes. She fled. He was unassigned 1961-1965 and died in 2/1965.

Assignments:

BA.org Assignment Record

Sources:

Akron Beacon Journal 05.10.02

Fr. Matthew A. Ischay

Ordained: 1975
Status: Sued

Diocese: Diocese of Cleveland OH

Removed from position as parochial vicar at St. Paul in Akron as of 8/26/2011 and placed on administrative leave after a civil suit was filed in Cuyahoga County. Complaint alleged that Ischay was involved in 'misconduct' with a minor in the late 1970s. Assigned to St. Richard parish in North Olmsted from ordination until some time in 1981. Civil suit dropped in 10/2011 at plaintiff's request due to the statute of limitations. At least four other accusers came forward after the suit was filed. Per the diocese's list 6/21/2019, Ischay was on administrative leave pending the Vatican's decision regarding laicization. The list in 8/2022 shows Ischay to have been laicized.

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Fr. John O. Jacoby

Ordained: 1953
Status: Settled

Died: 04/19/2017
Diocese: Diocese of Cleveland OH

Accused of abusing at least six girls in the 1960s St. Mary High School in Akron. Transferred after two girls reported abuse. Jacoby left the diocese and the priesthood in 1982 and later married. Five claimants settled with the diocese in 2003. In 2005 the women said that the diocese failed to satisfy the terms of the settlement that stipulated each would receive a written apology and the diocese would make a public apology. Jacoby died in 2017. Included on the diocese's list of credibly accused in 6/2019.

Assignments:

BA.org Assignment Record

Sources:

Fr. Edward Kickel

Donate Photo

Ordained: 1922
Status: Accused

Died: 12/13/1972
Diocese: Diocese of Cleveland OH

Monsignor. Several complaints in the 1950s -1960s. Nothing done. Nicknamed "The Feeler" for molesting girls during religion class. In 1969 faculty and parents at St. Francis de Sales in Parma held a meeting about allegations against Kickel. The pastor barred Kickel from hearing confessions and teaching religion classes, and told parents to keep quiet or they would be guilty of a mortal sin and go to hell. One woman was denied counseling in 2000 because the Diocese said it could not find facts to support her claim. After a 2002 news report, almost a dozen women called the news outlet to say they too had been abused by Kickel. He died in 12/1972. Included on the diocese's list 6/21/2019.

Assignments:

BA.org Assignment Record

Sources:

Fr. Liam Kitt

Ordained: 1943
Status: Accused

Died: 05/3/2017
Diocese: Diocese of Cleveland OH

From Ireland, where he was ordained. Arrived in the U.S. in 1944. Named publicly as accused by the Diocese on its list 6/21/2019. Kitt died in 2017, age 100, in Ireland. Per his obituary, Kitt's full name was Canon William Liam Kitt.

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Fr. Frank Klamet

Ordained: 1978
Status: Accused

Died: 04/19/2009
Diocese: Diocese of Cleveland OH

Named publicly as accused by the Cleveland diocese on its list 6/21/2019. Abuse substantiated. Included on the Cincinnati archdiocese's list in 1/2020. Parish priest, missionary in El Salvador, family medicine physician. Died 4/19/2009 at age 57.

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Fr. Joseph P. Labbe

Ordained: 1975
Status: Accused

Diocese: Diocese of Cleveland OH

Labbe's name was included on a list of priests placed on leave in 4/2002 by the Cleveland diocese because of recent allegations of past abuse. Reportedly, during the 1980s several teenage boys accused him of sexually abusing them. Labbe denied the allegations. He was director of admissions at Borromeo Seminary College in Wickliffe (1981-1991). Laicization announced 9/24/2010. Included on the diocese's list of credibly accused in 6/2019.

Assignments:

BA.org Assignment Record

Sources:

Fr. Victor M. Lambur

Ordained: 1937
Status: Accused

Died: 02/11/1994
Diocese: Diocese of Cleveland OH

Named publicly as credibly accused by the diocese in 1/2022. Lambur died in 1994.

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Fr. Joseph J. Lang

Ordained: 1965
Status: Accused

Died: 04/2/2013
Diocese: Diocese of Cleveland OH

Name on 4/2002 list of priests removed from assignments due to past allegations of abuse. Allegation against Lang was based on report of sexual activity with a minor in the U.S. In 1988 Lang was "loaned" to the Diocese of Prince George in Canada and continued to work there until 4/2002 when his faculties were revoked by the Cleveland bishop. Lang had received treatment and was allowed to return to work, per the list. Vatican permanently removed him from active ministry as of 6/14/2007. Died 4/2/2013. Included on the diocese's list of credibly accused.

Assignments:

BA.org Assignment Record

Sources:

Rev. John A. Leahy

Ordained: 1957
Status: Sued

Died: 03/29/2005
Diocese: Diocese of Cleveland OH

Accused in a 3/2023 lawsuit of sexually abusing a girl in the mid- 1970s at Parmadale Children's Village. The girl resided there for several years, beginning when she was age 7. Leahy was administrator of Parmadale 1973-1981. Per the lawsuit, Leahy abused the girl at his cottage on Parmadale property while other men watched. Further, he would force her and another child to perform sexual acts. The alleged victim also claimed physical and emotional abuse by the nuns, especially Myra Wasikowski. Leahy died in 2005.

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Fr. Joseph J. Lieberth

Ordained: 1968
Status: Sued

Diocese: Diocese of Cleveland OH

On a 4/2002 list of priests in the Cleveland diocese who had been accused in the past of sexual abuse. Had received evaluation and treatment and was returned to ministry. Admitted molesting the 17-year-old son of a church deacon, during a trip to CA in 1986. Lieberth referred to it as an "isolated incident" and auxiliary bishop Quinn persuaded the victim and family not to call police. Another accuser came forward in 2002 alleging abuse on trip in 1985. A civil suit was filed in 7/2002 by the first accuser. Still on leave 2009. Diocese announced in 3/2015 that Lieberth was given "a life of prayer and penance." Included on the diocese's list of credibly accused.

Assignments:

BA.org Assignment Record

Sources:

Fr. Martin J. Louis

Ordained: 1966
Status: Convicted

Diocese: Diocese of Cleveland OH

In 1990 a 20-year-old woman accused Louis of molesting and raping her several times when she was age 10. Diocese forced Louis to resign and sent him to counseling. Girl filed civil suit in 1991; settled in 1992. Louis indicted on rape charges in 1992; sentenced in 1993 to 5-25 years in prison. Still in prison 8/2011. Other victims came forward when charges filed. He admitted in therapy to abusing as many as 90 (diocese said really 14-16). In 2001, a civil suit was filed alleging Louis also abused a young man. Laicized, per the diocese's list in 6/2019.

Assignments:

BA.org Assignment Record

Sources:

Fr. Theodore Lucas

Ordained: 1984
Status: Accused

Diocese: Diocese of Cleveland OH

On 'medical leave of absence' beginning in 3/2014. The Diocese announced 5/16/2018 that Lucas was being placed on administrative leave due to a credible allegation of "sexual misconduct involving a minor." Pending further investigation, Lucas was not "to function in any capacity as a priest anywhere." Assigned 1984-1989 to St. Bartholomew's in Middleburg Heights, 1989-1997 to Resurrection of Our Lord in Solon and St. Mary Magdalene's in Willowick 1997-2014. Per the diocese's list 6/21/2019, Lucas was on administrative leave pending the Vatican's decision regarding laicization.

Assignments:

Diocese of Cleveland Assignment Record

Sources:

Fr. Thomas J. Luckay

Ordained: 1965
Status: Accused

Diocese: Diocese of Cleveland OH

Name appeared on a 4/2002 list of Cleveland priests no longer in active ministry because of allegations in the past of abuse of minors. Not indexed in the Official Catholic Directory after 1991. Included on the diocese's list of credibly accused in 6/2019, noted to have been permanently removed. The list updated in 2022 shows that Luckay had been laicized.

Assignments:

BA.org Assignment Record

Sources:

Fr. Daniel J. Mangen

Order: CPPS
Ordained: 1980
Status: Sued

Diocese: Diocese of Cleveland OH

Reportedly in 3/2002 a woman accused Mangen of sexually abusing and raping her for three years in the early 1980s, when she was ages 16-18. Lawsuit filed in 1999. Mangen had acknowledged being sexually active with adults and minors but denied the woman's claims. He did admit that he had been sexually active with two parishioners during the time in question. Worked in Chile in 1984 and later in Peru. Believed to be in Valdivia, Chile as of 11/2010 (not as a priest).

Assignments:

BA.org Assignment Record

Sources:

Fr. Daniel R. McBride

Ordained: 1951
Status: Convicted

Died: 01/12/2015
Diocese: Diocese of Cleveland OH

Placed on leave in 2002 when charged with the recent abuse of a 17-year-old boy, who was part of prostitution ring. Pleaded guilty to soliciting a minor. McBride was age 75 when the incident occurred. Sentenced to three years probation in 6/2003. Charges resulted from an investigation of Parmadale residential treatment facility, operated by Cleveland Catholic Charities for children with histories of delinquent behavior and emotional problems. On Administrative Leave until his death 1/12/2015. Included on the diocese's list of credibly accused.

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Sources:

Fr. John William McCool

Ordained: 1973
Status: Accused

Died: 02/26/2017
Diocese: Diocese of Cleveland OH

Named in 2002 among 12 Cleveland priests no longer in active ministry due to past allegations of abuse of minors. McCool left the priesthood in the early 1990s and went on to marry. Died 2/26/2017. Included on the diocese's list of credibly accused.

Assignments:

BA.org Assignment Record

Sources:

Br. Howard J. McDonough

Order: SJ
Status: Accused

Diocese: Diocese of Cleveland OH

According to a 2002 news report, McDonough was sued in 1993 for allegedly sexually abusing a 14-year-old student 20 years prior. Documents produced during the case show that McDonough had been accused of sexual abuse by others at the time and that school officials were going to quietly transfer him. Suit dismissed in 1995 due to the statute of limitations. Per a 1993 article, McDonough was no longer a member of the Order. Included on the Jesuits Midwest Province list 12/17/2018. It notes a single allegation of abuse, occurring in 1973 while assigned to Walsh Jesuit High School in Cuyahoga Falls. Dismissed from the Order in 1975.

Assignments:

Jesuits Midwest Province Assignment Record 12.21.18

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Fr. James McGonegal

Ordained: 1971
Status: Accused

Diocese: Diocese of Cleveland OH

Named publicly as credibly accused of child sexual abuse by the diocese on its list 6/21/2019. Noted to be on administrative leave pending the Vatican's decision regarding laicization. Per the list in 2022, McGonegal was laicized. In 2014 McGonegal pleaded guilty to soliciting sex from a Cleveland park ranger - a felony because he was HIV positive. In a plea agreement he was to participate in a yearlong intervention program and to serve 50 hours of community service. He was also ordered to stay out of Cleveland's Metroparks.

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Fr. J. Brendan McNulty

Donate Photo

Ordained: 1974
Status: Accused

Diocese: Diocese of Cleveland OH

Placed on leave in 2003 after allegations that he sexually abused "several" of the seven brothers in a family that had befriended him shortly after his ordination. Review board deemed the allegations credible. McNulty wrote a letter of apology in 1982 to one of the brothers, and mentioned that the older brothers had been hurt as much. Abuse covered about 10 years. Laicization announced in 11/2007. Name included on the diocese's list of credibly accused.

Assignments:

BA.org Assignment Record

Sources:

Fr. Robert D. McWilliams

Ordained: 2017
Status: Convicted

Died: 02/4/2022
Diocese: Diocese of Cleveland OH

Working at St. Joseph's Parish and Sts. Joseph and John School in Strongsville when arrested 12/5/2019, charged with sending and receiving child pornography. Placed on administrative leave. Posed as a teen girl to get teen boys to send him nude photos. Investigators discovered in McWilliams' possession "substantial" amounts of pornographic photos and videos of children. Pleaded not guilty 1/22/2020. New charges in 2/2020 included sex trafficking of a minor. Prosecutors said he paid a 15-year-old boy for sex on several occasions. Indicted 7/2/2020 on federal charges of child porn and exploitation of children. Pleaded guilty in 7/2021. Knew some of his victims from his assigned parishes. Sentenced in 11/2021 to life in prison. On 12/21/2021 the Diocese announced that the Vatican had laicized McWilliams. He died 2/4/2022 of suspected suicide at the Allenwood federal prison in PA. A 19-year-old man filed suit in 3/2022 against the Diocese, claiming McWilliams abused him for two years, from age 14. Name included on the Diocese's list of credibly accused.

Fr. Nicholas Francis Monaghan

Ordained: 1907
Status: Accused

Died: 09/28/1967
Diocese: Diocese of Cleveland OH

Monsignor. Pastor of St. Charles Borromeo in Parma 1923-1967. Died in 1967 at age 85. A woman approached the Ft. Worth, TX diocese for help in early 2008, claiming that Monaghan had groped and kissed her as a girl at the rectory where she worked after school and on Saturdays. Ft. Worth helped her with therapy until she could approach Cleveland in 6/2008. At least six other women then came forward with same allegations. Diocese removed plaque and his name from church building 6/15/2011. On the Cleveland diocese's list 6/21/2019.

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Fr. John J. Mueller

Ordained: 1959
Status: Accused

Diocese: Diocese of Cleveland OH

Placed on leave in 7/2002 due to allegations that he sexually abused a 16-year-old girl in 1962. Mueller denied allegation and was allowed to retire 3/2003. Review Board said that evidence showed Mueller engaged in conduct defined as sexual abuse of a minor, but could not be removed from the priesthood because, at the time of the abuse, 16 was recognized as adult under church law. Mueller also allegedly abused a woman in 1977. Deceased, per the diocese's list in 6/2019.

Assignments:

BA.org Assignment Record

Sources:

Fr. Frederick James Mulica

Ordained: 1967
Status: Settled

Diocese: Diocese of Cleveland OH

Accused of molesting a 14-year-old altar boy in 1981. Diocese settled with family for $45K, on condition that Mulica not be allowed to work near children. Sent to alcohol treatment center, then reassigned in 1983 to a parish with a school. Reassigned to non-parish work in 1987 after newspaper investigation and charges against other priests. Given disability leave in 1989. Reportedly left the priesthood in 1991, yet placed on administrative leave in 2002 due to the allegations against him. Mulica's victim and family sued the diocese in 2003 for defamation. Settled for possibly $500K in 2006. Per diocese's list in 6/2019, Mulican is deceased.

Assignments:

BA.org Assignment Record

Sources:

Fr. Anthony J. Muzic

Ordained: 1963
Status: Sued

Died: 03/29/2010
Diocese: Diocese of Cleveland OH

Accused in a 1993 civil suit of providing liquor to plaintiff and other youths and taking advantage of their drunken state to abuse them. Took leave when suit filed. Per a 4/2002 article, the Diocese did not include Muzic's name on its list of accused clerics because officials did not believe the allegations against him were credible. Plaintiff dropped the suit because of the statute of limitations issues. Muzic retired. Died 3/29/2010.

Assignments:

BA.org Assignment Record

Sources:

Fr. Daniel J. Nealon

Donate Photo

Ordained: 1981
Status: Accused

Diocese: Diocese of Cleveland OH

Name released in 4/2002 as a priest no longer in active ministry because of allegations in the past of abuse of minors. He had been accused of abusing a deaf boy of about age 13 in the late 1980s. Nealon denied the allegation at the time and said that he had been exonerated after an investigation. He was absent on leave 1992-1995. Left the priesthood, married, became a lawyer.

Assignments:

BA.org Assignment Record

Sources:

Fr. Patrick J. O’Connor

Ordained: 1985
Status: Convicted

Diocese: Diocese of Cleveland OH

Removed in 9/2003 after the Diocese's review board found credible a recent claim that O'Connor had sexually abused a child in the late 1980s at St. Joseph's in Cuyahoga Falls (first assignment after ordination). He denied the allegation. Teaching at Borromeo Seminary in 2003. Cleared by the Vatican and returned to active status in 9/2007 with restrictions. "Resigned from priesthood" in 6/2008 after allegations of abuse of a 15-year-old boy in 1997. Indicted in 8/2009. Pleaded guilty in 9/2009. Sentenced to 90 days in jail in 12/2009. Sued by accuser in 7/2011. Laicized, per the diocese's list in 6/2019.

Fr. Thomas J. Powers

Order: SJ
Ordained: 1972
Status: Accused

Died: 05/31/2019
Diocese: Diocese of Cleveland OH

Educator. Army chaplain. Named publicly as accused by the Province on its list 12/17/2018. Multiple allegations of abuse, occurring in the 1970s at St. Ignatius High School in Cleveland, in 1973-1978 while at John Carroll University, in 1985-1986 at Walsh Jesuit High School in Cuyahoga Falls, and in 2000 while at the Colombiere Center in Clarkston, MI. Powers was dismissed 7/6/2001. He died 5/31/2019 at age 74. Included in the 5/23/2023 IL Attorney General's Report, which notes at least four "reported survivors."

Assignments:

Jesuits Midwest Province Assignment Record 12.21.18

Sources:

Fr. Anthony Rebol

Ordained: 1956
Status: Accused

Died: 11/7/2017
Diocese: Diocese of Cleveland OH

Retired in 1998. Evaluated and treated after an allegation in 1992 of abuse in 1963. Returned to ministry. Placed on leave along with nine other priests in 4/2002 due to allegations, pending further review of their cases. Died in 2017. Included on the diocese's list of credibly accused.

Assignments:

BA.org Assignment Record

Sources:

Fr. John Rebovich

Order: OSJ
Ordained: 1967
Status: Settled

Diocese: Diocese of Cleveland OH

Assigned in the Dioceses of Scranton and Harrisburg PA. First allegation in 1975 involved soliciting an altar boy for oral sex. The boy told officials of the Byzantine Catholic Diocese of Passaic in 1978 but nothing was done. A few months later Rebovich transferred to the Byzantine Catholic diocese of Parma. A 1990 civil suit (settled in 1991) alleges Rebovich raped an altar boy in 1980 in the Parma diocese. The suit also alleges church officials covered up the incident when notified in 1984. In 1992 three more plaintiffs filed suit. On leave beginning in 1990. On the Harrisburg diocese's list released 8/1/2018, accused of sexually abusing a child. Worked in the diocese in the early 1970s. Deceased. Added to the Scranton diocese's list 12/2018.

Assignments:

BA.org Assignment Record

Sources:

Fr. Joseph A. Romansky

Ordained: 1975
Status: Convicted

Died: 07/3/2004
Diocese: Diocese of Cleveland OH

Arrested in 1985, accused of playing strip poker with boys, offering them money for oral sex, fondling them, and masturbating in front of them. The mother of one of them said the diocese gave her a condo, a car and a job, and that when she refused to sign an agreement not to sue, they fired her and took everything away. Romansky pleaded guilty. Received a probated sentence; sent to St. Luke Institute for treatment. Invited in 1988 by Biloxi MS Bishop Howze to work in a parish; Howze was aware of his abuse history. Howze sent him back to Cleveland after four years. At least two civil suits filed; settled in 1991. Was a nursing home chaplain until 2002 when placed on leave. Three more suits filed in 9/2002. Said to have likely abused dozens of teenage African American boys and girls 1975-1995. Two priests said in 2002 that they had reported him to the Cleveland diocese in 1975. Died 7/3/2004. Included on the diocese's list of credibly accused.

Assignments:

BA.org Assignment Record

Sources:

Fr. Donald Rooney

Ordained: 1979
Status: Sued

Died: 04/4/2002
Diocese: Diocese of Cleveland OH

Died by suicide in 4/2002 after being asked to come to diocesan offices to discuss an allegation that he had sexually molested a girl in 1980. Four more women and the father of another came forward with similar charges. One woman filed a class action suit in 6/2002 alleging that Rooney abused her and about twenty of her female classmates after the 1984-1985 school year. Another woman filed suit alleging that Rooney had groped and kissed her. Court denied the suits and Court of Appeals agreed. Rooney's name is included on the diocese's list of credibly accused.

Assignments:

BA.org Assignment Record

Sources:

Fr. Robert Ruglovsky

Donate Photo

Ordained: 1961
Status: Convicted

Diocese: Diocese of Cleveland OH

Byzantine Rite Catholic. Accused of molesting at least seven boys. First abuse occurred in Ohio and Michigan. Moved to Minnesota where he abused six other boys. Criminal charges were filed in Minnesota in 1987. Sentenced to 15 years probation and 1 year in jail, with participation in a sex offender program. One civil suit was filed in 1994 in California. Two other suits filed in Minnesota in 1988. Per a 1990 news report, Ruglovsky admitted to molesting numerous boys over a 20-year period. Name first appeared on the Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis list of accused priests 5/22/2014. He died in 2006.

Assignments:

Sources:

Fr. Edward F. Rupp

Ordained: 1960
Status: Sued

Died: 03/29/2019
Diocese: Diocese of Cleveland OH

In a 1994 civil suit, a man claimed Rupp abused him several times as a teenager in the late 1960s-early 1970s, and that Rupp was an alcoholic who had committed sexual improprieties with other parishioners. Rupp had received counseling for alcoholism. He resigned from his assignment and was sent for evaluation and counseling after the allegation. The suit was dismissed by a court in 1998. The Vatican ordered permanent removal from active ministry as of 6/14/2007, and sentenced him to a life of prayer and penance. Died in 3/2019. In 2020 another man came forward, alleging Rupp sexually abused him beginning when he was a 13-year-old altar boy at St. Ignatius of Antioch in the late 1970s. Rupp's accuser said he told another priest about the abuse, who told him not to tell anyone.

Assignments:

BA.org Assignment Record

Sources:

Fr. Anthony Schuerger

Ordained: 1977
Status: Reinstated

Diocese: Diocese of Cleveland OH

Pastor of St. Malachi 1994-2019. Named publicly as accused by the diocese on its list 6/21/2019. Noted to be on administrative leave pending further investigation by the Review Board of the allegation against him. Schuerger's accuser stated publicly in 5/2021 that Schuerger abused her at St. Raphael's in Bay Village in 1990 when she was age 8. She said he would take her to his office, where he touched her inappropriately, and that she thinks he also abused other children. She first came forward in 10/2018. In 1/2024 the Diocese announced that after investigations by the Diocesan Review Board and civil authorities, Schuerger was to be granted use of his priestly faculties and was awaiting a new assignment. On 10/16/2024 the Diocese announced that Schuerger was granted permission to reside at Holy Name Parish, effective 10/1/2024. His status remained "awaiting assignment."

Assignments:

Sources:

Seminarian Paul F. Rodgers

Order: SJ
Status: Accused

Diocese: Diocese of Cleveland OH

Named publicly as the subject of multiple allegations by the Jesuits Midwest Province in 1/2022. Entered the Jesuits in 1974. Allegedly sexually abused minors 1979-1981 while assigned to St. Ignatius High School in Cleveland, OH. Dismissed from the order 6/13/1982.

Assignments:

Jesuits Midwest Province Assignment Record

Sources:

Fr. Joseph J. Seminatore

Ordained: 1969
Status: Faculties removed

Diocese: Diocese of Cleveland OH

Placed on leave in 2002 from Parmadale Family Services home after a man alleged sexual abuse there as a minor. Parmadale offered treatment to children with emotional problems. Seminatore denied the allegations. Three accusers filed suit in 07/2002. In 8/2002 Seminatore filed a countersuit, alleging conspiracy. Plaintiffs' case dismissed due to the statute of limitations; dismissal upheld by Appeals Court in 2006. Seminatore's claim dismissed by trial court; upheld by Appeals Court in 12/2004. In 10/2015 the diocese announced Seminatore's administrative leave had ended, and he was granted retirement. This was after a tribunal of three canonists determined the charges were not confirmed. Included on the diocese's list 6/21/2019 of clergy with substantiated allegations against them of child sexual abuse. Permanently removed from ministry.

Assignments:

BA.org Assignment Record

Sources:

Fr. Julius Slapsak

Ordained: 1925
Status: Accused

Died: 06/2/1985
Diocese: Diocese of Cleveland OH

Named publicly as accused by the Diocese on its list 6/21/2019. Died in 1985.

Sources:

Diocese of Cleveland List 06.21.19

Fr. Ronald B. Tomicky

Donate Photo

Ordained: 1975
Status: Accused

Died: 02/12/2020
Diocese: Diocese of Cleveland OH

Reportedly in 4/2002, Tomicky was not in active ministry because of allegations in the past of the abuse of minors. Worked in parishes in Akron, Strongsville and Cleveland. Per the Official Catholic Directory, he was absent on leave 1984-1987 and 1988-1989. Died in 2/2020. His obituary states that in 1980 he became an Air Force chaplain; the Directories show him as a missionary in El Salvador 1980-1983. The obituary also shows that in 3/1987 he was a Huron Road and University Hospital chaplain, then assigned as resident chaplain 7/1988 at St. John's Hospital. He retired in 1989. Noted on the diocese's list 6/21/2019 to be retired with total and permanent disability and no faculties for public ministry; ministry restricted due to an allegation which had not yet been substantiated. The main celebrant at his funeral mass was Auxiliary Bishop Roger Gries.

Assignments:

BA.org Assignment Record

Sources:

Fr. Martin Van Trieste

Order: ST
Ordained: 1945
Status: Sued

Died: 04/5/2007
Diocese: Diocese of Cleveland OH

Accused in a 6/2002 lawsuit of abusing two boys who were members of the Little Martins, a touring singing group of Hispanic boys. As of 2002, Van Trieste, 87, was in a Maryland nursing home with dementia. Three additional men joined in the suit in 9/2002. Died 4/5/2007.

Assignments:

BA.org Assignment Record

Sources:

Fr. James A. Viall

Ordained: 1954
Status: Accused

Died: 06/18/2018
Diocese: Diocese of Cleveland OH

Placed on leave 7/2002 for allegations of misconduct with minors. A former altar boy filed suit on 7/20/2002. Another adult male came forward to allege abuse as an altar boy. One of the men said he was abused in the mid-1950s; the other alleged abuse in the 1970s. As of 9/11/2002, Child Protection Services found no evidence to support abuse allegations but the Diocese continued its investigation. Retired in 2005, still without privileges. On Leave of Absence until his death 7/18/2018. Included in 6/2019 on the diocese's list of credibly accused.

Assignments:

Sources:

Fr. Jeffrey M. Weaver

Ordained: 1982
Status: Accused

Diocese: Diocese of Cleveland OH

Per news in 2012, a 1997 diocesan memo said that Weaver engaged in "sexual exploitation" of teen boys, waiting until they were 18 years old to make sexual advances toward them. He would talk to the minors about sex in the seminary he attended, admit he was gay and that he was available to them in a sexual way. A 1996 memo showed that a youth reported to the diocese that Weaver plied him with alcohol, tried to french kiss him, rubbed his legs above the knee toward his penis, and so on. Weaver admitted to "one regretful advance" toward the youth. His accuser was interviewed in 2012, saying the incident happened just after he turned 18, and that Weaver had been grooming him for sex. Weaver asked for a leave in 2002. Bishop Lennon decided in 2012 to return Weaver to ministry. As of 2018, he is last indexed in the Official Catholic Directory in 2001. In 5/2024 the diocesan website shows Weaver as "Awaiting Assignment," and spells his first name "Jeffery." He was currently celebrating the Latin Mass on weekdays at St. Elizabeth of Hungary and assisting on weekends.

Sources:

Fr. David C. Weber

Donate Photo

Ordained: 1977
Status: Accused

Diocese: Diocese of Cleveland OH

Weber, a member of Bishop Pilla's "inner circle," was placed on leave in 4/2002 because of past allegations that he sexually abused a 16-year-old boy. His name was not released on a public list until the Diocese was pressured by the press. He was one of several priests who asked a judge to block the Diocese from turning past medical records over to the prosecutor's office. Charges against Weber were investigated by a grand jury in 2002. Laicization announced 8/19/2016. Included on the diocese's list of credibly accused in 6/2019.

Assignments:

BA.org Assignment Record

Sources:

Fr. Carl C. Wernet

Ordained: 1932
Status: Sued

Died: 04/27/1980
Diocese: Diocese of Cleveland OH

In 1992 a woman came forward to allege abuse as a child by Wernet. She said father had confronted Wernet and he admitted the abuse. Diocese denied everything. She tacked up posters and seven other women came forward. The eight women filed suit in 9/2003, alleging abuse 1953-1967. Suit dismissed in 2/1997 on statute of limitations. Twenty-one more accusers, women and men, came forward. Wernet's personnel file was destroyed when he died in 1980. At least one parent had complained to the Diocese earlier. Included on the Diocese's list 6/21/2019.

Assignments:

BA.org Assignment Record

Sources:

Fr. Joseph N. Williams

Ordained: 1969
Status: Convicted

Diocese: Diocese of Cleveland OH

Left the priesthood in the late 1970s. Became an attorney. Sentenced to life in prison without parole 12/30/2008 on charges he raped an 8-year-old boy in 1992. Rape occurred at a nursing home where the boy had gone to visit family. While a priest, Williams also served as chaplain at Lorain Catholic High School. He also sexually molested a 12-year-old boy for 3 years, beginning in 1984. At trial Williams admitted to "sexual trysts" with other men and that some were with children. Lost appeal in 5/2016. On the diocese's list 6/21/2019. Noted to have been permanently removed from ministry.

Assignments:

BA.org Assignment Record

Sources:

Fr. Dennis T. Wirks

Ordained: 1969
Status: Accused

Diocese: Diocese of Cleveland OH

Wirks' name was included on a list released by the Cleveland diocese in 4/2002 of priests no longer in active ministry because of allegations in the past of abuse of minors. One of three accused priests who had been assigned to St. Josephs of Avon Lake. Laicized, per the diocese's list in 6/2019.

Assignments:

BA.org Assignment Record

Sources:

Fr. John A. Wittreich

Ordained: 1947
Status: Accused

Died: 03/22/2004
Diocese: Diocese of Cleveland OH

Named publicly as accused by the diocese on its list 6/21/2019. Died in 2004.

Sources:

Diocese of Cleveland List 06.21.19

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