Benedictine Monks – OSB - BishopAccountability.org

141 Accused in This Religious Order

Br. Joseph J. Alexander

Order: OSB
Ordained: 1973
Status: Accused

Placed on leave by the Lafayette LA diocese in 4/02 after allegation he abused a teen boy prior to ordinationin the early 1960s, while a Benedictine brother. Alexander 'acknowledged his involvement' in the incident. At the time of the abuse, Alexander was a monk at St. Maur's Priory in South Union KY and the boy was a student, apparently at St. Maur's Preparatory Seminary. Alexander had joined the Benedictine order in 1955. Ordained a Benedictine priest in 1973. Arrived in Lafayette LA diocese in 1984. Allegation reported to Lafayette in 1/19 of abuse of a minor by Alexander while at St Anthony's in Eunice, where he worked 9/88 - 4/02. Included on Owensboro diocesan list 4/12/19, which states that the St. Maur allegation was 'considered substantiated.' On Lafayette LA diocese's list in 4/19.

Assignments:

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Fr. Joseph K. Anderson

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Order: OSB
Ordained: 1954
Status: Sued

Diocese: Diocese of Las Cruces NM

Sent to the Las Cruces diocese by his Order in Wisconsin, where he had been assigned. Suit filed 7/12/2018 against the Diocese of Las Cruces NM, Paracletes and Benedictines by a man claiming Anderson and Rev. David Bentley of Holy Family in Deming NM sexually abused him hundreds of times 1994-2001 when he was an altar boy. The abuse allegedly began when the plaintiff was age 9. Anderson was relieved of his duties in 1999. He died in 5/2002.

Sources:

Deming Headlight 07.20.18

Fr. Thomas Andert

Order: OSB
Ordained: 1975
Status: Reinstated

Diocese: Diocese of Saint Cloud MN

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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Br. Antonio F. Antonucci

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Order: OSB
Status: Acquitted

Diocese: Diocese of Worcester MA

Antonucci ran a street ministry for young children. Charged in 1993 with fondling a 15-year-old boy. Acquitted by court in 5/1996. Also named in a civil suit against Fr. Albert Liberatore in Scranton, PA. The suit claimed Liberatore's victim went to Antonucci for help and that Antonucci encouraged him not to tell because it would ruin his life. In 3/2007 the court dismissed the "aiding and abetting claim" against Antonucci, which was part of the suit. Included on the Rockville Centre diocese's list in 3/2021. Abuse allegedly occurred in a private home in Port Jefferson. (Per the list, Antonucci was of the O.S.F. order; the lawsuit shows him as an O.S.B. monk.)

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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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Fr. Raymond J. Balko

Order: OSB
Ordained: 1920
Status: Accused

Died: 02/25/1985
Diocese: Diocese of Erie PA

Also know as Jules "Raymond" Balko. Named as credibly accused by the Saint Vincent Archabbey Benedictines in Latrobe PA in 8/2018. The archabbey received an allegation in 2000 that Balko sexually abused a minor in 1963 or 1964, while assigned to St. Mary's in Erie. Included in 9/2018 on the diocese's updated list of credibly accused. Balko died in 1985.

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Fr. Vincent Barsch

Order: OSB
Ordained: 1945
Status: Accused

Died: 12/28/2010
Diocese: Diocese of Sioux Falls SD

Named publicly as credibly accused by the Conception Abbey Benedictines on their list 8/5/19. Incidents allegedly occurred in South Dakota 1955-1962. Left the priesthood in 1973, married and settled in PA. Died in 2010.

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Fr. Claude Barton

Order: OSB
Ordained: 1938
Status: Accused

Died: 11/9/1979
Diocese: Diocese of Amarillo TX

Named publicly as accused by the Amarillo diocese on its list 1/31/19. Assigned in the diocese 11/58 - 9/60. Previously worked with Native Americans in mid-western states, mostly South Dakota. Died 11/9/79.

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Fr. Joseph C. Bell

Order: OSB
Ordained: 1961
Status: Accused

Diocese: Diocese of San Bernardino CA

First named publicly as accused on the San Bernardino diocese's list 10/9/18. Assigned to St. Peter and St. Paul in Alta Loma 1985-86. Died in 1/87. Per diocese, it was first aware in 1985 of allegations in the 1960s-70s. Abuse reportedly occurred in IN, KY and NY. (There was also a Wheeling WV diocesan priest, Fr. Joseph G. Bell, who died in 6/86.)

Sources:

Diocese of San Bernardino list 10.09.18

Fr. Cuthbert Bender

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Order: OSB
Ordained: 1938
Status: Accused

Died: 05/13/1968
Diocese: Diocese of Jackson MS

Named publicly as accused by the diocese on its list 3/19/19. Died in 1968. Alleged abuse in the late 1950s in the Aberdeen area reported to the diocese in 2008.

Sources:

Diocese of Jackson List 03.19.19

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.

Seminarian Rudy Blea

Order: OSB
Status: Sued

Diocese: Archdiocese of Santa Fe NM

A civil suit filed 6/10/1994 alleged abuse by Blea of at least one youth during counseling sessions 1969-1970. Included on the Santa Fe archdiocese list of accused 9/12/2017, as a Benedictine. Blea sued the archdiocese in 1994 and again in 2018, claiming he was never a member of the Benedictines, nor employed by them or in residence with them at any time during his life, nor has he ever been a brother, monk, deacon or priest in any diocese of the Catholic church. He said he did give talks at a retreat in Albuquerque that his accuser attended. Per the Sante Fe archdiocese on its list 3/8/2019, Blea was in formation for the archdiocese 1969-1976. Blea said he became a seminarian in 1974.

Assignments:

Archdiocese of Santa Fe List 03.08.19

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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. Damian G. Boeding

Order: OSB
Ordained: 1952
Status: Accused

Died: 09/29/2003
Diocese: Diocese of Des Moines IA

Named publicly as accused by the Springfield-Cape Girardeau diocese on its list updated 4/1/2019. It notes incidents 1964-1968 in IA and MN, reported in 1992 and 1994. Boeding was incardinated into the Springfield-Cape Girardeau diocese in 1970. He retired in 1988 and died 9/29/2003.

Assignments:

Diocese of Springfield-Cape Girardeau List updated 04.13.21

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Fr. Jean-Pierre Bongila

Order: OSB
Ordained: 1991
Status: Settled

Diocese: Archdiocese of San Francisco CA

Accused in a lawsuit filed in 11/2004 of sexually abusing a girl 1996-2000, starting when she was ages 16-17. Bongila was working in the Archdiocese of San Francisco during the time in question. He denied the allegations. The suit settled in 2006. The archdiocese investigated and reportedly "cleared" Bongila. In 2013 a second lawsuit reportedly was filed, claiming Bongila sexually abused a male under age 18. It was dismissed in 7/2019 because of lack of participation from the plaintiff in the case. Bongila began work in 2006 as the founding director of the International Leadership Program at the University of St. Thomas in Minneapolis MN, where he remained as of 1/2022.

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Fr. Kevin M. Bray

Order: OSB
Ordained: 1951
Status: Settled

Died: 04/14/2022
Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Died in 2000. Accused in a lawsuit in 2008. Named also in a 12/20 lawsuit of abuse of a boy, ages 13-14, in 1986-87 while a teacher at Blessed Sacrament Parish School in Elizabeth NJ. The plaintiff was a student. Settlement(s).

Assignments:

Sources:

NJ com 12.10.20

Fr. Timothy J. Brennan

Order: OSB
Ordained: 1978
Status: Convicted

Died: 12/4/2019
Diocese: Diocese of Paterson NJ

Pled guilty in 1987 to aggravated sexual contact in 1983 with 15-year-old boy at Delbarton School. Received one-year suspended sentence, sent to therapy. Settled. Allowed to continue working in NY churches for over 10 years. In Rochester NY in 2002 when placed on leave. Another complaint filed 2002. Sent to rehab center in MO for life. Accuser from Delbarton filed suit 6/12. Settled 06/05/14. Accused in 7/17 suit of abuse of altar boy, ages 11-14, student at St. Elizabeth of Hungary School, 1968-71. Per suit, Brennan sent the boy on missions to have sex with other students and report back; plied with porn; masturbated in boy's presence. Settlement 6/18 with 5 men alleging abuse at Delbarton School. Settlements also 12/18 and 2/19. Brennan admitted to abuse of about 50 boys. Active suits 2/19 from 3 men and 1 woman, claiming abuse at St. Elizabeth's. Died 12/4/19, age 79. Named in a 7/20 lawsuit filed under the NJ Child Sexual Abuse Act. Four more suits in 10/20. More in 12/20. Subject of 21 suits under the new Act by 11/21.

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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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Br. Joseph J. Charron

Order: OSB
Status: Guilty plea

Diocese: Diocese of Rockford IL

"Brother Andre." In 9/2021 a former Marmion Academy student reported to police that he had been sexually abused by Charron, who was a faculty member at the school. Charron was placed on leave. In 4/2022 he was criminally charged on eight counts of sex abuse and assault. Pleaded guilty to battery in 4/2024. Sentenced to 180 days in jail and 30 months' probation. Received credit for almost 700 days of home confinement.

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Br. Maur Anthony Burbach

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Order: OSB
Status: Sued

Diocese: Archdiocese of Santa Fe NM

Burbach was accused of sexually abusing several members of a parish beginning in the 1960s. Affiliated with Pecos Benedictine Monastery. Two civil suits were filed in 1994. His name was included on the Santa Fe archdiocese's list of accused on 9/12/2017, name spelled 'Marr.' Br. Maur Burbach's name was included on the St. Benedict Abbey of Benet Lake WI list on 1/24/2023. Noted to have made vows in 1960, abused in NM in the 1960s, to have been dismissed from religious life in 1970 and to have died in 2019. (There was a Rev. Maur Burbach, O.S.B. who was ordained in 1940 died in 1982.)

Assignments:

Archdiocese of Santa Fe List 03.08.19

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Fr. Gordian D. Burkardt

Order: OSB
Ordained: 1952
Status: Accused

Died: 04/15/1985
Diocese: Diocese of Richmond VA

Named publicly as accused by the Saint Vincent Archabbey Benedictines in Latrobe PA in 8/18. Died in 1985. An allegation was reported to the archabbey in 2006 that Burkhardt sexually abused a minor in 1961 or 1962, while he was assigned to James Barry Robinson School in Richmond VA. Included on the Richmond diocese's list 2/13/19 (name spelled Burkhardt).

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Fr. Andrew S. Campbell

Order: OSB
Ordained: 1981
Status: Settled

Diocese: Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown PA

Head of the English department at St. Vincent University when placed on leave in 2002. A woman filed suit in 5/03 alleging Campbell and two other priests abused her 16-year-old son at St. Vincent Archabbey in Latrobe 1980-82. Claims against Campbell were dismissed in 5/04, but son had filed individual suit in 2/04. Both suits settled.

Assignments:

BA.org Assignment Record

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Fr. Justin J. Capato

Order: OSB
Ordained: 1980
Status: Settled

Diocese: Diocese of Paterson NJ

Named as abuser in a civil suit filed 3/20/12 by two men who allege abuse at Delbarton School between 1977-1979. One man also alleged abuse in 1980 by Rev. Luke Travers.The father of the brothers told the school about the abuse in 2004. It was also reported to St. Mary's Abbey in 2010. Capato was working as parochial vicar at Notre Dame of Mt. Carmel Church in Cedar Knolls, NJ when the suit was announced. St. Mary's Abbey reported in 2012 that he is was under restrictions and being monitored. Settlement in 6/18 with five men alleging abuse at Delbarton School. Named in 7/20 lawsuit(s) filed under the NJ Child Sexual Abuse Act.

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Fr. Louis Charvet

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Order: OSB
Ordained: 1945
Status: Settled

Diocese: Archdiocese of Portland OR

Monk of Mount Angel Abbey in Oregon. Worked at some point in Cuernavaca, Mexico. Accused by at least 15 people, women and men, of sexually abusing them as children in the late 1950s to the early 1970s. Accused in a 2002 lawsuit of abuse of a 7-year-old girl nearly 30 years prior. Sued also by a man claiming Charvet masturbated in front of him and used sexually explicit language when the man was age 14 in 1958. By 2006 the archdiocese had settled 13 cases. Charvet was recalled to the Abbey when the first allegation surfaced in 2002. Died in 10/2007. One case was to go to trial 2010.

Assignments:

Schmidt v Archdiocese of Portland Decision by Oregon Court of Appeals 6.9.10

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Fr. Geoffrey Chase

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Order: OSB
Ordained: 1959
Status: Accused

Diocese: Diocese of Providence RI

Started work at Portsmouth Abbey School in 1960. In 11/16 the school reached out to alumni regarding past sex abuse, hiring a law firm to investigate. Learned that Chase was housemaster of dorm in mid-1960s. Taught math and later computer science until 2002 when he was "sent away" to treatment and then long-term care, due to past sexual abuse of a student. He admitted to abuse of 3 others at the time in early 1970s-early 1980s. In his late 80's and ill in 8/17.

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Fr. Athanasius C. Cherry

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Order: OSB
Ordained: 1968
Status: Settled

Diocese: Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown PA

Placed on leave in 2002. A woman filed suit in 5/03 against Cherry and two other priests, the Benedictine Archabbey and the Altoona-Johnstown diocese alleging that her son had been abused by all three priests at St. Vincent Archabbey in Latrobe. Claims against Cherry and one other priest dismissed in 5/04 but son had filed individual suit in 2/04. The mother's remaining claims settled in 2/05 but the son's did not.

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Br. Thomas M. Chmura

Order: OSB
Ordained: 1982
Status: Indicted

Diocese: Archdiocese of Chicago IL

Assigned to St. Benedict's Abbey in Benet Lake, WI on IL border. Arrested in 4/2013, charged with trying to abduct a 14-year-old girl in Antioch IL, and with disorderly conduct. Police saw him stop near three other girls. He fled and they arrested him the next day. Admitted approaching several girls over previous six weeks. Arrested again 5/3/2013 after children found at Abbey. Pleaded guilty 12/5/2013 to one count of child abduction. Sentenced to six months of periodic imprisonment, plus 24 months of felony probation. Had been sent previously to St. Luke institute for treatment related to viewing internet pornography. Living in 10/2022 in MO at a facility for troubled clergy. Included 1/24/2023 on the St. Benedict's Abbey list of credibly accused.

Fr. Velanmarukudiyil Christudasl

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Order: OSB
Status: Acquitted

Diocese: Diocese of Trenton NJ

Also known as Rev. V.J. Christudas. From India. Visiting priest at Church of the Visitation in Brick from 2001. Arrested 7/14/2012 and charged with criminal sexual contact of both an adult woman, her 5-year-old daughter, and her 13-year-old son. The woman complained to police on 7/13/2012 after the priest paid a visit to her home. Detectives found probable cause to file charges. Privileges removed by diocese. The woman filed civil suit 7/3/2014 on behalf of herself and her two children. Acquitted at criminal trial in 10/2014 of child molestation, found guilty of groping the woman. Sentenced to two years probation.

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Fr. Meinrad Richard Chung

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Order: OSB
Ordained: 1982
Status: Sued

Died: 03/20/1992
Diocese: Diocese of Pueblo CO

From Hawaii. Had aught religion at St. Mary's High School in Colorado Springs for four years when accused of "inappropriate touching" of a male student in 1992. Chung died by suicide 3/20/92, a day after he was informed that the diocese was investigating the allegation. Named in a 2004 civil suit by a man who alleged Chung abused him when he was a 14-year- old student in 1982 at Holy Cross Abbey, a boarding school in Canon City, CO.

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Fr. Emanuel W. Clark

Order: OSB
Ordained: 1961
Status: Sued

Diocese: Archdiocese of Portland OR

Accused in 11/02 civil suit of abuse of a male student at Mount Angel Abbey Seminary High School in 1975 after the youth sought counseling from Clark. Died 1992. Second suit filed 12/10 against Mount Angel Abbey by an active priest who alleged that Clark molested him in 1970s at Mt. Angel Preparatory, when he was between the ages of 14 and 17.

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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. Gerald Dezurick

Order: OSB
Status: Settled

Diocese: Archdiocese of Portland OR

Sued in 2005. Plaintiff alleged that Dezurick molested him in about 1960 at Tillamook Catholic High School when he was 16. Suit also alleged that Dezurick then lied to the boy's parents and persuaded them to commit him to a mental institution to cure homosexuality. Another man came forward to allege abuse in 1957. Total of four known accusers.Settlement with the Abbey in 2003. Dezurick died in 1986. Also worked in the Spokane diocese for several years in the late 1970s.

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Br. Rene Dorsey

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Order: OSB
Status: Sued

Diocese: Diocese of Lafayette LA

Accused in a 1995 lawsuit, along with Rev. Gregory Mosca, of molesting an altar boy, ages of 10-15, in the late 1970s. Diocese sent alleged victim to MN for treatment and also for other psychological services. Paid about $49,500 total for counseling.

Documents:

Niel vs. Mosca et al.; Parish of Calcasiue, LA, Docket # 95-5905

Fr. Alvin T. Downey

Order: OSB
Ordained: 1970
Status: Settled

Died: 06/13/2010
Diocese: Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown PA

In 2002 the Latrobe PA St. Vincent Archabbey Benedictines received an allegation that Downey sexually abused a minor in 1981, while assigned to St. John the Evangelist in Bellefonte. A woman filed suit in 2003 alleging that Downey and two other priests sexually abused her son in 1980-81 when he was 16. She alleged that the knowledge put her in counseling and her son in the hospital. Court ordered that the woman's suit against the two other priests be dismissed. Her son filed a separate suit in 2/04 against the same defendants. Both settled in 2/05. Included in 8/18 on the St. Vincent Archabbey's list of credibly accused. Downey died in 2010.

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Fr. Jerome Ducote

Order: OSB
Ordained: 1954
Status: Accused

Died: 08/28/2006
Diocese: Archdiocese of New Orleans LA

First named publicly as accused on the New Orleans archdiocese's list 11/2/18. Allegation received 2002 of abuse in the early 1960s. Ducote died in 2006. Included on the St. Joseph Abbey Benedictines list in 11/18. It notes that Ducote left the monastery in 1969 and was dispensed from the priesthood in 1970.

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Fr. Denis Patrick Duffy

Order: OSB
Ordained: 1969
Status: Sued

Died: 12/30/2008
Diocese: Diocese of Paterson NJ

"Manus." Accused in a 5/21 lawsuit, along with Rev. Bruno Ugliano and Bro. Jonathan Michael Hunt, of sexually abusing a Delbarton School student, ages 13-14, over 150 times 1977-78. Duffy would allegedly follow the boy into the bathroom then molest him, and sodomized him on an overnight class trip to the Jersey Shore. The priest allegedly told the boy "This is how God wants me to show you love." Teacher, among other roles, including assistant headmaster, at Delbarton 1967-87. Left the priesthood and married in 1989. Died 12/30/08.

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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. Justin Joseph Faler

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Order: OSB
Ordained: 1945
Status: Accused

Died: 04/11/1979
Diocese: Archdiocese of New Orleans LA

First named publicly as accused on the New Orleans archdiocese's list 11/2/18. Allegation received 2002 of abuse in the late 1950s. Died in 1979. Included on the St Joseph Abbey Benedictines list also in 11/18. It notes that he was alleged to have abused two minors in the late 1950s, reported in 2002 and 2006.

Assignments:

Archdiocese of New Orleans list 11.02.18

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Fr. Father Frank

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Order: OSB
Status: Sued

Diocese: Diocese of Bismarck ND

A man filed suit in 12/09 in federal court alleging that "Father Frank," a priest assigned to St. Joseph Church and School in Mandan, ND, abused and raped him on multiple occasions between 1955-1957, when he was an altar boy.

Sources:

KFGO 12.13.09

Fr. Gerald Faue

Order: OSB
Ordained: 1951
Status: Sued

Died: 01/30/1988
Diocese: Archdiocese of Los Angeles CA

Also known as Fr. Mathias. Accused of abuse in 1965-67 at St. Benedict in Montebello CA. Named in at least two civil suits. Died 1/30/88. Some of his personnel files released in 7/13 reference "his problem" or "difficulty." Buried at Saint Gregory Abbey Cemetery in Shawnee, OK. Included on the Archiocese of Oklahoma's list in 10/19 of those credibly accused of abuse of a minor in the archdiocese.

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Fr. Leonard L. Feeney

Order: OSB
Ordained: 1936
Status: Sued

Died: 01/25/1980
Diocese: Archdiocese of Seattle WA

A civil suit filed in 1/2008 alleged Feeney abused a boy in the 1950s at St. Martin's High School in Lacey. The abuse allegedly lasted two years when the boy was in 9th and 10th grades. The same plaintiff also alleged abuse by two Christian Brothers at Briscoe School in Kent when he was in 7th grade. A second suit filed 5/28/2008 by three more plaintiffs alleged abuse by Feeney in the mid-late 1950s. Feeney died in 1980. Name included on Archdiocese of Seattle's list 1/15/2016 of clergy and religious with admitted, established or credible allegations against them of sexual abuse of a minor.

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Fr. Terence Fitzmaurice

Order: OSB
Ordained: 1963
Status: Settled

Diocese: Archdiocese of Chicago IL

Multiple allegations of abuse of boys and girls. Accused of molesting at least 15 boys in the early 1970s. Three settled with the order and the Chicago archdiocese in 2006. In 2007 negotiations continued with other claimants. Many were participants in a job-training program run by the city of Chicago where Fitzmaurice was a supervisor. As many as 75 other claimants. Allegedly raped a girl, age 14, in 1978 who gave birth in 1979. One woman alleged abuse over a 6-year period. A suit filed 1/07 alleged abuse in Superior diocese. Other plaintiffs added 5/07. Original plaintiff settled 10/07. Died in 2009.

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Br. Malachy Flavin

Order: OSB
Status: Sued

Diocese: Diocese of Paterson NJ

Accused of abuse of a teenage boy in 1981. Alleged victim told the Benedictines in 1992 and said the Order knew of another victim. Per Order, Flavin left active status in 1987 after he was found drinking with another boy. When Flavin would not voluntarily leave the Order, in 2003 it asked the Vatican for laicization. Named in lawsuit(s) filed in 7/20 under the NJ Child Sexual Abuse Victims Act.

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Fr. John C. Forrester

Order: OSB
Ordained: 1954
Status: Settled

Diocese: Diocese of Davenport IA

"Fidelis." Included on the on the Davenport diocese's in 7/2008 list of credibly accused, noting allegations against him involving three minor males beginning in 1955. Several 2002 and 2003 suits in Seattle claimed Forrester abused boys in the mid-1970s on church outings and overnight trips. Worked in the Seattle archdiocese from 1971 until he was removed in 1979. Died in 2002. Seven plaintiffs participated in a $2.6M settlement in 2005 involving St. Benedict's Abbey, Kansas City KS archdiocese. Settlement in 11/2006 of Seattle claims. New suit in 12/2010. Name included on the Seattle archdiocese's list 1/15/2016. Another settlement announced by Seattle archdiocese 11/2018. Settlement of a case in 6/2019 for $225K with the Seattle archdiocese, St. Benedict Abbey and the American Cassinese Congregation. Claim settled by the Seattle archdiocese in 7/2023.

Fr. Donal Fox

Order: OSB
Ordained: 1966
Status: Sued

Diocese: Diocese of Paterson NJ

Named in five 2015 lawsuits vs Delbarton School (prep school for boys grades 7-12), St. Mary's Abbey and The Order of St. Benedict among 5 priests who allegedly sexually abused Delbarton students 1972-84. Per St. Mary's Abbey the complaints "are not new." In 2012 the plaintiffs' attorney filed one lawsuit putting all claimants in multi-plaintiff complaint. It was dismissed. Named in 7/20 lawsuit(s) filed under the NJ Child Sexual Abuse Act. Reportedly in 7/20 "believed to be dead." New suit in 12/20.

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Fr. Maurus McBarron

Order: OSB
Ordained: 1934
Status: Settled

Died: 09/1/1987
Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

A/k/a Joseph. Named publicly as accused in 4/22 by Attorney Mitchell Garabedian. Accused in a lawsuit that settled of sexually abusing a girl, ages 13-14, in 1977-79. McBarron was assigned to St. Mary's in Newark NJ during the time in question. He died in 1987.

Assignments:

Garabedian Law Assignment Record

Sources:

Fr. Clement Frank

Donate Photo

Order: OSB
Ordained: 1934
Status: Sued

Diocese: Archdiocese of Portland OR

A man filed suit in 4/02 alleging that Frank raped him at age 7 in the basement of St. Mary's in Mount Angel in the 1950s. Frank was later principal of Mount Angel Seminary Prep School. He died in 1996 at age 89. In 3/08, the Oregon Court of Appeals upheld dismissal of suit against the Archdiocese. Litigation was still pending in 11/08.

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Fr. Jonathan W. Franklin

Order: OSB
Ordained: 1956
Status: Charged

Died: 08/1/1986
Diocese: Archdiocese of New Orleans LA

Ordained for Savannah diocese. Multiple allegations of abuse over three decades. Worked in New Orleans and Alexandria LA, Savannah and Atlanta GA, Pensacola FL, Cullman AL. On New Orleans archdiocese's list 11/2/18. It noted allegation received in 1959 of recent abuse; removed from ministry in the archdiocese. Accused of abuse in LA in 1966; settlement in 2005. Moved to St. Bernard Abbey in Cullman, AL in 1975. Accused of sexually assaulting a 12-year-old boy in 1985 when temporarily assigned to St. Anne's in Pensacola, FL. Franklin died by suicide 8/1/86, just before trial was to begin. On Birmingham AL diocese's list 12/14/18. On Alexandria, LA list 2/6/19. On Baton Rouge diocese's list in early 2019. On Pensacola-Tallahassee list of credibly accused.

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Fr. Nicholas Fuhrmann

Order: OSB
Ordained: 1954
Status: Sued

Diocese: Diocese of Little Rock AR

Long-time Engilsh teacher at Subiaco Academy, and boxing coach. Suit filed 1994 alleging abuse at Subiaco 1978-79. Dismissed by Court on SOL. Another complaint filed 2002 alleging abuse 1976-79. Same person sued 2005 after receiving no response from diocese. Dismissed 5/05 on SOL. Worked in Fort Worth TX diocese 1981-93. Permanently removed from active ministry 2002. Working in 2005 at Subiaco Abbey farm. Included on Diocese of Little Rock list 9/10/18. Eight known victims. Died 8/20/19.

Assignments:

Diocese of Little Rock list 09.10.18

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Fr. Frederick George

Donate Photo

Order: OSB
Ordained: 1975
Status: Accused

Diocese: Diocese of Richmond VA

Named publicly as accused by the Richmond diocese on its list 2/13/2019. Allegation in 1987 that George sexually abused a boy in the late 1970s at a Richmond parish. Briefly reassigned by the bishop, left ministry for a few years in 1988. Worked in the Diocese of Savannah 1990-1991, then returned to Belmont Abbey in NC. Worked as a hospital chaplain 1992-1994, then as chaplain at Belmont Abbey College 1994-1997. Left the priesthood in 1998. Reportedly "permanently dismissed from ministry" in 2004. Included in 12/2019 on the Diocese of Charlotte's list of credibly accused. Included in the 3/24/2023 GA PAC Report.

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Fr. Joseph U. Gerg

Order: OSB
Ordained: 1965
Status: Accused

Diocese: Archdiocese of Baltimore MD

In 1997 the Baltimore archdiocese received an allegation that Gerg sexually abused a minor in the late 1960s to early 1970s, while assigned to St. Benedict's in Baltimore. Removed from active ministry in 2002, after the U.S. Bishops' Dallas Charter. Included on Baltimore's list of accused priests in 9/2002. Included in 8/2018 on the St. Vincent Archabbey of Latrobe PA Benedictines' list of credibly accused. Included in the 4/5/2023 MD Attorney General's Report. It shows that Gerg's victim was a girl, and the abuse took place 1967-1972, when the girl was ages 13-17. She said she reported the abuse at the time to later known perpetrator priests Neil Magnus and Joseph Maskell.

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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.

Assignments:

Assignment Record from Archdiocese of St Paul

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Fr. Theophane Gonnelly

Order: OSB
Ordained: 1947
Status: Accused

Died: 01/26/2005
Diocese: Diocese of Fargo ND

Named publicly as accused by the Fargo diocese on its list 1/2/20. Allegations substantiated. Died 1/26/05. Per his obituary, was assigned in 1952 to Indian missions St. Michael's and St. Ann's. Musician, seminary teacher. Magician, performed for youth at summer camp and missions. Chief Judge and Director the Marriage Tribunal for the Sioux Falls diocese beginning 1979. Recalled to Blue Cloud Abbey in 1988. For several years prior to his death lived with the Servants of the Paraclete in Jemez Springs, NM, then with same order in St. Louis.

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Fr. Bede Gorman

Donate Photo

Order: OSB
Ordained: 1944
Status: Accused

Died: 05/8/1985
Diocese: Diocese of Providence RI

"Fr. Bede." Spent entire career at Portsmouth Abbey School as teacher, coach, athletic director, Housemaster of a dorm called "The Barn." Died in 1985. In 11/16 the school reached out to alumni regarding past sex abuse, hiring a law firm to investigate. Four allegations deemed credible surfaced of abuse of students during the 1950s until 1972, when the school no longer had boarders. One former student had come forward in 1993 re early 1960s abuse; an Abbot Matthew revealed he'd received a complaint from a parent in the early 1970s re Fr. Bede's behavior with her son, which Fr. Bede acknowledged. Gorman also said to have disciplined students with "bare-bottomed spanking." Abbott Matthew said he'd heard early in his career that Fr. Bede "did things with boys."

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Fr. Mark F. X. Gruber

Order: OSB
Ordained: 1982
Status: Accused

Diocese: Diocese of Greensburg PA

Professor at St. Vincent College, Latrobe; removed 8/09 after pornography was found on his work computer. Disagreement as to whether it was child porn or homosexual male porn. A student confessed that he did the downloading. Gruber sued college 9/10 for defamation; dropped suit 11/10. In 8/12 Vatican permanently banned him from ministry and ordered him to live in monastery. Abuse of confession/ defamation of superior at issue. Laicization announced 7/13 when he failed to move to monastery. Was to appeal to Vatican.

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Fr. Patrick Hannon

Order: OSB
Ordained: 1942
Status: Accused

Died: 12/27/1994
Diocese: Diocese of Little Rock AR

Named publicly as accused by the Subiaco Abbey Benedictines on its list 1/24/20. It notes one allegation of abuse, occurring in the early 1950s at St. Benedict's in Subiaco. May have transferred to the Diocese of Columbus, and died 12/27/94. Included on the Diocese of Little Rock's list.

Assignments:

Subiaco Abbey Assignment Record

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Br. Joseph Heeney

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Order: OSB
Status: Sued

Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Named publicly in 11/21 by Attorney Jeff Anderson as accused in a lawsuit filed under the NJ Victims’ Rights Bill.

Sources:

Jeff Anderson and Associates 11.18.21

Fr. Victor J. Heinen

Donate Photo

Order: OSB
Ordained: 1936
Status: Accused

Died: 06/24/1953
Diocese: Diocese of Bismarck ND

Named publicly as accused by the Bismarck diocese on its list 1/2/20. Allegations reported after his death. Substantiated. Died 6/24/53. Added to the Conception Abbey Benedictines list in 4/20.

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Fr. Warren Heitz

Donate Photo

Order: OSB
Ordained: 1966
Status: Accused

Diocese: Diocese of Evansville IN

Named publicly as accused by the diocese on its list 2/22/19. It notes two credible allegations. Removed from ministry by the Benedictines' St. Meinrad Archabbey in 2002, after St. Meinrad's review board deemed the allegations credible.

Assignments:

Diocese of Evansville List 02.22.19

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Fr. Gerald Hindman

Donate Photo

Order: OSB
Ordained: 1945
Status: Accused

Died: 04/28/1999
Diocese: Archdiocese of New Orleans LA

Named publicly as accused by the St Joseph Abbey Benedictines on its list in 11/18. It notes an allegation in 2004 of abuse of a minor in the early 1960s. Assigned to the Abbey, the Metropolitan Tribunal of New Orleans, and chaplain at St. Paul's High School. Hindman died 4/28/99.

Sources:

St Joseph Abbey Benedictines List November 2018

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. (Othmar) Hohmann

Order: OSB
Ordained: 1931
Status: Accused

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

Worked in the Bahamas, ND, UT, CO, MN. Name included on a list released by St. John's Abbey 12/9/2013 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 1/24/1980. Also included in an addendum to the Duluth 12/31/2013 list. Included on St. Cloud diocese's list 1/3/2014. Accused in a suit filed 1/13/2016 of the sexual abuse of girl ages 11-16, 1961-1966, while he was St. Joseph's pastor.

Br. Jonathan Michael Hunt

Order: OSB
Status: Sued

Died: 04/29/2020
Diocese: Diocese of Paterson NJ

Accused in a 5/21 lawsuit, along with Rev. Bruno Ugliano and Rev. Manus Duffy, of sexually abusing a Delbarton School student, ages 13-14, 1977-78. His accuser said Hunt followed him to the bathroom and touched him under the guise of showing him how to "properly urinate." Died 4/29/20.

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Fr. Patrick M. Hurley

Donate Photo

Order: OSB
Ordained: 1976
Status: Accused

Diocese: Archdiocese of Anchorage-Juneau AK

Named among seven clerics by the diocese in 8/19 as having allegations of sexual misconduct against them involving minors or vulnerable adults. Allegedly involved in sexual misconduct with minors 1984-85. Assigned to the diocese 1983 until returning to his order in 1985. Assigned to St. Elizabeth parish in Linden, NJ when arrested in 11/91, charged with buying cocaine. Sent to the midwest for treatment. Returned to ministry.

Assignments:

Diocese of Juneau List 08.21.19

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Fr. Kenneth Jacques

Donate Photo

Order: OSB
Ordained: 1967
Status: Sued

Diocese: Archdiocese of Portland OR

Also known as Robert Lawrence Jacques. A civil suit filed in 4/02 alleged Jacques abused a 16-year-old boy in 1968. Immediately placed on leave. Accused in a suit filed in 5/02 of abusing a second boy in 1968. Jacques was principal at a Mount Angel Abbey Prep School at the time of the alleged abuse. Three other men filed suit 11/02, claiming abuse in the late 1970s.

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Fr. Jose Jaime

Donate Photo

Order: OSB
Status: Sued

Diocese: Archdiocese of Portland OR

Named as abuser of one individual in a suit filed in Federal Court. Abuse allegedly occurred when Jaime was a seminarian at Mount Angel Abbey. Referred to as a former Benedictine priest.

Sources:

Table: The Oregonian 11.12.06

Fr. Augustine K. Jones

Order: OSB
Ordained: 1953
Status: Convicted

Died: 09/28/2007
Diocese: Archdiocese of Chicago IL

Convicted in 1968 of abuse of a boy. Received three years probation and treatment. More charges in 1993 of abuse in 1990. Indicted in 1993. Pleaded guilty. Sentenced to four years probation. Died 9/28/2007 at Blue Cloud Abbey in SD. On Rockford diocese's list 11/14/2018. Included on the Benedictines of Marmion Abbey list 2/24/2023, which notes abuse in 1959, 1960s and early 1990s. Included in the 5/23/2023 IL Attorney General's Report.

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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

Sources:

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. Timothy Kelly

Order: OSB
Ordained: 1961
Status: Sued

Died: 10/7/2010
Diocese: Archdiocese of New York NY

Abbot of St. John's Abbey in the St. Cloud diocese 1992 -2000. Died in 2010. A man filed suit 6/11 alleging that Kelly sexually abused him in 1966 at St. Anselm's Church in the Bronx. Abbot of St. John's issued a statement saying he had just learned of the accusations in 6/11 and was investigating. Plaintiff said he told the order in 12/10. Multiple alleged victims around the U.S.

Assignments:

BehindThePineCurtin 06.07.11

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Fr. Placidus Kieffer

Order: OSB
Ordained: 1932
Status: Accused

Died: 02/15/1990
Diocese: Diocese of Davenport IA

Accused in 2002 of sexually abusing a 16-year-old boy in 1963 at St. John's in Burlington. Also worked in the Kansas City, KS archdiocese. Died in 1990. Allegations deemed credible. Included on diocese's 7/2008 list of credibly accused. Allegedly abused two boys.

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Fr. Timothy J. Lamm

Order: OSB
Ordained: 1954
Status: Accused

Died: 07/11/2018
Diocese: Archdiocese of Seattle WA

Worked at St. Martin's Abbey/ University in Lacey 1955-1981 and 1988-1991. Taught high school in WA, the Bahamas, Los Angeles and San Diego. Name included on Seattle archdiocese's list 1/15/2016 of clergy and religious with admitted, established or credible allegations against them of sexual abuse of a minor. Given 'Permanent Prayer and Penance' status. Lamm died in 2018.

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Fr. Fidelis G. Lazar

Order: OSB
Ordained: 1963
Status: Sued

Died: 03/18/2018
Diocese: Diocese of Erie PA

Lazar's name was added 5/18/2018 to the Erie diocese's list of credibly accused priests, lay employees and volunteers. Noted to be no longer in ministry. Died 3/18/2018 in CT. Included in 8/14/2018 PA Grand Jury Report. It revealed that Pittsburgh diocese received report in 1986 from a male teen that Lazar sexually abused him in 6/1986. Sent to a diocesan treatment facility; admitted to sexual activity with children. Went on leave of absence. Withdrew from active ministry in 9/1989. Another allegation in 9/1994 of repeated abuse in the early 1980s of a male teen. In 3/2002 a man alleged abuse in the 1960s by Lazar at St. Vincent's Prep School in Latrobe. Lawsuit in 7/2020 claims abuse in 1975 of a 7-year-old. Included in 8/1208 on the St. Vincent Archabbey in Latrobe PA Benedictines' list of credibly accused. Included on the Pittburgh diocese's list of credibly accused.

Assignments:

PA Grand Jury Report Profile 08.14.18

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Fr. Germain Lieb

Order: OSB
Ordained: 1945
Status: Accused

Died: 04/30/2006
Diocese: Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown PA

Named publicly as accused by the St. Vincent Archabbey in Latrobe PA Benedictines as credibly accused. The archabbey received an allegation in 2018 that Lieb sexually abused a minotr 1975-1978, while assigned to Immaculate Conception in New Germany PA. Lieb died in 2006.

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Br. Richard Edward Lott

Order: OSB
Status: Settled

Diocese: Diocese of Paterson NJ

Accused in a 2005 civil suit of sexually abusing a student at Delbarton School in 1977, and of plying the boy with alcohol and marijuana. Settled in 2006. The Order said it learned of accusations against Lott in 2004 and reported it to police. A 3/17 lawsuit claimed sexual abuse by Lott 1/1/76 of another Delbarton student. This accuser said he told Abbot Brian Clark of his abuse over a year after it occurred, and that Clark told the boy to keep it quiet and that Lott would be "reined in." The man learned years later that a second student was abused by Lott not long after he spoke with the Abbot.

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Fr. Roger R. Lott

Order: OSB
Ordained: 1954
Status: Accused

Died: 05/22/2011
Diocese: Diocese of Nashville TN

Accused in 1996 of the sexual molestation of an altar boy in Nashville in late the 1950s. Removed by his Order in 1997 and placed in a restricted setting. The Order also facilitated a meeting between the accuser and Lott, who said he was an alcoholic and could not remember any abuse. Died 5/22/2011. Name included on the Nashville diocese's list 11/2/2018. On the Birmingham diocese's list 12/14/2018.

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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 2/1992 claiming Maiers abused him at age 9 in 1966. It settled out of court in late 1992. Maiers admitted the 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. Included on their list released 12/9/2013. Also on the Addendum to the 12/31/2013 Duluth list and St. Cloud diocese's 1/3/2014 list. St. Paul personnel file released 05/19/2014. Maiers died in 7/22.

Assignments:

Jeff Anderson & Associates Assignment History

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Fr. Manuel Perez Maramba

Order: OSB
Ordained: 1967
Status: Settled

Diocese: Diocese of El Paso TX

A man filed civil suit in 2004 in federal court in Albuquerque alleging that he was abused by Maramba 1976-77 at a parish in NM (then part of the El Paso Diocese, later part of the Las Cruces Diocese). Returned to his native Philippines in 1978; reportedly a "foremost" music composer of sacred text in the Philippines. Second suit filed 2/07 claiming abuse in the 1970s. Both settled. A third suit settled 4/1//10. A fourth suit filed 4/13/10; settled 5/11. On Diocese of Las Cruces list 11/8/18. On El Paso's list 1/31/19.

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Fr. Stanley Markiewicz

Order: OSB
Ordained: 1961
Status: Accused

Died: 10/10/2019
Diocese: Diocese of Greensburg PA

Named publicly as credibly accused in 8/18 by the St. Vincent Archabbey Benedictines in Latrobe PA. The Archabbey received multiple allegations in 2002 that Markiewicz sexually abused minors 1966-1971, while assigned to St. Vincent's Preparatory School in Latrobe. He was removed from active ministry in 2002 and died 10/10/19.

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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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Fr. Severin Messick

Order: OSB
Ordained: 1982
Status: Accused

Died: 09/28/2011
Diocese: Archdiocese of Indianapolis IN

Named publicly as credibly accused by the Diocese of Owensboro on its list in 5/22. Worked in the diocese off and on 1983-1996. Also had assignments in the Diocese of Evansville and the Archdiocese of Indianapolis. Per the Owensboro list, there was one allegation of abuse, occurring while Messick was in Indianapolis. Messick was a teacher and parish priest, and he served on the the Tribunals for the Diocese of Owensboro and the Archdiocese of Indianapolis. He died in 2011.

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Fr. Cosmas Minster

Order: OSB
Ordained: 1933
Status: Accused

Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

Named publicly as credibly accused in 8/2018 by the St. Vincent Archabbey Benedictines in Latrobe PA. The Archabbey received a report in 2002 that Minster sexually abused a child in 1942, while assigned to a weekend mission at a Mt. Pleasant parish. Minster died in 1985.

Sources:

Trib Live 08.16.18

Fr. Bede Mitchel

Order: OSB
Ordained: 1925
Status: Settled

Died: 03/7/1982
Diocese: Diocese of Fort Worth TX

Accused in 2014 of sexually abusing a girl from 1969 to 1970/1971, beginning when the child was age 8. Mitchel was assistant pastor 1969-1973 at Sacred Heart parish, Muenster TX, in the Diocese of Fort Worth. In 2014, a lawsuit was filed by the complainant's husband against the Fort Worth diocese and the Benedictine's Subiaco Abbey in the Little Rock diocese. A settlement was approved on 1/23/15. Mitchel worked as a parish priest for many years in the Little Rock and Fort Worth dioceses, after training at Subiaco Abbey. He taught at the abbey for 10 years and at Corpus Christi Academy and Laneri High School in Fort Worth TX. Mitchel also traveled extensively, leading retreats and missions. He died on 3/7/82.

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Sources:

Br. Cypriano Molelos Pina

Donate Photo

Order: OSB
Status: Accused

Diocese: Archdiocese of Milwaukee WI

Named publicly as credibly accused by the St. Benedict's Abbey Benedictines of Beney Lake WI on 1/24/23. Professed vows in 1966, left the same year. Abuse allegedly occurred in Mexico in the 1960s. (Placing him in the Milwaukee archdiocese, where the Abbey is located.)

Sources:

St. Benedict’s Abbey List 01.24.23

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. Gregory Mosca

Donate Photo

Order: OSB
Status: Sued

Diocese: Diocese of Lake Charles LA

Olivetan Benedictine. Accused in a 1995 lawsuit, along with Br. Rene Dorsey, of molesting an altar boy, ages of 10-15, in the late 1970s. On the Lake Charles diocese's list 4/11/19. Multiple accusations of abuse 1980-82, received by the diocese 1986 and 1993, occurring at St. Henry in Lake Charles and in Houston TX. Removed from ministry in 1986. Died in 2018.

Sources:

Diocese of Lake Charles List 04.11.19

Fr. Odo Muggli

Order: OSB
Ordained: 1966
Status: Accused

Diocese: Diocese of Bismarck ND

Assumption Abbey Benedictine in Richardton. Included in the ND Attorney General's report in 1/21. Allegedly abused a minor, ages 13-17, beginning in 1971. A.G. found probable cause to prosecute, but not possible due to the statute of limitations. The investigation found that the Abbey and Diocese received a report in 1991 of the allegations against Muggli. Per the Abbey, Muggli has since been on a "safety plan," working in the Abbey's business office and not in ministry.

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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. Jeremy Myers

Order: OSB
Ordained: 1984
Status: Accused

Diocese: Diocese of Dallas TX

Ordained for the Benedictines. Became Dallas diocesan priest in 1996. Removed in 2018. In 10/18 the diocese reported to police an allegation that Myers abused a student in 1986 at Subiaco Catholic School in AR, when Myers was dean of the boy's dorm. The boy was expelled the next year and sent home to Dallas. Myers continued to sexually abuse the boy at the clergy house where he worked in Dallas. The headmaster at the boy's new Catholic school was told of the 'relationship' between the priest and the boy - Myers denied it. Per detectives, Myer's personnel file showed an allegation from a different victim, and no others. On diocese's list 1/31/19. Dallas police raided diocesan headquarters in 5/19, related to the Myers case and four others.

Assignments:

Diocese of Dallas Priest Details

Sources:

Fr. Giles L. Nealen

Order: OSB
Ordained: 1951
Status: Sued

Died: 12/29/1996
Diocese: Diocese of Erie PA

Monk of St. Vincent Archabbey in Latrobe. On Erie the diocese's list 4/6/2018. Retired in 1992. Died 12/29/1996. Included in the 8/14/2018 PA Grand Jury Report, which noted Nealen's "long history of sexually abusing numerous young boys." In Brazil 1964-1967. The Order and Diocese of Greensburg in 1972 knew Nealen was "involved in an inappropriate incident" when pastor of St. Bruno in South Greensburg PA. Moved in 1972 to St. James in Waynesburg OH, Youngstown diocese. Letter to the Diocese in 1/1993 from a man alleging abuse at age 13 by Nealen 23 years prior at Queen of the World parish in St. Mary's PA. The man said Nealen also abused his two friends. In 2/2002 a woman told the Diocese she knew of at least three men molested as boys by Giles, one of whom had just been arrested for molesting young boys. Another woman alleged in 2004 that her 11-year-old son was molested 30 years prior by Nealen at Queen of the World. On the Youngstown diocese's list 10/29/2018. Suit in 8/2020 claimed abuse in 1968 of his nephew, age 11.

Assignments:

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Fr. Bede Parry

Order: OSB
Ordained: 1983
Status: Sued

Died: 11/27/2013
Diocese: Diocese of Kansas City-St. Joseph MO

A 6/2011 lawsuit alleged Parry, then a Benedictine priest and boys' choir director at Conception Abbey in northwest MO, sexually abused a boy in 1987 at summer choir camp. Parry had been affiliated with the abbey since 1973. He admitted to the Abbot in 1981 that he had been involved in three "inappropriate relationships" 1973-1979. Dismissed in 2002. Became an Episcopal priest in Las Vegas 10/15/2004. Resigned in 2011 after the suit was filed. Admitted to abuse of several. A second suit filed 7/2011. Died 11/27/2013. Included on the Las Vegas diocese's list 4/12/2019. (No known allegations there.) On the Conception Abbey Benedictines' list 8/5/2019. Included on the Santa Fe archdiocese's list 5/19/21, which notes assignments there in 1978, 1990 and 1992.

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."

Sources:

Fr. Casimir Plakut

Order: OSB
Ordained: 1938
Status: Accused

Died: 11/10/1988
Diocese: Diocese of Crookston MN

Also know as Fr. Francis J. Michael. Name (Plakut) released by St. John's Abbey in 9/17 as added to its list of those "likely to have offended against minors." Ordained for the Benedictines. Plakut worked in the dioceses of St. Cloud, Crookston, Duluth, St. Paul and Minneapolis, Nassua in the Bahamas, as chaplain in the US Army and at Harvard University. He left St. John's in 1962. Also worked in KY, NE, TX, SD and Ontario Canada. Died in 1988.

Assignments:

Anderson and Associates

Sources:

Fr. Edgar Probstfield

Order: OSB
Ordained: 1952
Status: Accused

Died: 02/11/2007
Diocese: Diocese of Springfield-Cape Girardeau MO

Named publicly as accused by the Springfield-Cape Girardeau diocese on its list updated 4/1/19. Abuse allegedly occurring in the 1970s was reported in 2014. Probstfield died 2/11/07. Included on the Conception Abbey Benedictines list 8/5/19. Given name is Victor David Probstfield. Brother of accused priest Regis Probstfield, O.S.B.

Assignments:

Diocese of Springfield-Cape Girardeau List updated 04.13.21

Sources:

Fr. Regis Probstfield

Order: OSB
Ordained: 1957
Status: Accused

Died: 11/4/2008
Diocese: Diocese of Kansas City-St. Joseph MO

Named publicly by the Conception Abbey Benedictines on their list 8/5/19. Abuse alleged to have occurred in Missouri in 1976. Reportedly worked off and on at Conception Abbey before 1981, then became pastor in Parnel. Also worked in North Dakota, returning to the Abbey in 1996. Probstfield died 11/4/08. Given name Vernon Charles Probstfield. Brother of accused priest Edgar Probstfield, O.S.B.

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Fr. Samuel D. Pusateri

Order: OSB
Ordained: 1979
Status: Guilty plea

Diocese: Diocese of Peoria IL

Pusateri worked as teacher, chaplain and counselor at St. Bede Academy near Peru, IL for 20 years. He received a 6-year jail sentence after pleading guilty in 1991 to abusing a teenage student 1989-1990. Moved the Joliet diocese as chaplain for the Franciscan sisters in Wheaton in 1995, there until 2004. Still a Benedictine and working in Rome per a 9/2010 newsletter from Most Rev. Marcel Rooney O.S.B., Abbot Primate. Moved by 2017-2018 to the Benedictine community at Sant'Anselmo. Included by 1/2020 on the Peoria diocese's list of accused. Included in the 5/23/2023 IL Attorney General's Report, which notes that he was still in active ministry in Rome in 2018.

Assignments:

IL Attorney General’s Report Assignment Record

Sources:

Fr. Edward Receconi

Order: OSB
Ordained: 1979
Status: Accused

Diocese: Archdiocese of Seattle WA

Placed on administrative leave by his superior at St. Martin's Abbey in 3/2011 after a recent allegation that he had abused a minor while assigned 1984-1986 to Sacred Heart Parish in Lacey. Most recently, he had been serving as a supply priest for the archdiocese. Spokesman for the archdiocese said this was first and only accusation against Receconi.

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Fr. Donald Redmond

Order: OSB
Ordained: 1957
Status: Accused

Died: 05/31/2019
Diocese: Diocese of Davenport IA

Placed on leave in 2/2002 after allegations that he abused at least one child in IA in the 1960s. At least three more victims from a parish in the Kansas City KS archdiocese came forward after his suspension. Complaints involved inappropriate touching of elementary school children 1961-1964. Sent to live at St. Benedict's Abbey in Atchison. Included on the Davenport diocese's list in 7/2008, which notes allegations of the sexual abuse of five male minors. On the Kansas City KS archdiocese's list 1/25/2019. It notes multiple allegations of abuse, occurring 1960-1968. Redmond died 5/31/2019.

Assignments:

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Fr. James J. Reilly

Donate Photo

Order: OSB
Ordained: 1944
Status: Accused

Died: 07/4/1990
Diocese: Diocese of Great Falls-Billings MT

Named publicly as accused by the Great Falls-Billings diocese on its list 8/21/18. On the Fargo diocese's list 1/2/20. Allegations substantiated. Died in 1990.

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Fr. Robert Renggli

Order: OSB
Ordained: 1971
Status: Sued

Diocese: Archdiocese of Seattle WA

A woman sought counseling in 1988, alleging abuse by Renggli when she was in high school; she was referred by the Seattle archdiocese to a counseling agency. In 2005 she filed suit, alleging she did not understand the relationship between the counseling agency and the archdiocese. Renggli left the priesthood, married, and went to work with a group called Rent-a-Priest. Name included on the Seattle archdiocese's list 1/15/2016 of clergy and religious with admitted, established or credible allegations against them of sexual abuse of a minor. Worked at St. Martin's Abbey in Lacey 1971-1976.

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Fr. Emmeran Rettger

Order: OSB
Ordained: 1938
Status: Accused

Died: 06/10/1999
Diocese: Diocese of Covington KY

Named publicly as accused by the St. Vincent Abbey Benedictines in 8/2018. Multiple allegations of abuse dating to his time at St. Benedict's in Covington, KY 1965-1967. Per the Archabbey, the allegations were received in 1993, and Rettger was removed from active ministry. Included on the Diocese of Covington's list 7/31/2020 of those with substantiated allegation(s). Died 6/10/1999.

Assignments:

Diocese of Covington List 07.31.20

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Fr. Jerome Rupprecht

Order: OSB
Ordained: 1921
Status: Indicted

Died: 10/14/1982
Diocese: Diocese of Erie PA

Named publicly as credibly accused in 8/18 by the St. Vincent Archabbey Benedictines in Latrobe PA. The Archabbby received an allegation in 2002 that Rupprecht sexually abused a child in the early 1970s during a field trip in Emporium PA. Rupprecht died 10/14/82.

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Br. Benet G. Salis

Donate Photo

Order: OSB
Status: Accused

Died: 07/26/1991
Diocese: Diocese of St. Petersburg FL

Named publicly as credibly accused of child sexual abuse in 8/2018 by the St. Vincent Archabbey Benedictines in Latrobe PA. The Archabbey received an allegation in 1993 that Salis abused a child 1964-1965 at St. Leo's Abbey in Florida. Salis died 7/26/1991.

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Fr. Jude S. Salus

Order: OSB
Ordained: 1975
Status: Sued

Diocese: Diocese of Paterson NJ

Accused in a lawsuit filed 11/17/21 of sexually abusing boy, age 14, in 1993-94, while assigned to Delbarton School. The boy was a Delbarton student. Salus taught religion at the school while assisting at area parishes on the weekends. He was later pastor for many years at Mt. Carmel in Cedar Knolls. In 11/21 he reportedly remained active at St. Mary's Abbey in Morristown, and as chaplain at Newton Medical Center and for the Filippini Sisters at Villa Walsh.

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Fr. Donald F. Scales

Order: OSB
Ordained: 1955
Status: Accused

Died: 12/12/2008
Diocese: Diocese of Charlotte NC

Named publicly as accused on 2/14/19 by the Diocese of Richmond after it received information from the Diocese of Charlotte. Charlotte's Review Board found credible an allegation against Scales. He had assignments in both dioceses. Accused in 2006 of sexually abusing a minor at St. Michael's in Gastonia, NC 1977-78. Removed from ministry. Denied the allegation. Died in 2008. Included on the Raleigh diocese's list updated 10/22/19, noting abuse occurring outside the diocese in 1966, reported in 2019. On the Charlotte diocese's list 12/29/19.

Assignments:

Diocese of Charlotte Assignment Record 12.29.19

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Fr. Raymond Francisco Schulte

Order: OSB
Ordained: 1979
Status: Sued

Diocese: Diocese of Raleigh NC

Per the Abbey Abuse Disclosure Project, one alleged victim made a 9/02 statement that Schulte sexually molested him 10/88. Also accused of knowing about abuse by Dunstan Moorse and John Kelly. Supposedly living a restricted lifestyle at St. John's, but traveled frequently, including to Italy. Named in new suit 5/18/10 by two brothers claiming abuse in 1984-86. Suit settled 3/11 with other claims against Abbey. New suit in Puerto Rico 4/11. Name on Abbey list 12/9/13 and St. Cloud list 1/3/14. On the Raleigh diocese's list in 10/18. It notes report in 1992 of abuse in 1985 in Raleigh diocese.

Fr. Peter Schwartz

Donate Photo

Order: OSB
Ordained: 1962
Status: Accused

Diocese: Diocese of Fargo ND

Named publicly as accused by the Fargo diocese on its list 1/2/20. Allegations substantiated. Died in 2003.

Sources:

Diocese of Fargo List 01.02.20

Fr. Francis R. Simon

Order: OSB
Ordained: 1943
Status: Accused

Died: 12/18/1995
Diocese: Archdiocese of Los Angeles CA

Accusations against Fr. Francis (Raymond E.) Simon were discovered in the personnel file of Fr. Mathias Faue released in 7/13. In 2002 a man alleged he was abused by Faue and Fr. Simon 1963-67 at St. Benedict's Church in Montebello, CA. Simon died 12/18/95.

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Sister Terrance

Donate Photo

Order: OSB
Status: Sued

Diocese: Diocese of Covington KY

In 10/2002 a former student nun filed a lawsuit alleging that she was fondled in 1959 or 1960 at St. Walburg Convent by a Sister Terrance, whose given name was unknown. In the same suit, the woman also alleges that she had been previously abused at Villa Madonna Academy (a girls' school) by another nun and that a third nun also fondled her during her first year at St. Walburg Monastery. The plaintiff left the convent in 1971.

Sources:

Br. Jerome Skaja

Brother Jerome Skaja in a 1987 Marmion Military Academy yearbook. Provided

Order: OSB
Status: Settled

Died: 01/30/2016
Diocese: Diocese of Rockford IL

In 10/2022 a man publicly stated that Skaja sexually assaulted him numerous times in the 1980s when he was a prepubescent student at Marmion Military Academy in Aurora. The man said he told the dean of students, Rev. Vincent Bataille, who told him to keep it quiet. He said he also told some classmates and that the mother of one of them allegedly confronted the abbot, Rev. David Cyr, to no avail. Skaja remained at the school. His accuser received a settlement from the Benedictines at some point. The Order was reportedly investigating allegations against Skaja as of 10/2022. Skaja died in 2016. In 2/2023 the Order admitted that Skaja was accused multiple times of molesting minors in the 1970s and 1980s, and that the allegations were "true." He was dismissed from the Order in 1988. Included on the Benedictines of Marmion Abbey list 2/24/2023. Included on the Rockford diocese's list 3/6/2023. Included in the 5/23/2023 IL Attorney General's Report, which notes 5 "reported survivors."

Sources:

Chicago Tribune Obituary 02.03.16
Chicago Sun-Times 10.15.22
Benedictines of Marmion Abbey List 02.24.23
Chicago Sun-Times 02.24.23
Diocese of Rockford List 03.06.23
IL Attorney General’s Report 05.23.23

Fr. Bernardine Solvyns

Donate Photo

Order: OSB
Status: Accused

Diocese: Diocese of Fresno CA

Ordained in Belgium. Named publicly as credibly accused by the Fresno diocese on its list in 8/21. Noted to have been pastor of Our Lady of Lourdes in California City 1969-1985.

Sources:

Diocese of Fresno List accessed 01.17.22

Fr. Jocelyn St. Arnaud

Donate Photo

Order: OSB
Ordained: 1952
Status: Sued

Died: 09/22/1992
Diocese: Archdiocese of Portland OR

Also known as Fr. Pacome St. Arnaud. Accused in 2002 by three men of sexually abusing them as minors in the 1970s. In a civil suit filed in 5/02, the plaintiff said he told other priests in 1971 that he had been abused. After that disclosure, St. Arnaud was transferred to another parish where he allegedly abused the other two plaintiffs. These men filed suits in 11/02. Also history of abuse in Canada before transfer to Portland. Another suit filed in 2005. St Arnaud died 9/22/92 (spelled St. Arnoud the 1993 Directory.)

Sources:

Fr. Gilbert Stack

Order: OSB
Ordained: 1939
Status: Accused

Died: 09/30/2007
Diocese: Diocese of Rapid City SD

Accused in 1992 of sexually abusing a 14-year-old boy in Sturgis, SD 1951/1952. Stack denied the allegations. He had been living in retirement at Conception Abbey in MO for many years. Bishop said the allegations were credible. No criminal charges or litigation filed. Stack died 9/30/07. Name included on the Rapid City diocese's list in 3/19. On the Conception Abbey Benedictines' list of credibly accused 8/5/19, noting alleged incident(s) 1949-53, in South Dakota.

Sources:

Br. Barnabus Stelzner

Donate Photo

Order: OSB
Status: Sued

Diocese: Diocese of Pueblo CO

Sued in 1997. Stelzner and others were accused of sexual and physical abuse of 15-year-old boy at Holy Cross Abbey in 1982-83.

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Fr. Augustine John Strub

Order: OSB
Ordained: 1947
Status: Accused

Died: 07/17/2015
Diocese: Diocese of Crookston MN

Name released by St. John's Abbey 9/19/17 as added to its list of monks "most likely to have offended minors." Included on the St. Cloud diocese's list. Worked in the Crookston, Duluth and St. Cloud dioceses and the Archdiocese of Mexico City. Left the priesthood in 1961-62. Died 7/17/15.

Assignments:

Jeff Anderson & Associates Timeline and Bio

Sources:

Fr. Francis Suttmiller

Order: OSB
Ordained: 1954
Status: Sued

Diocese: Diocese of Sioux Falls SD

Accused in 2010 lawsuit(s) of abuse of students at St. Paul's Indian Mission (a church-run boarding school for Native American children), on the Yankton Sioux Reservation. Died in 1996.

Sources:

Blue Cloud Abbey Obituary
Huffington Post 04.19.11

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.

Sources:

Fr. Alcuin W. Tasch

Order: OSB
Ordained: 2018
Status: Accused

Died: 04/17/1982
Diocese: Archdiocese of Baltimore MD

Died in 1982. Named publicly as credibly accused by the St. Vincent Archabbey in Latrobe PA in 8/2018. Included on the Baltimore archdiocese's list 4/24/2019. Accused in 1994 of abuse in the late 1950s of an altar boy and student at Fourteen Holy Martyrs in Baltimore, when the boy was in 3rd to 5th grades. In 2003 a man reported abuse by Tasch 1955-1956 when he was a Holy Martyrs altar boy, and that Tasch was often seen with young boys by his side. Included in the 4/5/2023 MD Attorney General's Report.

Sources:

Fr. Hugh Tasch

Order: OSB
Ordained: 1957
Status: Accused

Died: 06/28/2017
Diocese: Diocese of Kansas City-St. Joseph MO

Named publicly as credibly accused by the Conception Abbey Benedictines on their list 8/5/19. Abuse alleged to have occurred in Missouri. Tasch died 6/28/17. Given name was Robert Leo Tasch.

Sources:

Fr. Anthony Tassin

Donate Photo

Order: OSB
Ordained: 1950
Status: Accused

Died: 07/26/2012
Diocese: Archdiocese of New Orleans LA

Named publicly as accused by the St. Joseph Abbey Benedictines on its list in 11/18. It notes an allegation received in 2006 of abuse of a minor in the early 1960s. Further, Tassin left the monastery in 1969 and was dispensed from the priesthood in 1971. He died 7/26/12.

Sources:

St Joseph Abbey Benedictines List November 2018

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.

Sources:

Fr. Paschal Thomas

Order: OSB
Ordained: 1959
Status: Accused

Died: 10/9/2015
Diocese: Diocese of Norwich CT

From India, arrived in the U.S. in 1959, shortly after ordination. Joined the Benedictines in 1979. Named publicly as accused by the Norwich diocese on its list 2/22/2019, as "Thomas Paschal." It notes only that he was reassigned by the Benedictines in 1993. On the Conception Abbey Benedictines' in MO list 8/5/2019. Died 10/9/2015 in MO.

Sources:

Fr. Maximilian Toczylowski

Donate Photo

Order: OSB
Ordained: 2016
Status: Accused

Diocese: Archdiocese of St. Louis MO

Director of the junior school of Saint Louis Priory School when removed in 5/18 after 'inappropriate images' were found on his computer. The school contacted Creve Coeur police 5/30. Faculties removed by Bishop Carlson. Toczylowski was involved in the school's athletics and had worked at a summer program for urban students. He graduated from St. Louis Priory school in 2000.

Sources:

Fr. Luke Travers

Order: OSB
Ordained: 1986
Status: Settled

Diocese: Diocese of Paterson NJ

Headmaster at Delbarton School in NJ 1999-2007; taught there before and after that time. In 2011, two former students accused him of sexual misconduct in the 1980s. One said Travers grabbed his crotch and butt. The other said Travers "crossed boundaries" both while he was a student and later. Removed from current position at Mary Mother of the Church Abbey in VA. Three other accusers came forward. Suit filed 3/20/12. Living under restrictions at Abbey until he severed ties with it in 4/12. Settlement in 6/18 with five men alleging abuse at Delbarton School. New suits in 12/20.

Fr. Isaac True

Order: OSB
Ordained: 1966
Status: Settled

Diocese: Diocese of Kansas City-St. Joseph MO

A man filed suit in 9/11 alleging abuse by True (a relative) and by Msgr. Thomas O'Brien when the accuser was a 9-year-old altar boy at Nativity Church in Independence in late the 1970s. True would also allegedly abuse him during visits to his home, and on trips. True was President-Rector of Conception Seminary 1973-88. Also worked at Blessed Sacrament Parish, in Bethany, Mo. Lawsuit against order settled 11/13 for $125K. Removed from ministry. Included on the Conception Abbey Benedictines list of credibly accused 8/5/19.

Assignments:

BA.org Assignment Record

Sources:

Fr. Herman F. Ubinger

Order: OSB
Ordained: 1958
Status: Accused

Died: 11/11/1997
Diocese: Diocese of Greensburg PA

Named publicly in 8/18 by the Latrobe PA St. Vincent Archabbey Benedictines as credibly accused of the sexual abuse of multiple minors. The archabbey received the allegations in 2002 of abuse 1966-1971, while Ubinger was assigned to St. Vincent's Preparatory School. Ubinger died in 1997.

Sources:

Fr. Bruno Ugliano

Order: OSB
Ordained: 1967
Status: Sued

Died: 11/17/2014
Diocese: Diocese of Paterson NJ

In 7/02 a woman told the diocese in 10/01 that Ugliano sexually abused her at age 14 in the early 1980s, while assigned to a Linden parish. She also accused Revs. Edward Eilert and Joseph Rice. Ugliano was temporarily suspended. Law enforcement deemed the allegations not credible. (She received a settlement in a suit regarding the two other priests.) Ugliano was accused in a 5/21 lawsuit, along with Rev. Manus Duffy and Bro. Jonathan Michael Hunt, of sexually abusing a Delbarton School student, ages 13-14, 1977-78. Ugliano was assistant Delbarton headmaster 1975-78 and headmaster 1985-90. He died 11/17/14.

Assignments:

Linkedin accessed 06.15.21

Sources:

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.

Sources:

Fr. Charles A. Weber

Order: OSB
Ordained: 1945
Status: Accused

Died: 04/14/2000
Diocese: Diocese of Greensburg PA

First named publicly as accused in the 8/14/18 PA Grand Jury Report. Included on the diocese's 8/18 list of credibly accused. Died in 2000. Report to the diocese 5/11/15 that Weber sexually abused an 11- to 13-year-old boy in the early 1980s, at St. Gertrude's in Vandergrift. The alleged victim said that Weber had given a lecture to children about "impure thoughts and actions," and that afterward, when the two were alone, the priest fondled the boy's genitals.

Assignments:

Sources:

Fr. Wilfred Weitz

Order: OSB
Ordained: 1936
Status: Sued

Diocese: Archdiocese of Los Angeles CA

Accused of abuse of one 1959-61, per 2004 archdiocesan report. Died in 1991. Named in at least one lawsuit.

Assignments:

LA Times Database 04.20.06

Sources:

LA Archdiocesan Report 02.17.04
LA Archdiocesan Report Addendum 11.15.05

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. Cosmas White

Order: OSB
Ordained: 1961
Status: Settled

Diocese: Archdiocese of Portland OR

Prior to 7/02, a man filed suit alleging that White abused him during the 1964-65 school year at Mount Angel Seminary Prep School. White "retired" without privileges after the suit was filed. Suit settled "for a nominal amount of money" two months after it was filed. Per news in 9/04, the order cleared White of the molestation charges and he was to be allowed to resume public ministry. Review board found no evidence to support the allegation. Died 4/27/17.

Sources:

Fr. Robert Woerdeman

Donate Photo

Order: OSB
Ordained: 1954
Status: Accused

Diocese: Diocese of Evansville IN

Named publicly as accused by the diocese on its list 2/22/19. One allegation noted, deemed credible by the St. Meinrad Archabbey Review Board. Woerdeman was laicized in 1975 and died in 2005.

Assignments:

Diocese of Evansville List 02.22.19

Sources:

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. Benedict Worry

Order: OSB
Ordained: 1987
Status: Settled

Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Initially was"Bro. Michael" with Brothers of the Holy Rosary (F.S.R.). Worked in Reno diocese; taught at Manogue High School 1974-78, directed CYO program. Ordained a Benedictine priest in 1987. Taught at Delbarton School in NJ for 18 years. In 6/12 a man joined in an existing suit against Delbarton School to allege abuse in 1980s by Worry. A 2015 lawsuit settled. Worry had been removed from assignment in 1/12 and sent to St. Mary's Abbey after allegation of misconduct in the 1990s. Said to be under strict supervision. Accused in a lawsuit against the Delbarton School filed in 7/20 under the NJ Child Sexual Abuse Act of abusing a 15-year-old boy 1978-79. Reportedly still living on campus in 7/20.

Sources:

Fr. Camillus Wurtz

Order: OSB
Ordained: 1953
Status: Accused

Died: 08/16/2013
Diocese: Archdiocese of Kansas City KS

In 2004 a man complained to St. Benedict's Abbey that Wurtz had molested him when the man was a boarding student at Maur Hill-Mount Academy during the 1960s. The abbot kept Wurtz in ministry until 2/04, after the Review Board deemed the allegation credible and recommended Wurtz's removal. Still a priest at St. Benedict's Abbey in Atchison as of a 2/06 website post. Died 8/16/13.

Sources:

Fr. Angelo Zankl

Order: OSB
Ordained: 1926
Status: Accused

Died: 07/12/2007
Diocese: Diocese of Duluth MN

On 12/31/2013, the diocese released its list of 17 clergy, including Zankl, who had been credibly accused of the sexual abuse of young persons while serving in the diocese, and another five who had been accused while residing in the diocese at some point. Spent much time at St. John Abbey before and after working in the diocese 1951-1987. Left the diocese 5/30/1987. Died 07/12/2007, age 106. Accusation received shortly before the diocese released its list.

Assignments:

Diocese of Duluth Assignment Record

Sources:

Fr. Francis A. Zimmerer

Order: OSB
Ordained: 1932
Status: Accused

Died: 01/23/1983
Diocese: Diocese of Fort Worth TX

In 9/08 the Fort Worth diocese announced a credible allegation that ZImmerer sexually abused a boy, age 11, while assigned to Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Decatur in 1978. Zimmerer died in 1/23/83 at age 74. As of 9/15, two more men had come forward with credible allegations of abuse at the same church. Also worked in AR, MI, WI. Name included on Little Rock's 9/10/18 list (mistakenly as Francis 'Zimmer'). On the Springfield-Cape Girardeau diocese's list updated 4/1/19. On the La Crosse diocese's list 1/18/20.