Ex-chicago Priest Daniel Mccormack Arrested Again

By Stacey Baca
WLS
May 21, 2014

http://abc7chicago.com/news/ex-chicago-priest-daniel-mccormack-arrested-again/72564/

Former Chicago priest Daniel McCormack is in custody again. The convicted child molester was arrested Wednesday night in connection with another alleged sexual assault.

McCormack is facing one charge of aggravated criminal sexual abuse, according to the Cook County State's Attorney's office. Prosecutors expect more details to be released in court Thursday.

McCormack was brought to the 1st District in the South Loop on an arrest warrant Wednesday night.

"When we hear that he is being prosecuted again, and inevitably incarcerated perhaps for life. It gives us some comfort to us and those whose lives who have been shattered and torn," said Jeff Anderson, attorney. "

Anderson is the legal force behind the Chicago Archdiocese releasing thousands of personnel files earlier this year, and represents Darryl McArthur, the first to publicly accuse and sue McCormack for abusing him as a child.

"You have victimized me. And I'm a survivor now," McArthur said last year.

Anderson says he's pleased with the McCormack's arrest and says he will continue fighting the civil lawsuits that involve McCormack and how his case was handled by the church.

"We have the deposition of Cardinal George coming up shortly where we will be examining him about his handling or mishandling of McCormack," said Anderson.

In 2007, McCormack pleaded guilty to several counts of sexual assault. After serving his time, he has remained in state custody until a civil process determines his future, given his criminal history. On Wednesday night, an anti-abuse group expects even more victims to step forward.

"I suspect there are many more to come, what's so disappointing is all of this could have been prevented," said Barbara Blaine, Survivors Network of those Abused by Priests.

Anderson said Cardinal George's deposition is scheduled for next week. The Chicago Archdiocese did not return phone calls or emails for comment Wednesday night.

McCormack is scheduled to appear in bond court Thursday at noon.