Fr. William Romero

Ordained: 1967
Status: Settled

Retired in 1995. Faculties revoked in 5/2002 due to accusations dating back “many years.” Allegedly, during the 1975-1976 school year at St. Ann’s in Naples, Romero would force students to undress in his bedroom, after which they would share wine from the chalice and take the host wafer. He would also take nude pictures of some children. Hosted foreign exchange students; two from Germany alleged abuse. Several suits filed. Some settled 2004-2005. A 6/2003 suit claimed rape of a Miami boy, age 10, in 1975. An 8/2003 suit claimed abuse of three siblings, a girl and two boys, 1982-1989 in Moore Haven. Left the priesthood in 2003. Was still hosting exchange students. Suit in 10/2003 said abuse of boy, age 12, in 1976. New civil suit vs the Miami archdiocese 3/22/2012 claimed abuse of a boy at St. Augustine’s in Coral Gables in the 1970s.

Sources:

Return to main database page. See abbreviations and posting policy. Send corrections.

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