Fr. James R. Schook

Ordained: 1975
Status: Convicted

Died: 12/10/2018
Diocese: Archdiocese of Louisville KY

Removed in 7/2009 after an allegation that he sexually abused a male teen in 1985. The Archdiocese said the allegation did not involve parishes where Schook worked. There were four more complaints of abuse in the 1970s and 1980s. Permanent removal to life of prayer and penance in 2/2010 after the Review Board deemed the allegations credible. A former church worker sued in 1/2011 alleging termination when she turned him in. The suit was dismissed in 5/2011. Appealed in 6/2011. Criminally charged 6/30/2011 – two accusers. Convicted of three counts of sodomy 4/16/2014 in one case and one count of indecent or immoral practice in the second case. Formally sentenced 5/30/2014 to 15 years in prison; arrested. Terminally ill with skin cancer; was to be housed at the Kentucky State Reformatory in Oldham County which had nursing and hospice units. Appeal filed 5/12/2014 included a request that he be allowed to stay out of jail during appeal. Early parole granted 11/2017 due to medical status. Died 12/10/2018.

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.