Fr. Joseph Edward Bradley

Ordained: 1975
Status: Accused

Diocese: Archdiocese of Louisville KY

Suspended in 3/2019 due to an allegation that he sexually abused a minor in the 1980s while principal of Owensboro Catholic High School. Assigned to the school 1976-1995, principal 1980-1985. Pastor of five parishes. Retired in 2011. Volunteer chaplain at Owensboro Catholic High in retirement. Diocesan Review Board deemed the allegation substantiated. Bishop Medley sent a report to the Vatican, recommending the suspension be permanent. Bradley filed an appeal with the Vatican. In 4/2021 the Vatican informed Medley that Bradley was to be reinstated, with restrictions lifted. The Vatican decree noted Bradley’s “imprudent behavior” and imposed a restriction that he was not to enter any primary or secondary school for five years.


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