Fr. Walter A. Breuning
Retired in 1999. Removed from public ministry in 2002 after allegation of sexual abuse of minors 20-40 years prior, at least as young as age 9. Two brothers alleged he abused them in the late 1960s-early 1970s while assigned to St. Joseph’s in Pekin. Three suits filed in 12/2005 alleged child sexual abuse. Name sometimes spelled Bruening. Suit dismissed by lower court but reinstated by Appeals Court in 1/2009. Settled. At least 12 accusers. On diocese’s list in 12/2018, name spelled “Bruening.” Died 11/2/2009. Included in the 5/23/2023 IL Attorney General’s Report.
- Diocesan Press Release 05.30.02
- Copely News Services 05.30.02
- Chicago Tribune 05.31.02
- Catholic Post 08.29.02
- WEEK 11.30.05
- Copely News Service 11.30.05
- Peoria Journal Star 12.01.05
- Lincoln Courier 12.02.05
- Catholic Post 12.04.05
- Peoria Journal Star 04.14.07
- Peoria Jounal Star 10.13.07
- Journal Star 01.21.09
- Diocese of Peoria List 12.21.18
- News Tribune 01.15.19
- WEEK TV 02.13.19
- WEEK TV 02.14.19
- IL Attorney General’s Report 05.23.23
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