Fr. Richard T. Coughlin

Ordained: 1953
Status: Settled

Diocese: Archdiocese of Boston MA

Coughlin went from Boston to the Diocese of Orange in 1965 and established the All American Boys Chorus. Excardinated to Orange 1971. Allegations in 1993 that he abused several boys who were members of the choir 1970-1983; at least three suits were filed in 1993 and 1994. The L.A. Archdiocese report noted six accusers. Also accused of abuse in Boston MA and NH before his time in CA. Named in a 2002 Boston suit. Over $3M in settlements. Permanently restricted from ministry per Boston AD database 8/2015. Included on Attorney Garabedian’s list 3/28/2016 of accused clerics named in civil claims resulting in settlements or arbitration awards. One plaintiff, from Boston, said Coughlin abused him 1957-1962. A suit filed in Orange County 2/3/2017 alleged abuse of a Boys Choir member beginning at age 10. Status as of 8/2016 was “Life of Prayer and Penance.” The Diocese of Orange list in 12/2020 shows that Coughlin had been laicized.


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