Fr. Francis F. Hoefgen

Order: OSB
Ordained: 1979
Status: Acquitted

Accused in a 1992 lawsuit of abuse in 1982 of a 16-year-old boy, who lived with him as a foster son. Hoefgen knew the boy was suicidal when he invited him to move into his home. He admitted sexual encounters to the church in 1984; sent for treatment and after six months was assigned to a new parish. Suit dismissed in 11/93 due to SOL. Apology by Hoefgen printed in newspaper in 9/02 as part of a group settlement involving several living at St. John’s Abbey. Permanently removed in 2002. Laicized in 12/11. Sued 11/18/13. Included in 12/13 on the St. Paul and Minneapolis archdiocese’s list of credibly accused. St. Paul personnel file released 05/19/14. Arrested 05/21/14, charged with two counts of criminal sexual conduct against a boy in 4th-6th grades, occurring 1989-91. Pleaded not guilty 9/5/14. Trial set for 5/15. Acquitted. Files released in 11/15 show pattern of predation toward boys, beginning in the 1980s and continuing for two decades.

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