Fr. Arthur J. Smith

Ordained: 1971
Status: Sued

Diocese: Diocese of Buffalo NY

Suspended in 2011 after complaints about behavior toward a boy. Refused to stay away from the boy’s school. Sent to Vianney Center for treatment. In 11/2012 given nursing home ministry by new bishop Malone. Reports in 10/2013 of inappropriately touching two young men there. Malone wrote glowing recommendations in 2015 and 2016 for Smith for work which would put him in contact with children. Found to be cruise ship chaplain in 2018. Per diocese in 6/2018,  allegations substantiated. Nephew said in 2/2019 Smith abused him at age 9. Suit filed in 9/2019 claimed abuse of boy, age 16, in 1976. Accused in 2003 of sexual assault of a seminarian, who told Auxiliary Bishop Grosz. Grosz allegedly blamed the seminarian for not locking his door, and warned him to keep quiet or he’d lose his vocation. Removed from diocesan payroll 5/1/2019 in bankruptcy agreement. Filed suit against the diocese in 4/2022 to restore pension.

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