Fr. Richard E. Smith

Monsignor. Removed from active ministry in 3/2007 after allegations by two women that he sexually abused them when they were teens between 1966-1967, at the former Shrine of Our Lady of Perpetual Help in Woodlawn. One of the women alleged rape. Smith confirmed some of the allegations. Sent to St. Luke Institute for evaluation and treatment. Claims reported to State Attorney’s office. Allegations of abuse, including rape, in 1980 of an altar boy, age 7-8, were made in 5/2006, but not publicized by the Archdiocese. The victim received a settlement of $37, 500. In 12/2007 a man reported abuse by Smith as a 10-year-old altar boy and St. Jane Francis School student. The man later said Smith abused him many times, including rape, over two years when he was a seventh and eighth-grader. Settlement of $40,000. Three different women came forward, in 2009, 2018 and 2022 alleging abuse by Smith as girls, two in the 1960s, one in 1989. Smith died 10/25/2008. On the archdiocese’s list 7/23/2019. Included in the 4/5/2023 MD Attorney General’s Report.