Fr. Terry W. Specht
Spent 20 years in the Navy prior to priesthood. Complaint made in 1/12 that he had been involved in sexual misconduct with a teenage boy in the late 1990s; not removed until 4/12 from position at Holy Spirit Church in Annandale. Was parochial vicar at St. Mary of Sorrows Church in Fairfax at the time of the alleged sexual misconduct. Director of the Office of Child Protection and Safety 2004-2011. Denied the allegations. Reportedly in 2/19, the diocese was unable to decide whether the allegations were credible, and Specht was granted a medical retirement shortly after he was placed on leave. In 12/21 the VA Attorney General announced that Specht was indicted by a grand jury on two felony charges related to the alleged sexual abuse of a child younger than 13, occurring in 2000. Specht was chaplain and assistant principal of St. Paul VI Catholic High School during the time in question. Found not guilty at trial in 10/22. Per the diocese, Specht would not be returned to ministry.
- Imperfect Parent 04.18.12
- NBC Washington 04.18.12
- WJLA 04.18.12
- Washington Times 04.18.12
- Statement by Diocese of Arlington 04.18.12
- Washington Post 04.18.12
- Washington Examiner 04.19.12
- WUSA 04.19.12
- WUSA 02.13.19
- WTOP 12.28.21
- Associated Press 12.28.21
- Washington Post 12.28.21
- Diocese of Arlington VA 10.05.22
- Washington Post 10.06.22
- Catholic News Agency 10.10.22
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