Archdiocese of Newark NJ - BishopAccountability.org

134 Accused in This Diocese

Fr. Robert Alcamo

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Ordained: 1980
Status: Accused

Named publicly as accused by the archdiocese on its list 2/13/19. One alleged victim noted. Permanently removed from ministry and laicized.

Sources:

Fr. Jorge Batista

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Ordained: 1983
Status: Accused

Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Named publicly as accused by the archdiocese on its list 2/13/19. One alleged victim noted. Deceased.

Sources:

Fr. James T. Benedetto

Ordained: 1970
Status: Accused

Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Named publicly as accused by the archdiocese on its list 2/13/19. One alleged victim noted. Permanently removed from ministry.

Sources:

Fr. John X. Bergeur

Ordained: 1945
Status: Accused

Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Named publicly as accused by the archdiocese on its list 2/13/19. One alleged victim noted. Died 3/23/05.

Sources:

Fr. John G. Biermann

Order: SAC
Ordained: 1969
Status: Sued

Died: 01/22/2019
Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Named publicly in 11/21 by Attorney Jeff Anderson as accused in a lawsuit filed under the NJ Victims’ Rights Bill.

Sources:

Fr. Vincent Bonelli

Ordained: 1956
Status: Accused

Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Named publicly as accused by the archdiocese on its list 2/13/19. One alleged victim noted. Died 4/2/75.

Sources:

Fr. John C. Bouton

Ordained: 1949
Status: Accused

Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Named publicly as accused by the archdiocese on its list 2/13/19. One alleged victim noted. Died 3/11/86.

Sources:

Br. David B. Burton

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Order: CFC
Status: Settled

Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Included on the order's list of former and deceased brothers with at least two claims of sexual abuse against them, as required by its bankruptcy settlement in 2014. No details provided as to when and where the alleged abuse occurred. Placing Burton in the Archdiocese of Newark, where the Irish Christian Brothers' North American Province is based.

Sources:

Br. Gerald K. Barry

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Order: CFC
Status: Settled

Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Included on the order's list of former and deceased brothers with at least two claims of sexual abuse against them, as required by its bankruptcy settlement in 2014. No details provided as to when and where the alleged abuse occurred. Placing Barry in the Archdiocese of Newark, where the Irish Christian Brothers' North American Province is based.

Sources:

Fr. Kevin M. Bray

Order: OSB
Ordained: 1951
Status: Settled

Died: 04/14/2022
Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Died in 2000. Accused in a lawsuit in 2008. Named also in a 12/20 lawsuit of abuse of a boy, ages 13-14, in 1986-87 while a teacher at Blessed Sacrament Parish School in Elizabeth NJ. The plaintiff was a student. Settlement(s).

Assignments:

Sources:

NJ com 12.10.20

Fr. Michael G. Campanalonga

Ordained: 1962
Status: Sued

Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Accused of abusing three brothers in the late 1960's-early '70s, including on trip to California. Permanently suspended in 1993 after refusing psychiatric evaluation after allegations of sexual abuse were made. Two of the three brothers sued him in 1994. SOL stopped legal action and case dismissed 2002 after several appeals.

Sources:

Fr. Michael Campanlonga

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Ordained: 1962
Status: Accused

Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Named publicly as accused by the archdiocese on its list 2/13/19. Multiple victims noted. Permanently removed from ministry.

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Fr. John M. Capparelli

Ordained: 1980
Status: Settled

Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Accused in 7/11 suit of abuse of a youth. Allegedly had boys wrestle in skimpy bathing suits and photographed them. Sold videos on web. Accused of groping plaintiff. Suit names Scouts and Diocese. Left active priesthood in mid-1980s. Privileges removed 1992; sent to treatment. Taught high school in Newark public schools for 20 years. At least 24 other men came forward with same complaints. Given non-teaching job 11/11. Another suit 12/11. Both settled in 2012. Surrendered public schools teaching license in 6/13. Laicized, possibly in 3/14. His appearance at an annual Family Festival at Our Lady of the Valley parish resulted in suspension without privileges by Paterson bishop of the pastor, Chris Di Lella, a long-time friend. On Newark archdiocese's list 2/13/19. Died 3/6/19 of gunshot wound at his home in NV. Homicide investigation initiated. Reportedly had a history of hiring male prostitutes. Alleged shooter had answered Capparelli's add for male wrestlers. New suit(s) in 7/20 claim abuse in the 1980s. By 11/21 accused in 20 lawsuits.

Fr. James A. Carey

Ordained: 1936
Status: Accused

Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Named publicly as accused by the archdiocese on its list 2/13/19. One alleged victim noted. Deceased.

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Fr. Richard J. Carrington

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Ordained: 1976
Status: Sued

Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Named publicly in 11/21 by Attorney Jeff Anderson as accused in a lawsuit filed under the NJ Victims' Rights Bill. As of 2019 was pastor of Our Lady of Lourdes in Mountainside NJ.

Sources:

Jeff Anderson and Associates 11.18.21

Fr. Joseph F.X. Cevetello

Ordained: 1947
Status: Sued

Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Accused in a lawsuit 12/19 of sexually abusing a boy, age 13, during private preparation for First Communion in 1976 or '77. Cevetello was pastor of Our Lady of Mount Virgin in Garfield at the time of the alleged abuse. He died in 1985.

Sources:

The Record 02.08.18
Asbury Park Press 12.08.19

Fr. Robert H. Chabak

Ordained: 1972
Status: Sued

Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Removed from St. Valentine in Bloomfield in 11/2004 due to an allegation that he abused a boy for three years, starting when the boy was age 15 and Chabak was assigned to St. Mary of the Assumption in Elizabeth. Named Monsignor in 1998. Retired per 2009-2012 Catholic Directories. Had been living in a rectory after Hurricane Sandy with permission from the Archdiocese until public pressure forced his removal in 2/2013. On Archdiocese's list 2/13/2019. Multiple allegations noted. Permanently removed from ministry. Accused in a 12/2019 suit of abusing a boy, age 13 or 14, at Christ the King in Hillside 1983-1984.

Assignments:

BA.org Assignment Record

Sources:

Br. John B. Chaney

Order: CFC
Status: Settled

Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Listed on 6/11/14 by the Edmund Rice Christian Brothers (CFC) as accused by at least two persons in claims settled in bankruptcy proceedings. The order states that the merits of most of the claims settled in the bankruptcy were not tested. Chaney was added to a list of accused on the website of Boston attorney Garabedian on 10/31/14 after a settlement had been reached in the year previous. Assignments included Bergen Catholic High School in Oradell NJ, where the abuse alleged in the Garabedian case is said to have been committed. The 2014 Official Catholic Directory shows Chaney living at a Christian Brothers residence in West Park, in the NY archdiocese. Convicted abuser Bro Ronald Justin Lasik CFC and accused Bro John Laurence Heathwood CFC are also listed as residing there. Lawsuits in 3/21 by three former students allege abuse in the 1960s and '70s. Living in 3/21 in a CFC residence in New Rochelle.

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Fr. Peter A. Cheplic

Ordained: 1972
Status: Settled

Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Known first to have been accused by a man in 2002. Accused in 2005 of abuse in 1980s by three people. Went on "voluntary" leave in 2005. Retired in 2006 after Church decided to try him. First accuser settled 4/06 for $50,000. Two others also settled. Privileges withdrawn. Last known to be living without restrictions at St. John Vianney Residence for Retired Priests in Rutherford, NJ. On archdiocese's list 2/13/19. Permanently removed from ministry.

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Br. Robert Coakley

Status: Sued

Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

A/k/a Br. Edmund. Scoutmaster and teacher. Accused of abuse of of two brothers, one of whom died by suicide at age 12. Coakley died in 1988. Civil suit filed and appealed to NJ Supreme Court. Dismissed because of NJ Charitable Immunity Act. Coakley's name appeared in the Boy Scout Perversion files released in 2012.

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Fr. Dennis E. Cocozza

Ordained: 1975
Status: Accused

Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Removed from his assignment at Church of the Assumption in Roselle Park in 4/02 after accusation of "sexual improprieties involving a minor" several years previously. Died 2/16/17. On archdiocese's list 2/13/19.

Sources:

Fr. Arturo Crespo

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Ordained: 1994
Status: Accused

Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Named publicly as accused by the diocese on its list 2/13/19. One allegation against him noted. Permanently removed from ministry.

Sources:

Fr. William S. Crouse

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Order: FSCJ
Ordained: 1959
Status: Accused

Died: 07/11/2009
Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Worked in Ethiopia, GA, OH, NJ, Vietnam, MD, Puerto Rico and PA. Per the PA Attorney General's 3/1/16 report, Crouse sodomized a 14-year-old boy in the late 1960s while assigned to his order's monastery (Sons of the Sacred Heart, or "Verona Fathers") in Montclair, NJ. Victim told Altoona's Bishop Adamec in 2002. (Crouse was assigned to Altoona-Johnstown diocese at the time.) Alleged a "Fr Ben" also molested him, and both gave him alcohol. Crouse admitted "inappropriate relationship." Medical retirement 2002. Died 07/11/09.

Assignments:

PA Office of the Attorney General 03.01.16

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Br. John H. Dagwell

Order: CFX
Status: Guilty plea

Died: 03/13/2020
Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Br. Aloysius. Joined the Xaverians in 1962. Per Boston personnel files released 1/2003, Dagwell pleaded guilty in 1988 to molesting a student in Newark, NJ; others also complained. Sentenced to probation and ordered to stay away from children. Fired from his position as teacher and coach at a parochial school. Transferred to Boston; may have abused there. Left the order in 2002. Worked for 15 years at Keiser University in Ft. Lauderdale, FL. Included on the Xaverians' list 7/12/2019. Died in 3/2020. Lawsuit filed in 7/2020. Accused in a new suit filed in 10/2021.

Assignments:

Xaverian Brothers List 07.12.19

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Fr. Hadmels R. DeFrias

Ordained: 1999
Status: Sentenced

Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

From the Dominican Republic. Accused of fondling two brothers under the age of 14 when they worked at the rectory of St. Mary's of the Assumption in Elizabeth in 2001 and 2002. Their mother walked in on an incident and complained to church officials. Removed from the parish and active priesthood. Arrested in 2003; living in MD at the time. Pled guilty. Sentenced to three years probation and barred from contact with minors in NJ. On the archdiocese's list 2/13/19. Permanently removed from ministry. Laicized. Lived in FL 2003-2010. Found in 3/19 to be teaching children at a private school in the Dominican Republic. Presenting himself as "Father Rafael" as part of an interfaith group called "The Order of Eremitic Servants."

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Fr. Peter C. Del Negro

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Ordained: 1977
Status: Sued

Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Named publicly in 11/21 by Attorney Jeff Anderson as accused in a lawsuit filed under the NJ Victims' Rights Bill.

Documents:

Jeff Anderson and Associates 11.18.21

Bishop Nicholas A. DiMarzio

Ordained: 1970
Status: Sued

Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Named Auxiliary Bishop of Newark in 1996, Bishop of Camden in 1999, and Bishop of Brooklyn in 2003. In 11/19 the Newark archdiocese was notified of an allegation that DiMarzio sexually abused a St. Nicholas in Jersey City altar boy, age 11, in the mid-1970s. His alleged victim also accused Rev. Albert Mark. The man filed suit in 3/21. DiMarzio "emphatically denied" the allegation. In 1/20 the Vatican ordered Cardinal Dolan to investigate. In 3/20 a second man came forward, alleging DiMarzio repeatedly sexually abused him when he was about age six, forty years prior, at Holy Rosary in Jersey City. DiMarzio denied the allegation. This man filed suit in 2/21. On 9/1/21 the Vatican announced that the allegations were without "the semblance of truth." DiMarzio retired several weeks later, at age 77.

Assignments:

BA.org Assignment Record

Sources:

Fr. Salvatore DiStefano

Ordained: 2003
Status: Accused

Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Placed on leave in 1/20 during an investigation of recent, unspecified complaints. Chaplain of Oratory Catholic Prep in Summit, an all-boys school. The archdiocese stated that it "takes very seriously any and all credible complaints of sexual misconduct or sexual abuse of minors by members of the clergy.... ."

Sources:

Patch 01.22.20

Fr. Yusaf Dominic

Ordained: 1974
Status: Convicted

Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

From Pakistan. Accused of abuse of boys in several countries. Convicted of abuse in 1996 in England. Returned to ministry after jail. In US, he worked in Newark diocese and in the New York City area. Several variations on his name, depending on where he worked, including Dominic Yusaf. In 2004 he was found working in Italy.

Sources:

Dallas Morning News 06.23.04
SNAP Fact Sheet 06.09.10

Fr. John J. Donohue

Ordained: 1973
Status: Accused

Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Publicly named as accused by the diocese on its list 3/17/19. Multiple alleged victims noted. Permanently removed from ministry.

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Fr. William J. Dowd

Ordained: 1967
Status: Settled

Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Suspended in 2002. Accused by two men of abuse as boys. Case referred to Vatican which sent it back to archdiocese for trial. Church trial held in 1/05. Acquitted; Vatican did not confirm the verdict until 2007. Returned to ministry as of 7/01/07. Returned to job as chaplain for NY Giants, but not to parish ministry. Lawsuit filed in 12/19 by one of the two who came forward in 2002, claiming abuse for five years, beginning in 1967 when he was age 12. Settled. Accused in suit filed in 11/20 of raping a girl, age 10, in 1971, and abusing her until 1975. Per the suit, two nuns held the girl down during the rape. Dowd denied it.

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Fr. Thomas F. Duffy

Ordained: 1933
Status: Accused

Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Named publicly as accused by the archdiocese on its list 2/13/19. One alleged victim noted. Deceased.

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Fr. Luke Wesley Duncanson

Order: OSB
Ordained: 1956
Status: Accused

Died: 02/26/1979
Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

"Wesley" also "Wesley J." Ordained for the Benedictine order. Known to have been assigned in South Dakota, New Jersey, Maryland, and Washington D.C. Appears to have left the order at some point. Accused of sexually abusing a boy, age 11, in 1971 in Bayonne NJ. In 2024 Duncanson's victim published a memoir, "My Fathers: Letters of Healing on a Quest for the Truth." Duncanson died in 1979.

Assignments:

BishopAccountability.org Assignment Record

Sources:

Fr. John J. Egan

Ordained: 1959
Status: Sued

Died: 07/23/1999
Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Named publicly in 11/21 by Attorney Jeff Anderson as accused in a lawsuit filed under the NJ Victims' Rights Bill. Egan died 7/23/99.

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Fr. Robert P. Egan

Ordained: 1943
Status: Sued

Died: 08/14/1998
Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Monsignor. Named publicly in 11/21 by Attorney Jeff Anderson as accused in a lawsuit filed under the NJ Victims' Rights Bill. Longtime Director of NJ Boys Town. Egan died 8/14/98.

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Fr. Edward J. Eilert

Ordained: 1964
Status: Sued

Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Accused in 2002 of abuse of a teenage girl in the early 1980s. The allegations were deemed credible by the archdiocese. His accuser said she was also abused by two other priests. No prosecution, due to the statute of limitations. Living without restrictions at St. John Vianney Residence for Retired Priests in Rutherford, NJ for several years as of 11/13. On archdiocese's list 2/13/19. Multiple alleged victims noted. Permanently removed from ministry. A lawsuit filed by a man in 11/21 claims Eilert abused him in 1978.

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Fr. David A. Ernst

Ordained: 1954
Status: Settled

Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Multiple accusers over the years. Sex education teacher for boys at Our Lady Help of Christians parochial school in East Orange, where he was assigned 1954-69. Died 3/26/88. At least one claim against Ernst included in 10/04 $1M settlement between archdiocese and individuals who claimed abuse by 9 priests. Also worked in parishes in Ridgefield Park, Rutherford, Union City and Wyckoff. On archdiocese's list 2/13/19. Two new suits filed in 1/20 naming Ernst.

Assignments:

BA.org Assignment Record

Sources:

Fr. Joseph P. Fagan

Ordained: 1937
Status: Accused

Died: 01/14/2004
Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Named publicly as accused by the Archdiocese on its list 2/13/2019. One alleged victim noted. Accused in a 12/2020 lawsuit of sexually abusing a boy multiple times. The boy was a student at St. Teresa of the Little Flower School in Berkeley Heights. Fagan would allegedly comment to the boy during confession about the boy's genitalia, and tell the boy to masturbate while he did the same. Fagan died 1/14/2004.

Documents:

Plaintiff v St. Antoninus Church et al 12.17.20

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Fr. Eugene Fanelli

Ordained: 1940
Status: Sued

Died: 05/9/2000
Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Assigned to Our Lady of Mount Carmel in Jersey City until 1953, then Madonna Della Libera (Our Lady of Libera) in West New York until his retirement in 1993. Elevated to monsignor in 1989. Active in retirement at parishes in Mount Carmel, Jersey City, Fort Lee, Newark, West Long Branch. Directed musical theater at parishes. Died 5/9/00. Accused in several lawsuits filed in 2019, 2020 and 2021 of abuse while assigned to Holy Redeemer/Our Lady of Libera, 1975-77. By 11/21 at least four people had claimed abuse by Fanelli as children. One man first told his mother in 2018, who then revealed that his father, who had died by suicide, had also been sexually abused as a child by Fanelli.

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Fr. John L. Flanagan

Ordained: 1941
Status: Sued

Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Named publicly as accused by the archdiocese on its list 2/13/19. One alleged victim noted. Died 6/25/75. Suit filed in 12/19 claiming abuse of a boy while assigned to Holy Trinity. The abuse allegedly began when the boy was age 7 and occurred in the 1950s and '60s. The suit claims that Flanagan also abused other children.

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Br. Thomas Cuthbert Ford

Order: CFC
Status: Convicted

Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Irish and U.S. citizen. Accused of beating and sexually abusing five boys at Mount Cashel orphanage in Newfoundland 1956-59. Worked as Dean at Damien Memorial School in HI 1972-75. Taught at Bergen Catholic in Newark archdiocese 1986-96. Indicted in Canada in 1996. In 2000 he agreed to return to Canada. Charges reduced. He pled guilty to brutally beating one of the boys in a shower and was sentenced to five months in jail in 8/00. Died 12/24/08. Named in a civil suit 4/4/14 as having abused one boy at Damien Memorial in about 1970. Listed by the Edmund Rice Christian Brothers in 2014 as accused by at least two persons in claims settled in bankruptcy proceedings.

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Fr. George D. Gillen

Ordained: 1971
Status: Accused

Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Named in a case settled in 8/2008 as having sexually abused a boy who had been sent to him for counseling, beginning when the boy was age 12 in about 1988, and continuing into the boy's adulthood. As pastor of St. Joseph the Carpenter in Roselle, Gillen hired his alleged victim to lead youth activities. The alleged victim, John Schulte, was arrested in 11/2002 and convicted for the sexual assault of three boys in the parish. Gillen remained in active ministry.

Sources:

rwsipe.com on Newark 09.2009

Fr. Maurus McBarron

Order: OSB
Ordained: 1934
Status: Settled

Died: 09/1/1987
Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

A/k/a Joseph. Named publicly as accused in 4/22 by Attorney Mitchell Garabedian. Accused in a lawsuit that settled of sexually abusing a girl, ages 13-14, in 1977-79. McBarron was assigned to St. Mary's in Newark NJ during the time in question. He died in 1987.

Assignments:

Garabedian Law Assignment Record

Sources:

Fr. Michael C. Fugee

Ordained: 1994
Status: Convicted

Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Accused in 2001 of fonding a boy in 1999, beginning when the boy was age 13. Admitted behavior. Placed on leave. Found guilty 4/03 of aggravated sexual contact. Given lifetime parole, ordered to register as sex offender. Conviction overturned on appeal 2006. Signed agreement never to work unsupervised with children and to go to sex offender therapy. Back in ministry by 2009 as hospital chaplain and in parishes. Given chancery work. In 4/13 was found to be helping with overnight teen retreats in a parish. Parents upset. Resigned from active ministry 5/2/13. As part of criminal case against him for contempt of court based on recent behavior, agreed 11/1/13 to voluntarily seek laicization. Laicization announced 3/17/14. On archdiocese's list 2/13/19.

Assignments:

BA.org Assignment Record

Sources:

Fr. Lawrence Gadek

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Ordained: 1955
Status: Settled

Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Named publicly as accused by the archdiocese on its list 2/13/19. Multiple alleged victims noted. Permanently removed from ministry. Laicized. In 1/20 there was a settlement in the mid-six figures. In that case, Gadek was accused of sexually abusing a girl, ages 11-13, in 1960-62, while assigned to St. Catherine's in Hillside.

Assignments:

Garabedian Law Offices Assignment Record

Sources:

Archdiocese of Newark Tobin Letter 02.13.19
Archdiocese of Newark List 02.13.19

Fr. Richard Galdon

Ordained: 1959
Status: Convicted

Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Took leave in 1986. Suspended in 1987. Abused boys in the 1960s-70s as priest and Boy Scout troop chaplain. Convicted in 1987 of sexual abuse of three, ages 9-13. Sentenced to 25 years. Charges of abuse of seven others dropped. Died in 2000. Per obituary he had been "serving at the Service of the Paraclete, a home for retired priests in Jemez Springs, New Mexico." It was actually a treatment facility for pedophile priests. On Newark archdiocese's list 2/13/19. Three claims settled in 2020 in the six figures.

Assignments:

Garabedian Law Offices Assignment Record

Sources:

Fr. John J. Galeano

Ordained: 2002
Status: Sued

Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Accused in a lawsuit filed in 11/21 of sexually abusing a minor, about age 17, in around 2016. In 2019 Galeano had "relinquished his duties" at St. Joseph's in Bogota NJ after allegations of inappropriate contact with an adult.

Sources:

NorthJersey.com 11.29.21

Fr. Manuel Gallo Espinoza

Ordained: 1998
Status: Indicted

Died: 07/2/2022
Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

St. Mary's, Plainfield NJ visiting priest from Ecuador. In 4/03 a 15-year-old male St. Mary's youth group member told his priest-cousin and a youth group leader Gallo Espinoza raped him in a parish rectory bedroom. Reported less than two weeks later by Catholic Charities to prosecutor's office. Gallo Espinoza old by Archdiocese he could no longer minister; fled to Ecuador. Investigation closed. In 2010 the boy, then a young adult, filed police report. The AD Review Board deemed the allegation credible and recommended laicization. In 2005 Gallo Espinoza returned to the US and taught in a middle school and a high school in MD and VA. Abruptly fled in 2/14. In 7/15 his whereabouts were unknown. Criminal investigation re-opened. Found in 8/15 to be in Ecuador. Admitted to a "sexual encounter" with the boy. Victim filed criminal complaint and arrest warrant issued 1/16. Indicted in 5/16. Still at large at the time. On archdiocese's list 2/13/19. Permanently removed from ministry. Died by suicide in Ecuador 7/2/22 after shooting three people, killing one.

Sources:

Maria Michael Garner

Order: SC
Status: Sued

Died: 12/17/2014
Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Sister of Charity of St. Elizabeth in Morris Township, NJ. Accused in a lawsuit filed 11/24/20 of sexually abusing a girl in her office at Immaculate Conception School several times a week, beginning in 1969 when the girl was age 8. Garner was a teacher and administrator at the school. Also accused, along with Sr. Alice Bernadette, C.S., of taking the girl in 1971 to Rev. William Dowd, and restraining the girl while the priest raped her. Dowd denied the allegations. Garner died 12/17/14.

Sources:

Archbishop Peter Leo Gerety

Ordained: 1939
Status: Sued

Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Hartford CT priest, Portland ME auxiliary bishop 1966-69, then bishop 1969-74. Newark archbishop 1974-86. Died 9/20/16, age 104. Accused in a 3/21 lawsuit of sexually abusing a girl, age 5, several times in 1976. His accuser said she and her mother lived nearby and that Gerety offered to babysit, then molested her in his Cathedral bedroom. She said Gerety told her not to tell because it would hurt her mother. Accused in a lawsuit filed 11/16/21 of sexually abusing a girl over 5 years, beginning when she was age 5 in 1984, at the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart.

Sources:

Fr. William Giblin

Ordained: 1959
Status: Charges Dropped

Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Parish priest in early career in North Arlington and Rutherford NJ. At Seton Hall Prep 1961-88 as teacher, athletic director; headmaster 1969-80. Briefly assigned to parish in River Edge, then pastor of St. Joseph in East Orange 1989-00. Retired 7/00, lived and assisted at Holy Rosary in Edgewater until 2010. Arrested in Canada 7/02 with another priest in male prostitution sting allegedly involving minors. Placed on leave/retired by archdiocese. Charges against Giblin dropped 4/03 for lack of evidence; the other priest was convicted. Died 5/13/11. Former Seton Hall student filed suit, claiming abuse by Giblin and Rev. Robert Gibney in the 1960s. Suit ongoing in 10/17. On archdiocese's list 2/13/19.

Sources:

Fr. Robert G. Gibney

Ordained: 1954
Status: Settled

Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Died in 2012. Accused in a civil suit filed 8/7/14 of abusing a boy at Sacred Heart School and Parish in Vailsburg 1961-63. Settled in 11/14. A second man alleged abuse at St. Catherine's in Cedar Grove. Gibney's name included on archdiocese's list 2/13/19.

Assignments:

BA.org Assignment Record

Sources:

Fr. Augustine M. Giella

Ordained: 1950
Status: Settled

Died: 05/27/1993
Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Ordained for the Archdiocese of Newark NJ in 1950. Transferred to the Harrisburg PA in 1982. Retired in 1989; returned to NJ. Allegation in 1992 to the Harrisburg diocese that Giella had abused a child beginning in 1983. Arrested in NJ in 7/1992, indicted for child molestation and child porn. Pled not guilty to sex assault of an 11-year-old girl. Family filed lawsuit. He died in 5/1993, before he could be tried; suit settled with the diocese for $900K. Other women called news outlets saying they had been abused as minors in NJ in the 1960s by Giella. A PA woman filed suit in 2001; that and two other claims settled later in 2001. In 7/2018 two sisters alleging abuse through the 1980s by Giella asked a court to lift a gag order that was part of prior settlements with their other sisters. Accused of abuse of 5 girls in their family, one beginning at age 18 months. Name included on the Harrisburg diocese's list released 8/1/2018. On Newark's list 2/13/2019. The five sisters filed suit in 12/2019. Settlement of a claim in the low-to-mid six figures in 7/2023 that Giella sexually abused a boy, age 11-13, during 1984-1986. The abuse allegedly occurred at St. John the Evangelist Parish in Enhaut PA, where Giella was assigned.

Fr. Charles P. Granstrand

Ordained: 1966
Status: Accused

Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

In 9/10 Granstrand announced during services at Our Lady of Mercy that the Bergen County prosecutor's office had investigated allegations against him of sexual abuse of young children, but that there would be no criminal charges. The father of one man in his 20s told reporters that Granstrand molested his son and another boy in 1996, and that his son spiraled into drugs and trouble. Granstrand denied the allegations. Per the Our Lady of Mercy website in 5/20, Granstrand was on staff as pastor emeritus.

Assignments:

BA.org Assignment Record

Sources:

The Record 09.13.10
SNAP Statement 07.03.14

Fr. Alan Guglielmo

Ordained: 1968
Status: Accused

Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Named publicly as accused by the archdiocese on its list 2/13/19. One alleged victim noted. Permanently removed from ministry.

Sources:

Fr. Kevin A. Gugliotta

Ordained: 1996
Status: Convicted

Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Suspended in 2003. Accused of abusing a boy, age 16, in the 1980s, when he was a Boy Scout leader prior to ordination. Later sued. Not charged due to SOL. Reinstated in 12/04 without restrictions, including as a youth group chaplain in Scotch Plains. Arrested in NJ 10/20/16 on child porn charges in PA, where he stayed in apt a few times per week. Uploaded from his computer 20 child porn files to internet chat rooms. Had been removed from Holy Spirit in Union NJ earlier in the month due to investigation; "fugitive from justice." At parish just a few weeks, after 8 years at St. Bartholomew in Scotch Plains. Nationally ranked poker player. Pled guilty in 3/17. Sentenced in 8/17 to 11 and 1/2 to 23 and 1/2 months in prison; to register as a sex offender; 5 years probation. Said he uploaded the porn to get back at God as he wasn't winning poker tournaments. On archdiocese's list 2/13/19. Permanently removed from ministry. Accused in a 3/09 suit of abuse of an 11-year-old Scotch Plains boy in 2004. Suit in 4/21 claims abuse of boy, age 9, in 2006.

Fr. John J. Gurski

Ordained: 1964
Status: Sued

Died: 04/10/2009
Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Named publicly in 11/21 by Attorney Jeff Anderson as accused in a lawsuit filed under the NJ Victims' Rights Bill. Gurski died 4/10/09.

Sources:

Fr. Michael H. Hansen

Donate Photo

Ordained: 1967
Status: Settled

Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Accused in a lawsuit settled in 2020 in the high five figures of sexually abusing a boy, ages 14-15, in 1980-81 while assigned to Our Lady of Lourdes in West Orange. The suit was settled on behalf of the estate of the claimant, who died before the claim was resolved. Hanson died 8/14/12.

Assignments:

Garabedian Law Offices Assignment Record

Sources:

Fr. Bruce Harger

Ordained: 2001
Status: Accused

Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Resigned in 6/20 as pastor of Church of the Epiphany in Cliffside Park after an allegation that he abused a minor prior to ordination. Ordained in 2001 at age 47 after a career in music, including in Carmel CA, Washington DC and Switzerland. Studied theology in San Jose CA, New Orleans and News Jersey. Studied for the priesthood at Seton Hall University in NJ. Harger denied wrongdoing.

Sources:

NorthJersey com 06.30.20
Daily Voice 07.01.20

Fr. Charles W. Hartling

Ordained: 1979
Status: Accused

Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Became a Marist Brother in 1959. Taught at Roselle Catholic High School in Roselle NJ until 1976, then entered seminary in Darlington NJ. Assistant Program Director for Union County CYO Office; Coordinator of Crossroads Program. Ordained to priesthood 5/26/79. Assistant at Holy Parish in Union 1979-93; St. Elizabeth's in Wyckoff 1993-99; St. Mary's in Rutherford starting 1999, St. Mary's High faculty member. Retired 12/11. Died 6/25/12. Named publicly as accused by the archdiocese on its list 2/13/19. Multiple alleged victims noted.

Sources:

Br. Joseph Heeney

Donate Photo

Order: OSB
Status: Sued

Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Named publicly in 11/21 by Attorney Jeff Anderson as accused in a lawsuit filed under the NJ Victims’ Rights Bill.

Sources:

Jeff Anderson and Associates 11.18.21

Fr. Charles W. Herr

Donate Photo

Ordained: 1948
Status: Settled

Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Accused of sexually abusing a boy 1971-78, beginning when the boy was age 10. Herr was assigned his entire career, 1948-2000, to Ss. Peter and Paul in Hoboken, NJ. He died 12/15/07. A claim in the case was settled in 2/20 in the low six figures.

Assignments:

Garabedian Law Offices Assignment Record

Sources:

Garabedian Law Offices Assignment Record

Br. Jerome Heustis

Order: CFC
Status: Settled

Died: 02/18/2005
Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Entered the Christian Brothers in 1960, made final vows in 1967. Taught in Newark NJ, Chicago IL, Montebello and Salinas CA, Seattle WA. Accused of molesting a boy 1963-1967 at Essex Catholic High School in Newark. The boy died by suicide in 1978. The boy's cousin later filed a civil suit against the NY Archdiocese, Newark and and the order alleging abuse by several in the Order. Heustis died in 2/2005. Listed by the Edmund Rice Christian Brothers in 2014 as accused by at least two persons in claims settled in bankruptcy proceedings. Included in the 5/23/2023 IL Attorney General's Report, which notes at least two "reported survivors."

Sources:

Br. Andrew Thomas Hewitt

Order: CFC
Status: Convicted

Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Accused of abusing a male high school freshman with emotional problems. Civil suit filed in 8/88. Police investigated. Sentenced to five years probation in 4/89 and inpatient therapy in New Mexico. Order and archdiocese filed against insurance company. NJ Superior Court ruled 8/5/97 reversing lower court's order dismissing plaintiffs' claims and remanding. Died 5/22/02. Listed by the Edmund Rice Christian Brothers in 2014 as accused by at least two persons in claims settled in bankruptcy proceedings. Named in a suit filed in 7/20.

Sources:

Fr. Eugene P. Heyndricks

Ordained: 1981
Status: Convicted

Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Arrested 7/02 in male prostitution sting allegedly involving minors. Placed on leave by archdiocese. Pled guilty 2003. Sentenced to two years probation with no unsupervised contact with minors. Remained on leave as of 5/03. Apparently lived without restrictions at St. John Vianney Residence for Retired Priests in Rutherford, NJ for several years until his death 12/24/07. On archdiocese's list 2/13/19. Multiple victims noted. Suit filed in 1/20 by a man claiming Heyndricks abused him at age 14 in 1990, when he was an Our Lady of the Lake student and altar boy.

Sources:

Fr. Charles J. Hudson

Ordained: 1962
Status: Accused

Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Named publicly as accused by the archdiocese on its list 2/13/19. One alleged victim noted. Died 1/21/97.

Sources:

Br. Vincent Jerome

Order: FMS
Status: Settled

Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Associated with Marist Brothers' High School and Roselle Catholic High School. Taught in New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania and Japan. Last known to be living in 2008 at Marist Retirement Residence in Miami, FL. In 4/12 Attorney Mitchell Garabedian announced a recent settlement of at least one claim involving Jerome.

Sources:

Garabedian List via BishopAccountability 04.11.12

Br. James Richard Kelly

Order: CFC
Status: Sued

Died: 11/10/2017
Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Named publicly in 11/21 by Attorney Jeff Anderson as accused in a lawsuit filed under the NJ Victims' Rights Bill. Joined the Irish Christian Brothers in 1948 and professed final vows in 1956. Taught at schools in the Archdiocese of New York and in New Jersey, California and Canada. Principal of Bergen Catholic High in Oradell, New Jersey 1968-1974. Kelly died 11/10/17, at age 90.

Sources:

Fr. Stephen M. Kilcarr

Ordained: 1956
Status: Settled

Died: 06/22/2017
Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

In 2020 a man received a settlement from the Archdiocese through its IVCP, for claims that Kilcarr sexually abused him as a boy, ages 13-15, dozens of times in the rectory of St. Joseph's in West Orange in the 1960s. Accused in a press conference held by Attorney Mitchell Garabedian on 8/7/2019 of sexually abusing a second boy. Kilcarr moved to Seton Hall Prep in 1968, where he had close access to thousands of young boys for multiple decades. He died 6/22/2017.

Documents:

Sources:

Fr. John E. Komar

Ordained: 1964
Status: Arrested

Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Arrested in 2003 for viewing child porn on his work computer. He had been hospital chaplain at Englewood Hospital and Medical Center for 10 years. Hospital's computer technician noticed the websites in the computer history and notified police. Video showed Komar accessing the sites. Placed on leave. Living without restrictions at St. John Vianney Residence for Retired Priests in Rutherford, NJ for several years as of 11/13. On archdiocese's list 2/13/19. Deceased.

Sources:

Fr. Kevin Kortina

Donate Photo

Ordained: 1970
Status: Accused

Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Named publicly by the Newark archdiocese on its list 2/13/19. One alleged victim noted. Among assignments were Sacred Heart Cathedral in Newark, Our Lady of Lourdes in West Orange, Union Catholic Regional High School in Scotch Plains. Also worked in CA at DeLasalle HS in Concord, and St. Francis DeSales parish in San Bernardino. Deceased.

Sources:

Fr. Stanley S. Kostrzomb

Ordained: 1977
Status: Sued

Died: 12/22/2019
Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Named publicly in 11/21 by Attorney Jeff Anderson as accused in a lawsuit filed under the NJ Victims’ Rights Bill. Died 12/22/19.

Sources:

Fr. James F. Kuntz

Order: SJ
Ordained: 1977
Status: Guilty plea

Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Pleaded guilty in 9/2008 to possession of child pornography. Sentenced 2/18/2009 to 40 months in prison and 5 years' supervised release. Among assignments, Kuntz was at Regis High School in NYC 1983-1984 and 1988-1994. Principal 1984-1988 of St. Peter's Prep. Vice president for mission and ministry at St. Peter's College in Jersey City beginning in 8/2004. Included on the Northeast Province Jesuits list of credibly accused 1/15/2019.

Assignments:

Sources:

Fr. John J. Laferrera

Ordained: 1973
Status: Settled

Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

In 2009 a man told the archdiocese that he had been abused by Laferrera and Fr. T. Smith. Accusation dismissed as not credible. At least 11 other accusers came forward. Civil suit filed in 3/11 by four; four others later joined. Pastor of Saint Philomena's in Livingston when suit filed. Removed in 7/11 when he took voluntary leave. Denied charges. Allowed to retire with benefits as of 6/6/12. Six plaintiffs settled in 6/12 for $300K; privileges removed. Claims of two more plaintiffs were to be mediated. On archdiocese's list 2/13/19, noting multiple alleged victims. Permanently removed from ministry. Accused in a 7/20 lawsuit of participating with Cardinal McCarrick and other priests in a sex ring involving children. Reportedly in 11/21 there were three recent suits, one claiming abuse by Laferrera of a boy, age 15, at a Livingston parish in 2008 and 2009.

Sources:

Br. John Lawlor

Donate Photo

Order: CFC
Status: Settled

Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Listed by the Edmund Rice Christian Brothers' North American Province in 2014 as accused by at least two persons in claims settled in bankruptcy proceedings. No information given as to where or when the abuse occurred. Placing Lawlor in the Archdiocese of Newark for now, where the province is based.

Sources:

Irish Christian Brothers List 05.30.14

Fr. Joao Bosco Lima

Ordained: 1992
Status: Sued

Died: 07/23/2021
Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Named publicly in 11/21 by Attorney Jeff Anderson as accused in a lawsuit filed under the NJ Victims' Rights Bill. Died 7/23/21.

Sources:

Fr. Rene Cavalcanti de Lima

Order: SDV
Ordained: 1973
Status: Accused

Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Former member of the Society of Divine Vocations (Vocationists), became diocesan priest in native Brazil. In 8/18 a man told the archdiocese that Lima sexually abused him when he was a 13-year-old altar boy in the late 1980s at Immaculate Conception, and Lima was a fill-in for the pastor. Lima was assigned at the time to St. Michael's. The man said the abuse occurred over a year in the church, Lima's bedroom and and a trip to FL. Lima's accuser said he was informed by Newark archdiocese spokesman, James Goodness, that it was the Vocationists who were responsible to investigate, not the archdiocese. He said Lima left the order 20 years prior and was a priest in the Diocese of Guarulhos, Brazil. Investigate in 2009 for "relationship" with a youth at a Cocaia church. Still in active ministry in Brazil in 5/19.

Sources:

Br. Peter Louis

Donate Photo

Order: FMS
Status: Sued

Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Named publicly in 11/21 by Attorney Jeff Anderson as accused in a lawsuit filed under the NJ Victims’ Rights Bill.

Sources:

Jeff Anderson and Associates 11.18.21

Fr. Francis T. Maione

Ordained: 1965
Status: Accused

Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Named publicly as accused by the archdiocese on its list 2/13/19. One alleged victim noted. Permanently removed from ministry.

Sources:

Fr. Albert Mark

Donate Photo

Ordained: 1949
Status: Sued

Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

In 11/19 attorney Mitchell Garabedian announced he was preparing to file a lawsuit claiming that Mark, along with then Rev. and later Bishop Nicholas DiMarzio, repeatedly sexually abused an altar boy at St. Nicholas church and school in Jersey City in the mid-1970s.

Assignments:

BA.org Assignment Record

Sources:

Crux Now 11.13.19
Associated Press 11.13.20

Fr. Robert G. Marotta

Ordained: 1963
Status: Accused

Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Named publicly as accused by the archdiocese on its list 2/13/19. One alleged victim noted. Died 11/7/12.

Sources:

Fr. Kenneth L. Martin

Ordained: 1977
Status: Settled

Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Accused of abuse of two teen brothers at St. Andrew in Bayonne, starting in 1978. One told a priest in 1981 and auxiliary bishop Pichelli in 1983, but no action. Martin later held prominent position in diocese, then returned to parish ministry. The same victim went to Archbishop McCarrick with allegations in 1996 or 1997. Victim and family got small settlement. Martin was removed, later assigned as a hospital chaplain. Removed in 2002. Still a priest in 2013, without privileges, working as a train conductor for NJ Transit. He successfully sued to keep personnel file from being released in bankruptcy. On archdiocese's list 2/13/2019. Multiple alleged victims noted. Permanently removed from ministry. New suit in 7/2020 claims abuse of a boy 1981-1984 at St. Andrew's.

Assignments:

BA.org Assignment Record

Sources:

Deacon John R. McAulay

Donate Photo

Ordained: 1975
Status: Accused

Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Deacon. Named publicly as accused by the archdiocese on its list 2/13/19. One alleged victim noted. Permanently removed from ministry.

Sources:

Fr. William McCann

Ordained: 1925
Status: Accused

Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Monsignor. Named publicly as accused by the archdiocese on its list 2/13/19. Multiple alleged victims noted. Died 2/21/76.

Sources:

Fr. Horacio Daniel Medina

Donate Photo

Ordained: 1998
Status: Convicted

Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Native of Honduras, ordained for the Newark archdiocese. Quietly placed on leave in 2002. Arrested in 2004, charged with abuse of 14-year-old boy in 1999. Pled guilty in 2008. Sentenced to three years probation. Privileges withdrawn. Name became public 9/08 after "confidential" memo from archdiocese to all bishops warning them he had no privileges. Laicization announced 9/3/13. On archdiocese's list 2/13/19. Multiple victims noted.

Sources:

Fr. Maurice F. Meyers

Order: SJ
Status: Accused

Died: 01/24/1980
Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Named publicly as accused by the Jesuits Midwest Province on its list 12/17/2018. Multiple allegations of abuse, occurring while assigned to a scout camp during summers in Alpine NJ 1956-1977 (taught during the school year in Russia); while assigned to a Narrowsburg NY scout camp summer 1959 (taught during the school year at St. Ignatius College Prep in Chicago); and while at St. Ignatius College Prep in Chicago in 1964. Died 1/24/1980. Included in the 5/23/2023 IL Attorney General's Report.

Assignments:

Jesuits Midwest Province Assignment Record 12.21.18

Sources:

Fr. Richard J. Mieliwocki

Ordained: 1972
Status: Convicted

Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Allegation in 1994 of abuse of two youths in 1988. Placed on leave and ordered to undergo counseling. Disappeared. State counseling license suspended 1999 for improper behavior with minor. Arrested 2004 and accused of abuse of four teenage boys, ages 16-18, at in-patient substance abuse rehabilitation facility. Forced to surrender his license. Pled guilty in plea bargain to two counts 8/21/07. Sentenced 9/07 to 5 years probation and community service. Laicization announced 9/3/13. On archdiocese's list 2/13/19.

Sources:

Fr. William G. Mink

Ordained: 1971
Status: Sued

Died: 04/2/2020
Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Named publicly in 11/21 by Attorney Jeff Anderson as accused in a lawsuit filed under the NJ Victims’ Rights Bill. Mink left the priesthood at some point, married and raised a family. He died in 4/20.

Sources:

Fr. Robert J. Morel

Ordained: 1969
Status: Convicted

Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Placed on leave in 1993. Charged with criminal sexual contact for fondling a youth. Put his hands down the pants of the youth at a party in the rectory, celebrating Morel's elevation to Monsignor. Convicted in 1994. Sentenced to six months probation. A second accuser came forward with similar allegations. Also accused in a 1994 lawsuit of abusing a boy for eight years, beginning when the boy was age 9 in 1973 and ending in about 1981. Lived without restrictions at St. John Vianney Residence for Retired Priests in Rutherford, NJ for several years. Died 9/20/99. On archdiocese's list 2/13/19. Multiple victims noted.

Sources:

Deacon Thomas Mousley

Donate Photo

Ordained: 1976
Status: Accused

Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Deacon. Named publicly as accused by the archdiocese on its list 2/13/19. One alleged victim noted. Permanently removed from ministry.

Sources:

Fr. John Murphy

Donate Photo

Status: Sued

Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Named publicly in 11/21 by Attorney Jeff Anderson as accused in a lawsuit filed under the NJ Victims' Rights Bill. (There are multiple Newark priests with the name John Murphy-it is unclear which John Murphy has been accused.)

Sources:

Jeff Anderson and Associates 11.18.21

Fr. Anthony G. Nardino

Donate Photo

Ordained: 1973
Status: Sued

Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Accused in a lawsuit filed in 7/20 of "unpermitted sexual contact" with an 11-year-old boy in 1978. Nardino reportedly left the priesthood in the 1980s.

Sources:

Br. Dermod Nash

Donate Photo

Order: CFC
Status: Sued

Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Included on the order's list of former and deceased brothers with at least two claims of sexual abuse against them, as required by its bankruptcy settlement in 2014. No details provided as to when and where the alleged abuse occurred. Placing Nash in the Archdiocese of Newark, where the Irish Christian Brothers' North American Province is based. Nash is deceased.

Sources:

Irish Christian Brothers List 05.30.14

Fr. John P. Nickas

Ordained: 1966
Status: Settled

Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Died 10/09/08. A $75K settlement involving claims against Nickas announced 5/15/13. Accused of sex abuse of a boy on several occasions 1970-72, at St. Rocco's in Newark. Also accused of giving the boy alcohol. A second man alleged that he was molested as a child while staying at a Newark homeless shelter founded by Nickas. The diocesan review board deemed both allegations not credible. After the first settlement, attorney asked that this man's claims be re-investigated. On archdiocese's list 2/13/19. Multiple alleged victims noted.

Assignments:

BA.org Assignment Record

Sources:

Star-Ledger 10.18.08
Star-Ledger 05.15.13
The Record 05.16.13
SNAP Statement 09.06.13
Archdiocese of Newark List 02.13.19
Archdiocese of Newark Tobin Letter 02.13.19

Fr. Michael J. O’Brien

Donate Photo

Ordained: 1963
Status: Accused

Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Named publicly as accused by the Newark archdiocese on its list 2/13/2019. One alleged victim noted. Incardinated 1977 into the archdiocese. Deceased.

Sources:

Br. John L. O’Sullivan

Donate Photo

Order: CFC
Status: Sued

Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Accused in a lawsuit filed in 3/21 of sexually abusing a Bergen Catholic High School student in the early 1960s. O'Sullivan was the school's band moderator.

Sources:

The Record 03.25.21

Br. Timothy Joseph O’Sullivan

Order: CFC
Status: Settled

Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Included on Attorney Garabedian's list 3/28/16 of accused clerics named in civil claims resulting in settlements or arbitration awards. Allegedly abused a minor 1972-73 at Bergen Catholic High School in Oradell NJ. Another man claimed publicly in 10/16 that O'Sullivan abused him at the school when he was age 14 in the early 1970s. Settlement of $1.9M in 8/16 of suit with 21 men alleging Bergen High staff of sexual abuse when they were young. Seven more former students subsequently came forward as of 7/17, several vs O'Sullivan.

Sources:

Fr. Contardo Angelo Omarini

Order: OSPPE
Ordained: 1936
Status: Sued

Died: 11/4/1995
Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Per 4/18/13 news, a man stated in 2012 NJ SOL testimony that as a teenage boy he was repeatedly raped by Omarini, a Pauline Father, in the early- to mid-1960s. The boy was a parishioner at St. Bernard's church in Plainfield NJ, where Omarini said Mass in Italian on Sundays at least until 1977. The priest would travel from the Society of St. Paul's abbey and seminary on Staten Island in the NY archdiocese. He was assigned to the order's facility on Staten Island for his entire career, except for a two-year stint at St. Paul's Monastery in Canfield OH 1950-52. In Omarini's early years as a priest, the Society of St. Paul had a connection with nearby St. Rita's church on Staten Island. The complainant states that there were other victims and that Omarini abused in Plainville and also on Staten Island at the Society's abbey there. Omarini died 11/4/95. A lawsuit filed 7/13/20 claims abuse of three siblings at St. Bernard's in the late-1950s and early-1960s.

Assignments:

Detailed Bishop Accountability Assignment History

Sources:

Br. Ruben Mark Padilla

Donate Photo

Order: CFC
Status: Sued

Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Included on the order's list of former and deceased brothers with at least two claims of sexual abuse against them, as required by its bankruptcy settlement in 2014. No details provided as to when and where the alleged abuse occurred. Placing Padilla in the Archdiocese of Newark, where the Irish Christian Brothers' North American Province is based.

Sources:

Irish Christian Brothers 05.30.14

Fr. Robert J. Patterson

Ordained: 1958
Status: Settled

Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Accused in a lawsuit of sexually abusing a boy, age 10, in 1969 at Our Lady of Good Counsel. Settled in 5/20 in the mid-six figures. Died 1/18/08.

Assignments:

Garabedian Law Offices Assignment Record

Sources:

Bergen Record via NorthJerseycom 12.01.20

Fr. Keith F. Pecklers

Order: SJ
Ordained: 1991
Status: Settled

Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

In 12/2010 testimony before the NJ Senate Judiciary Committee a man said he was abused by Pecklers and then-deacon Thomas Stanford while a teenager in 1976 at St. Paul's in Jersey City. Pecklers was 17 or 18 himself at the beginning and was music director. The abuse occurred for almost a year. Pecklers went on to be a Jesuit scholar on staff at Pontifical Gregorian University Rome. His victim settled with the Diocese in 2008. When asked about the allegation, Pecklers said there was no abuse because he was a minor himself at the time. He remained an active priest as of 7/2014. Included on the Northeast Jesuits list of credibly accused 1/15/2019, which notes a report received in 2008 of abuse of a minor by Pecklers 1976-1977, prior to his entering the Jesuits. Ministry restricted in 2009.

Assignments:

Jesuits Northeast Province List 01.15.19

Sources:

Fr. Victor Phelan

Order: M Afr
Ordained: 1971
Status: Settled

Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Attorney Garabedian announced a settlement on behalf of one person in 9/13. Although Phelan spent most of his career in the African countries of Burkina Faso and Ghana as a member of the "White Missionaries," he was assigned for at least one year (1977) in Plainfield in the Newark Archdiocese. Not indexed in Official Catholic Directory after 1992.

Assignments:

BA.org Assignment Record

Sources:

The Republic (AP) 09.04.13
SNAP Statement 09.06.13

Fr. Silverius J. Quigley

Order: OCarm
Status: Sued

Died: 07/28/1960
Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Named publicly in 11/21 by Attorney Jeff Anderson as accused in a lawsuit filed under the NJ Victims' Rights Bill. Quigley was ordained in 1903 and died in 1960.

Sources:

Fr. Thomas H. Reilly

Ordained: 1929
Status: Accused

Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Named publicly as accused by the archdiocese on its list 2/13/19. One alleged victim noted. Deceased.

Sources:

Fr. Jesus Orlando Rengifo

Donate Photo

Ordained: 1984
Status: Accused

Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Named publicly as accused by the archdiocese on its list 2/13/19. One alleged victim noted. Permanently removed from ministry.

Sources:

Fr. Joseph P. Rice

Ordained: 1977
Status: Settled

Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Removed in 2002. Accused, along with two other priests, of abuse of teenage girl. No criminal charges filed, due to statute of limitations. Church found allegations credible. Allegations against Rice included in 10/04 settlement with Archdiocese. Living without restrictions at St. John Vianney Residence for Retired Priests in Rutherford, NJ for several years as of 11/13. On archdiocese's list 2/13/19. Multiple alleged victims noted. Died in 2014. New suit in 7/20 alleges abuse 1978-81 at St. John the Apostle in Linden. Accused in a claim settled in 2020 in the low six figures of sexually abusing an altar boy, ages 12-18, during 1978-85, while assigned to St. John the Apostle. The abuse included forced oral sex and forced sodomy.

Assignments:

Garabedian Law Offices Assignment Record

Sources:

Br. Donald Richard

Donate Photo

Order: SM
Status: Settled

Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Named publicly as accused by Attorney Mitchell Garabedian in 5/27. Allegedly sexually abused a girl, ages 15-17, 1986-88, while assigned to Roselle Catholic High School in Roselle NJ. The girl was a student. A claim in the case was settled in 2021 in the low six figures.

Assignments:

Law Offices of Mitchel Garabedian 05.27.21

Sources:

Law Offices of Mitchell Garabedian 05.27.21

Fr. Gerald P. Ruane

Ordained: 1960
Status: Sued

Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Accused in 2002 of abuse of a boy in the 1970s-80s. Deemed credible by archdiocese. Allowed to retire in 2004 without privileges. Name released in 2005 after he celebrated public mass. Died 8/15/15. On archdiocese's list 2/13/19. Multiple alleged victims noted. Accused in a 7/20 lawsuit of participating with Cardinal McCarrick and other priests in a sex ring involving children.

Sources:

Br. Peter Russell

Donate Photo

Order: CFX
Status: Sued

Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Worked at St. Joseph Regional High School in Montvale in the 1980s. Sued in 7/20, accused of sexual abuse of a boy, ages 14-17, from about 1980-83.

Sources:

NorthJerseycom 07.13.20

Fr. Mario Salazar

Donate Photo

Ordained: 1979
Status: Accused

Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Named publicly as accused by the archdiocese on its list 2/13/19. Multiple alleged victims noted. Deceased.

Sources:

Br. Robert Satterthwaite

Donate Photo

Order: CFC
Status: Sued

Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Included on the order's list of former and deceased brothers with at least two claims of sexual abuse against them, as required by its bankruptcy settlement in 2014. No details provided as to when and where the alleged abuse occurred. Placing Satterthwaite in the Archdiocese of Newark, where the Irish Christian Brothers' North American Province is based. Satterthwaite is deceased.

Sources:

Irish Christian Brothers List 05.30.14

Fr. Michael Scanlan

Order: TOR
Ordained: 1964
Status: Sued

Died: 01/7/2017
Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Took the name Theophane Scanlan upon ordination. Longtime president of Franciscan University of Steubenville. Leader in the Charismatic Renewal movement. Died in 2017. Accused in a lawsuit filed in 2020 of sexually abusing a boy, age 9, in 1978. The abuse allegedly occurred at a People of Hope (Charismatic community) gathering at St. Antoninus Parish in Newark, NJ, and on multiple other occasions when Scanlan would visit the NJ parish. The boy and his mother and brothers were living in the parish rectory. Scanlan has also been accused of covering up for credibly accused priest Samuel Tiesi, T.O.R.

Documents:

Plaintiff v St. Antoninus Church et al 12.17.20

Sources:

Fr. Paul D. Schetelick

Ordained: 1976
Status: Sued

Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Monsignor. Named publicly in 11/21 by Attorney Jeff Anderson as accused in a lawsuit filed under the NJ Victims' Rights Bill.

Sources:

Jeff Anderson and Associates 11.18.21

Sr. Eileen Shaw

Order: SC
Status: Settled

Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Accused in 1994 of sexually abusing a girl, beginning in 1968 when the girl was age 15 and continuing until 1992. Shaw's alleged victim said that the nun plied her with drugs and alcohol. Order provided therapy and settled with the woman for $70K. Shaw was removed as principal of elementary school. In 2004 she was working as administrator of the Caritas Community in Jersey City, a retirement home for nuns. In 1/19 she reportedly was still with the Sisters of Charity and restricted from outside ministry. Shaw's accuser also alleges sexual abuse by her uncle, Fr. Daniel Millard, for 8 years beginning when she was age 5.

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Sister Alice Bernadette

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Order: SC
Status: Sued

Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Sister of Charity of St. Elizabeth in Morris Township, NJ. Accused, along with Sr. Maria Michael Garner, C.S., of restraining a 10-year-old girl at Immaculate Conception School in 1971 while Rev. William Dowd raped her. Dowd denied the allegations. Sr. Alice Bernadette is reportedly deceased.

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Sister Andre

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Order: OP
Status: Accused

Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Accused in 1967 of sexually abusing a girl. beginning in 1965, when the girl was 12. Her parents met with the Order's mother superior, who at first didn't believe the accusation. Letters from Sr. Andre to the girl and the nun's journals confirmed the accusations. Sr. Andre had worked in two other dioceses before Newark and was transferred to CT in 1967. The church paid for the girl's counseling; she died by suicide in 1989.

Sources:

Times of Acadiana 08.07.02

Sister Regina

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Order: CSAC
Status: Sued

Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Two men filed civil suit in 2005 alleging abuse by nuns at Sacred Heart Orphanage in NJ in early 1940s. One man said he was abused by Sister Regina. She and most of other nuns who served at the orphanage are deceased. In 1990 both plaintiffs were in their 80s. In 2009, Court denied a motion by Order on limitations, ruing that the lawsuit could proceed.

Sources:

Star Ledger 10.03.09

Fr. Carmen Sita/Gerald Howard

Ordained: 1976
Status: Convicted

Died: 09/19/2021
Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Also known as Gerald Howard. Arrested in 1982; pleaded guilty in 1983 to abuse of a minor and providing him with drugs. Sentenced to five years probation and treatment at Servants of the Paracletes in NM. Legally changed his name to Gerald Howard. Incardinated into the Jefferson City MO diocese; assigned to a parish with a school. Reportedly had no clerical assignments since removal from active ministry in 1984. Accused in 2007 of abusing another boy. Claim settled in 2009 for $600K and agreement to laicize. Other victims in NJ and MO. Arrested in 4/2010 in NJ and later in MO. Jailed until MO criminal trial. Settlement of five claims in 2013 for $650K. Pleaded guilty 6/17/2014 to two counts of forcible sodomy and one count of attempted forcible sodomy against three teenage boys. Other counts dropped. To serve three concurrent twelve-year sentences and register as sex offender when released. Laicized 9/24/2012, announced 6/18/2014. On Jefferson City diocese's list 11/8/2018. On Newark list 2/13/2019. Died 9/19/2021. Named in a lawsuit filed 9/12/2024.

Assignments:

BA.org Assignment Record

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Fr. William R. Smalley

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Ordained: 1955
Status: Sued

Died: 04/5/2000
Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Named publicly in 11/21 by Attorney Jeff Anderson as accused in a lawsuit filed under the NJ Victims’ Rights Bill. Died 4/5/00.

Documents:

Jeff Anderson and Associates 11.18.21

Fr. Leonard P. Spanburgh

Ordained: 1959
Status: Settled

Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Accused in a claim filed with the NJ Independent Victim Compensation Program of sexually abusing an altar boy, about ages 9-13, in 1970-73. Spanburgh was assigned to St. Catherine of Sienna in Cedar Grove during the time of the alleged abuse. Settled in the high five figures in 2/20. Spanburgh had been a Boy Scouts chaplain. Died in 1983.

Assignments:

Garabedian Law Offices Assignment Record

Sources:

Bergen Record via NorthJerseycom 12.01.20

Fr. Thomas A. Stanford

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Ordained: 1979
Status: Settled

Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

In 12/10 testimony before the NJ Senate Judiciary Committee, a man said he was abused by Stanford (also spelled Stamford), while a teenager in 1977 at St. Paul's in Jersey City. Stanford was a deacon at the time, prior to ordination to the priesthood. The man said he told Stanford about previous abuse by another teenager (later a Jesuit priest) and that Stanford used drugs and alcohol to abuse him for another three years. Plaintiff settled with the archdiocese in 2008. Stanford left the priesthood in the mid-1980s. He worked as lay employee for the Paterson Diocese until fired after the settlement. On Newark archdiocese's list 2/13/19. Multiple alleged victims noted. Permanently removed from ministry.

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Fr. Edward J. Stanley

Ordained: 1931
Status: Accused

Died: 05/8/1985
Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Named publicly as accused by the archdiocese on its list 3/19/19. One alleged victim noted. Died in 1985.

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Fr. Robert Stauffer

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Ordained: 1964
Status: Accused

Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Named publicly as accused by the archdiocese on its list 2/13/19. One alleged victim noted. Permanently removed from ministry.

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Br. Michael E. Stoyles

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Order: CFC
Status: Sued

Died: 02/4/1991
Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Included on the order's list of former and deceased brothers with at least two claims of sexual abuse against them, as required by its bankruptcy settlement in 2014. No details provided as to when and where the alleged abuse occurred. Placing Stoyles in the Archdiocese of Newark, where the Irish Christian Brothers' North American Province is based. Stoyles was born 12/30/1903 and died 2/4/1991.

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Fr. Gerard J. Sudol

Ordained: 1980
Status: Settled

Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

"Father Gerry." Hospital Chaplain 1995-2002. Removed in 2002 after an allegation of sexual misconduct. At least one claim was included in a $1.9M settlement involving 9 priests and the archdiocese in 10/2004. Acquitted after a canonical trial and assigned to work at a hospice. In residence in 12/2017 at a Jersey City parish. "Stepped down" pending investigation in 8/2018 after an accusation that he sexually abused an altar boy while assigned to a Ridgefield Park parish in the 1980s and 1990s. One accuser said in 8/2018 that some of Sudol's victims later died by suicide. Included on the archdiocese's list 2/13/2019 (as "Gerald"). Multiple alleged victims noted. Permanently removed from ministry. Suits filed in early 2020 claim abuse of boys at two churches in Wallington and Nutley, starting prior to ordination. Suit filed in 7/2020 claims abuse of a Ridgefield Park boy 1988-1994. Settlement in the low five figures in 2020 of a claim of abuse in 1985 of a girl, age 13. By 11/2021 Sudol was accused in 7 lawsuits, one of abuse of a boy, ages 7-11 during 1996-2000, at Sacred Heart in Wallington. Living in 11/2021 in PA.

Assignments:

Garabedian Law Offices Assignment Record

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Fr. Robert T. Svec

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Ordained: 1954
Status: Accused

Died: 08/25/1985
Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Named publicly as accused by the archdiocese on its list 2/13/19. Multiple alleged victims noted. Died in 1985.

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Fr. George Trabold

Ordained: 1973
Status: Settled

Died: 04/17/2022
Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Monsignor. Placed on leave in in 10/14 due to an allegation that he sexually abused a boy in the mid-1970s while assigned to a Bergenfield parish. His accuser received a settlement in 2016. The archdiocese deemed the allegation credible. Canonical process initiated in 2015 was ongoing in 2/19. Trabold died 4/17/22.

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Fr. Peter M. Walsh

Order: OFM
Ordained: 1982
Status: Convicted

Died: 07/29/2008
Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Arrested 1993 in NJ for exposing himself to five boys. Convicted in 1994 on five counts of child endangerment in Lyndhurst NJ. Sentenced to five years probation; ordered to have a chaperone whenever he was in a car. In 6/2004 a man reported to the Manchester NH diocese that Walsh fondled then masturbated him for 3-4 months between 1987-1988. Walsh was assigned to St. Thomas Aquinas in Derry at the time. Walsh denied these allegations. Said to have died in Honduras 7/29/2008.

Assignments:

Diocese of Manchester List 07.31.19

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Fr. Michael Walters

Ordained: 1965
Status: Settled

Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

"Mitch." Allegations to archdiocese in 8/15 that Walters abused a boy and a girl in the early 1980s while assigned to St. Cassian in Montclair. Not suspended until 10/15. One accuser said Walters fondled and kissed him repeatedly as a 12-year-old altar boy in 1982; the other claimed Walters molested her at ages 13-14. Walters denied the accusations. Another woman publicly accused Walters of molesting her twice when she was age 13. Criminal investigation underway 7/16 of allegations he sexually abused a boy in the 1990s at St. John Nepomuce in Guttenberg. This accuser filed suit 8/17/16. His attorney said he was representing six Walters victims allegedly abused 1982-94, ages 8-14. Two more suits filed 10/16. Judge in 10/17 found probable cause to file charges. Five cases settled in 1/19. On archdiocese's list 2/13/19. Permanently removed from ministry. Accused in a 7/20 lawsuit of participating with Cardinal McCarrick and other priests in a sex ring involving children.

Fr. Allen Weber

Order: OFM
Ordained: 1965
Status: Sued

Died: 12/25/2015
Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Named publicly in 11/21 by Attorney Jeff Anderson as accused in a lawsuit filed under the NJ Victims' Rights Bill.

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Fr. Edward F. Wojtycha

Ordained: 1938
Status: Accused

Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Accused publicly in 10/20 by a 45-year-old man of sexually abusing him as a child for years, beginning at age 7. The alleged victim said that he was also abused by Rev. Kenneth L. Martin, who had promised to protect him from Wojtycha. Instead, both priests allegedly abuse him at St. Andrew's parish in Bayonne, at hotels, and at a Jersey Shore house. The abuse is said to have included beatings, psychological torture and sodomy. Parish priest at St. Vincent de Paul in Bayonne 1938-63, pastor of Our Lady of Mercy in Jersey City 1963-70, and St. Andrew's in Bayonne 1970-85. Elevated to Monsignor in 1983. Auxiliary Naval chaplain. Held chancery positions and received numerous honors. Lead a drum and bugle corp 1940s-60s. Retired in 1985 to the Palm Beach FL diocese. Died 6/8/09.

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Fr. Benedict Worry

Order: OSB
Ordained: 1987
Status: Settled

Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Initially was"Bro. Michael" with Brothers of the Holy Rosary (F.S.R.). Worked in Reno diocese; taught at Manogue High School 1974-78, directed CYO program. Ordained a Benedictine priest in 1987. Taught at Delbarton School in NJ for 18 years. In 6/12 a man joined in an existing suit against Delbarton School to allege abuse in 1980s by Worry. A 2015 lawsuit settled. Worry had been removed from assignment in 1/12 and sent to St. Mary's Abbey after allegation of misconduct in the 1990s. Said to be under strict supervision. Accused in a lawsuit against the Delbarton School filed in 7/20 under the NJ Child Sexual Abuse Act of abusing a 15-year-old boy 1978-79. Reportedly still living on campus in 7/20.

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Fr. Robert E. Zasacki

Ordained: 1967
Status: Accused

Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Ordained for Newark. Sent to MN in 1980 for alcoholism treatment. Ministered in the Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis; incardinated there in 1987. Permanently removed from ministry in 2002 due to allegation of abuse of a youth in the early 1970s in Newark. Died in 3/08 at age 67. Name included on the St. Paul and Minneapolis archdiocese's list of credibly accused in 12/13. On Newark archdiocese's list 2/13/19.

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Fr. Peter F. Zemeikis

Ordained: 1957
Status: Sued

Died: 12/8/2015
Diocese: Archdiocese of Newark NJ

Named publicly in 11/21 by Attorney Jeff Anderson as accused in a lawsuit filed under the NJ Victims’ Rights Bill. Retired in 1990, per his obituary. Left the priesthood and married. Died 12/8/15.

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