Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA - BishopAccountability.org

148 Accused in This Diocese

Fr. Edward V. Avery

Ordained: 1970
Status: Convicted

Accused of abuse of 16-year-old boy in 1978. Denied abuse; said he didn't know of allegations until 1992. Removed in 1993; reassigned as hospital chaplain. Placed on leave again in 2003. Laicization announced 3/06. Named in new Grand Jury Report on 2/10/11. Accused, along with another priest and a teacher, of abuse of 10-year- old boy in 1998 at St. Jerome. Admitted guilt 3/22/12 just before trial. Sentenced to 2 1/2 to 5 yrs prison. New suits filed in 7/11 and 9/12. Recanted confession in 1/13.

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Fr. William G. Ayres

Ordained: 1999
Status: Sued

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Removed from assignments at two parishes in 11/10 after allegations that he had molested a minor in the late 1990s while at St. Charles Borromeo Seminary. Matter referred to District Attorney. Ayres was staying at a home for retired priests during investigation. Civil suit filed in 10/11 accused Ayers of abusing another youth while a seminarian, 1996 through 1999 at Incarnation of Our Lord Parish in Philadelphia.

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Fr. Philip R. Barr

Ordained: 1948
Status: Accused

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Retired 1995. One of 21 priests placed on administrative leave by archdiocese 3/7/11 pending investigation for credible allegations involving sexual abuse or inappropriate behavior with minors. Last assignment was as pastor emeritus of St. Edmond Parish in South Philadelphia. On 5/4/12, Archdiocese found allegations unsubstantiated and he was found suitable for ministry. Died 11/27/14.

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Fr. James J. Behan

Order: OSFS
Ordained: 1973
Status: Convicted

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Placed on leave in 4/02 by Raleigh bishop after "credible allegation" of abuse 25 years prior. Behan admitted to the allegations in 2005; convicted and sentenced to 12 years probation. The abuse occurred 1978-1980, when Behan was a Northeast Catholic High teacher in Philadelphia. His victim was a 15-year-old boy and freshman at the school when the abuse began. Incidents took place in the rectory of a Germantown parish and on trips to North Carolina and Quebec. Behan worked in Raleigh 1980-2002. He was the only priest indicted by the Philly Grand Jury. On MD sex offender registry 7/10. On Raleigh diocese's list in 10/18.

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Fr. Michael C. Bolesta

Ordained: 1989
Status: Accused

Died: 01/2/2004
Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Accused of abuse of at least 11 boys, ages 16-17, in 1990-1991. Evaluated at St. Luke Institute. Reassigned. Died in 1/2004. Name included on a secret 1994 memo from Wm. Lynn to Msgr. James Molloy (released 2/27/2012) regarding priests in secret archives who were accused of sexual misconduct with a minor with no conclusive evidence. The Archdiocese later said the allegations were credible.

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Fr. John F. Bowe

Ordained: 1973
Status: Accused

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

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Background on Priest from Archdiocese of Philadelphia 7.6.12

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Fr. H. Cornell Bradley

Order: SJ
Ordained: 1969
Status: Accused

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Removed from ministry in 1/2006. Name released in 1/2007 when the Order admitted that he had engaged in "sexual misconduct" with an adult woman in the early 1980s in Baltimore. Another 2006 allegation involved a minor at Gonzaga College High School in Washington DC in 1973. First two allegations involving minors were made in 1993; reported to have sexually abused two boys, age 15, between 1968 and 1988. Sent for treatment and returned to ministry by the Order in 1995. Assigned to St. Joseph University as campus minister and basketball team chaplain until 1/2006. Also worked in NC, Philadelphia and India. Five more complaints received as of 3/2007. On the Jesuits' MD Province list in 12/2018. Left the Order in 2007. Police report filed in Charlotte NC 3/5/2019 by a man alleging Bradley and Fr. Damian Lynch each abused him as a teen in NC in the 1990s. Added to Baltimore archdiocese's list in 2/2019. On Charlotte diocese's list 12/29/2019. Included in the 4/5/23 MD Attorney General's Report.

Bishop Michael J. Bransfield

Ordained: 1971
Status: Settled

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Named Wheeling-Charleston bishop 2005. Accused of abuse of boys in testimony in 4/12 trial of Lynn/ Brennan in PA. Bransfield denied. Resigned 9/13/18 after Pope ordered investigation into allegations of sexual harassment of adults and financial misdoings. Ministry restricted 3/19. Suit filed 3/22 by former personal altar server and secretary claimed Bransfield sexually harassed him for years and sexually assaulted him in 2014. Also, that he sexually abused J.E. and other adolescent and adult males, and diocese was aware in 2007 but no action. Settled 8/19. In 6/19 diocese said Bransfield sexually harassed young priests and misused funds. Gave large sums of money to cardinals, bishops and priests over the years. In 7/18 Pope said Bransfield must make amends, can't live in the diocese or celebrate liturgy publicly. Suit filed 9/19 by recent seminarian. Allegation 10/19 of inappropriate touch in 2012 of a 9-year-old girl. He denied.

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Fr. James J. Brennan

Ordained: 1989
Status: Convicted

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Accused in 1/06 of abuse 8 years prior; removed. Permanently removed 8/06, case referred to Vatican. Named in Philadelphia Grand Jury report 2/10/11. Charged in 2/11 with attempted rape of a 14-year-old boy in 1996, whose report led to Brennan's 2006 removal. Denied guilt. Tried with Msgr. Lynn, who was charged with child endangerment. Jury deadlocked on Brennan 6/22/12. Lynn convicted. Retrial of Brennan scheduled and delayed several times. Brennan freed on bail. In a 10/16 plea deal, pled no contest to second-degree misdemeanor assault. Given two years' probation. Laicization pending.

Fr. Robert L. Brennan

Ordained: 1964
Status: Settled

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Many complaints about inappropriate or suspicious behavior with more than 20 boys dating to 1988. Remained active as chaplain at a nursing home for nuns until the 2005 Grand Jury Report. Removed by the Archdiocese. Additional complaint, of abuse in the 1960s, was substantiated; placed on permanent leave in 8/2007. Laicized in 2017. New suit in 5/2011. Included on a secret Archdiocesan list in 1994. Arrested 9/25/2013 after a report of abuse for four years in the late 1990s of a boy, beginning when the boy was age 11. Released on bail. Charges dropped. The alleged victim died 10/16/2013 at age 26 of a drug overdose. Family filed a civil suit in 11/2013. Settled in 6/2018. Arrested in 9/2019, charged with lying to the FBI when he said he didn't know the victim who had died or his family. Pleaded guilty in 11/2021. Sentenced in 3/2022 to five years probation.

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Archdiocese of Philadelphia Assignment Record

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Fr. Leonard W. Broughan

Order: OCarm
Ordained: 1955
Status: Accused

Died: 12/24/1998
Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Ordained for the Archdiocese of Philadelphia. Joined the Carmelite order in 1984. Accused of abuse of two youths. Archdiocese notified in 1993 and 1995. Assigned as a Carmelite in NJ and Niagara Falls, Ontario. Died in 1998.

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Fr. Craig F. Brugger

Ordained: 1973
Status: Accused

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Accused in 2002 of the sexual abuse of a 15-year-old boy in 1974. Also accused of receiving porn in 1989. Placed on leave 2002. Matter sent to Vatican. Laicization announced 6/06. Died 9/4/10. Accused in lawsuit of abuse of a boy 1972-76, ending when the boy was age 12. The boy was a St. Anne's in Phoenixville parishioner. The abuse allegedly occurred in Chester County, at the boy's parents' beach house in Brigantine and other NJ locations. The boy reportedly told the parish pastor who said "these things did not happen" and not to speak of it. Also, after a nun got involved Brugger was moved to another parish.

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Fr. James J. Brzyski

Ordained: 1977
Status: Sued

Died: 09/13/2017
Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Accused of abuse of at least one boy in 1980s per 6/2006 class action suit. Philly Grand Jury report referred to him as one of the diocese's most brutal abusers. May have abused over 100. Removed 1984; left active ministry 1985. Laicized 3/21/2005. Suit in 2006 dismissed 11/2007. Name on secret 1994 memo from Wm. Lynn to Msgr. James Molloy (released 2/27/2012) as "diagnosed pedophile." Reportedly moved around in later years through VA, WI, CA then TX. Found living in Dallas, TX 1/2014, always surrounded by boys. Found dead in a Ft. Worth TX motel 9/13/2017, surrounded by pills and bottles of vodka. Several known suicides of victims. Suit 12/2019 claiming abuse of boy 1978-1982 .

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Fr. George B. Cadwallader

Ordained: 1992
Status: Accused

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

One of 21 priests placed on administrative leave by the Philadelphia archdiocese 3/7/11 pending investigation of credible allegations involving sexual abuse or inappropriate behavior with minors. Last assignment was as parochial vicar of St. Vincent de Paul Parish in Richboro. In 5/12, archdiocese found allegations of violation of Standards of Ministerial Behavior to be substantiated. Found unsuitable for ministry.

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Fr. Raymond J. Cahill

Donate Photo

Ordained: 1947
Status: Accused

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Name is included on a secret 1994 memo from Wm. Lynn to Msgr. James Molloy (released 2/27/12) regarding priests in secret archives who were accused of sexual misconduct with a minor but for whom no conclusive evidence was found. Cahill died 1/21/91.

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Fr. Hugh P. Campbell

Ordained: 1961
Status: Accused

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Msgr. Campbell retired from Saint Maximilian Kolbe, West Chester, in 2007 and moved into a private residence. In 12/11, he "self-reported sexual abuse of a minor" approximately 40 years previously. Placed on leave. On 5/20/12, the archdiocese announced it had found him not suitable for ministry. Campbell accepted a supervised life of prayer and penance. Died 2/13/16.

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Fr. John A. Cannon

Ordained: 1948
Status: Sued

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Removed 2003. Accused of abuse of at least two youths in late 1950s and 1960s. By 1964, at least six boys had complained to the Archdiocese that Cannon would sneak into their cabins at camp in the night and molest them. Civil suits filed 2004. As of 2/05, his ministry had been permanently restricted and he was living a life of prayer & penance. Named in 2006 suit which was dismissed by court. Appeal rejected by 3rd Circuit Court of Appeals 11/07. On 1994 secret list. Died 5/31/17.

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Fr. Paul A. Castellani

Ordained: 1996
Status: Reinstated

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

One of 21 priests placed on administrative leave by the Philadelphia archdiocese 3/7/2011 pending investigation for credible allegations involving sexual abuse or inappropriate behavior with minors. Last assignment was as pastor of St. Philomena Church in Lansdowne. Per a 7/6/2012 announcement, Castellani was found suitable for ministry after the diocese determined the allegations were unsubstantiated.

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Background Information on Priest by Archdiocese of Philadelphia 7.6.12

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Fr. Pasquale R. Catullo

Ordained: 1963
Status: Prayer & penance

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Accused in 1969 of abuse of a female high school student. He self-reported the incident and requested a transfer. The Archdiocese knew of the abuse but continued to reassign him for 15 years. In late 2004, Catullo agreed to permanent removal of his faculties and a supervised life of prayer and penance. The Archdiocese found allegations credible. Catullo's name is included on a secret 1994 memo from Fr. Wm. Lynn to Msgr. James Molloy (released 2/27/2012) regarding priests in secret archives who were guilty of sexual misconduct with minors.

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Fr. Gerard W. Chambers

Ordained: 1934
Status: Sued

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Three brothers sued in 2004 alleging abuse by Chambers in 1954. Another 2004 suit alleged abuse of one youth. At least two other alleged victims known. Died 1974. During forty years as priest, was on "health leave" seven times.

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Philadelphia Archdiocesan Priest Data Profile

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Fr. Michael A. Chapman

Ordained: 1982
Status: Accused

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

One of 21 priests placed on leave 3/7/11 after allegations involving minors. Was living at Ascension of Our Lord in Philadelphia when removed. Archdiocese said in 5/12 that allegations were unsubstantiated; found suitable to return to ministry. New allegation received in 5/12 of abuse 30 years prior. Again placed on leave in 9/12. Found by review board in 12/13 to be unsuitable for ministry. Permanently barred.

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Fr. Arthur B. Chappell

Order: OSA
Ordained: 1969
Status: Accused

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Chair of Villanova University's Theology Dept. Resigned in 5/03 amid allegations that he sexually abused a teenage seminary student 1975-76. Chappell was the youth's spiritual advisor. The alleged victim reported abuse in 1977 to a Villanova psychologist who told the Order. The Order counseled Chappell at the time but no written record of the complaint was made and no other actions were taken. Beginning in 2005 he was working as executive director of Augustinian Press.

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Fr. John A. Close

Ordained: 1969
Status: Settled

Died: 03/6/2018
Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Monsignor. One of 21 priests placed on leave by archdiocese 3/7/2011 pending investigation for credible allegations involving sexual abuse or inappropriate behavior with minors. Last served as pastor at St. Katharine of Siena in Wayne. In 1998, a man who was in prison for murder accused Close of abusing him as a boy on several occasions in 1969-1970. No action. Close denied the allegations. In 4/2011, another man claimed abuse in 1992-1994. Found suitable for ministry 7/6/2012 after the Review Board determined misconduct claims against him were unsubstantiated. Died 3/6/2018. In 8/2023 the Archdiocese agreed to a $3.5M settlement with a man, age 30, who claimed Close sexually assaulted him at age 14 in 2006. The man said the rape occurred during confession at St. Katherine's of Sienna, and that Close threatened him with eternal damnation if he told.

Fr. Richard J. Cochrane

Order: OSA
Ordained: 1972
Status: Convicted

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Arrested in 1999 for assault of a 14-year-old boy during a trip to the Poconos. Cochrane was a teacher at Malvern Prep School. Another person came forward to allege the same type of abuse in 1990. Pleaded no contest to statutory rape charge in 1/03 regarding the first boy after PA appellate court ruled that the second student could testify at trial. Sentenced in 7/03 to 18-48 months in jail. In 7/03, the archdiocese settled a civil suit filed by the first youth. New suit 2/14/11.

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Fr. James J. Collins

Ordained: 1964
Status: Accused

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Placed on administrative leave without privileges 5/26/13 after an allegation that he sexually abused a minor approximately 40 years prior. Taught at Holy Family University from 1976 to retirement in 2013 and was living at St Martha's rectory. Archdiocese investigated and said this was the first allegation against Collins. Matter reported to the police. May have been working at Roman Catholic High School for Boys during time of alleged abuse. Found Not Suitable for Ministry 02/23/14 and permanently removed.

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Deacon Michael F. Conroy

Ordained: 1994
Status: Accused

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Deacon. Assigned to Sacred Heart in Royersford 6/94-10/02, when he was removed from ministry due to "known sexual misconduct involving a minor." In 3/07 the archdiocese announced Conroy's laicization.

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Philadelphia Archdiocesan Priest Data Profile

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Archdiocese of Philadelphia 03.08.07

Fr. James J. Coonan

Ordained: 1965
Status: Accused

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Accused 1/22/2002 of abusing two boys, ages 14 and 15, in 1966 or 1967. After a 2-year term as pastor 1983-1985 and a 3-year demotion, Coonan was a U.S. Air Force chaplain 1988-1996, after which he worked in a parish and as a hospital chaplain. Restricted in 1/2002 to saying mass privately. Retired 2/26/2002. Evaluated at St. John Vianney Hospital in 3/2002. Additional restrictions were placed on his ministry 9/10/2004. Faculties removed 10/8/2004; supervised.

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Philadelphia Archdiocesan Priest Data Profile

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Br. George A. Costigan

Order: FSC
Ordained: 1974
Status: Accused

Died: 09/21/2015
Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Also known as Br. Daniel Eliseus. Left the Christian Bros; ordained in 1974 and incardinated into the Paterson NJ diocese. Accused 1993 of sexually abusing a girl, ages 9-15, starting in the mid-1960s when he was a Christian Brother at West Catholic Boys High School in the Philadelphia archdiocese. Worked as a hospital chaplain. Retired in 1993; lived at a convent attached to a youth retreat center. No privileges. Named auxiliary contract chaplain in 2006. Presented himself as an active priest in 2007 and 1/2009. Died in 9/2015. Included on the Paterson diocese's list 2/13/2019 which notes one allegation. Also noted to have been removed from ministry 4/28/1994. Included on the Diocese of Tucson's list.

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Fr. Nicholas V. Cudemo

Ordained: 1963
Status: Sued

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Accused of abuse of 11-16 young girls in the 1960s and '70s. Archdiocese first learned of abuse in 1991. Sued in 1992. Placed on leave 1996. Laicized 3/21/05. Named in Grand Jury report 2/10/11. Cardinal Bevilacqua admitted in 2003 deposition that Cudemo was allowed to remain active because a priest "has rights"; "If we tried to remove him, he could bring action." Named as diagnosed pedophile in secret 1994 memo from Wm. Lynn to Msgr. Molloy (released 2/27/12). Discussed in testimony in 2012 trial of Msgr. Lynn.

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Philadelphia Archdiocese Assignment Record

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Fr. William E. Dean

Ordained: 1976
Status: Accused

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

In 10/20 the archdiocese announced that Dean had been found unsuitable for ministry, due to an allegation received in 10/19, found substantiated, of the sexual abuse of a minor in the 1970s. Dean was assigned to SS. Philip & James in Exton at the time of the abuse. No criminal charges due to the statute of limitations. Had been chaplain and in residence since 2012 at a retirement home for nuns in Malvern. In 10/20 he had been moved to a place for priests in a prayer and penance program.The diocese had also received a report in 2014 of possible inappropriate behavior with a minor at SS. Philip & James; unclear if same victim. Archdiocese decided after the 2014 report to limit Dean's ministry.

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Catholic Philly 10.09.20

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Fr. John J. Delli Carpini

Ordained: 1976
Status: Accused

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

In 3/1998 the Archdiocese received an allegation that Delli Carpini sexually abused a boy 1977-1983, beginning when the boy was 13. Placed on leave, sent to St. John Vianney Hospital for evaluation. Returned to ministry in 9/1998 as chaplain for a senior sisters residence and part-time at Archdiocesan headquarters. In 3/2002 an allegation surfaced that Delli Cabrini sexually abused a boy for four years prior to seminary, beginning when the boy was 9. Removed from chaplaincy. Placed on leave again in 4/2004, further restrictions in 9/2004. Laicization announced in 2005.

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Philadelphia Archdiocesan Priest Data Profile

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Fr. Edward M. DePaoli

Ordained: 1970
Status: Convicted

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Convicted in 1986 of possession of child porn. Received a one-year suspended sentence. Continued "extremely restricted ministry" until 2002 but did more than allowed because of "communications breakdown." Accused in 2002 of abuse of a 14-year-old girl in 1970. Placed on leave. Allegations found credible in 2004. Laicized 8/11/04. Nun testified in Msgr. Lynn trial 4/12 that she was fired after she sent one of his porn magazines to then-Cardinal Anthony Bevilacqua.

Fr. Joseph L. DiGregorio

Ordained: 1966
Status: Accused

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Per the 2011 Grand Jury Report II, a woman reported in 2005 that DiGregorio sexually abused her in 1967 or 1968 at Our Lady of Loretto in Philadelphia when she was 16. The Review Board found the allegation to be credible but reversed itself in 2006. Placed on leave from job as parochial vicar at Stella Maris Rectory after release of Grand Jury Report. He denied all allegations. Reinstated in 10/12. Board said he violated priestly conduct standards but was eligible to return to ministry.

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BA.org Assignment Record

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Fr. Richard D. Dolan

Status: Accused

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

A woman spoke before Archbishop Rigali and clergy in 9/06 about being raped by Dolan for 18 months, beginning when she was 14. Dolan left active ministry in 1981 and was laicized 5/31/00. Name not included in the 2005 Grand Jury Report. Name is included on secret 1994 memo from Wm. Lynn to Msgr. James Molloy (released 2/27/12) regarding priests in secret archives who were accused of sexual misconduct with a minor with no conclusive evidence.

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Philadelphia Archdiocesan Priest Data Sheet

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Fr. Michael J. Donofrio

Ordained: 1976
Status: Sued

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Sued in 2003. Accused of abuse of a 12-year-old boy 1982-83. Archdiocese was notified in 2002. Donofrio was working in Peru. Removed from that assignment in 2003 and placed on restricted leave. Donofrio submitted a petition for voluntary laicization to Vatican. Laicized in 7/07.

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Philadelphia Archdiocesan Priest Data Profile

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Fr. John C. Dougherty

Donate Photo

Ordained: 1945
Status: Accused

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Name included on a secret 1994 memo from Wm. Lynn to Msgr. James Molloy (released 2/27/12) regarding priests in secret archives who were accused of sexual misconduct with a minor. That list also says no conclusive evidence. Died 10/05/03.

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1994 Memo from Fr William Lynn to Asst Vicar for Admin re Names in Philadelphia Secret Archives, released 02.27.12

Fr. William J. Dougherty

Ordained: 1969
Status: Accused

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Accused 4/3/02 of sexually abusing a female HS student. No date or description of abuse given. Had been placed on administrative leave 9/1/99. On 4/15/04 archdiocese accepted review board assessment that allegation was credible. On 6/14/04 his ministry was restricted and archdiocese said Vatican was reviewing laicization. On 9/10/04 ministry was further restricted. Laicized 7/06. Had been assigned to HS 1970-94. Was chaplain with the USAF Reserves 1976-78.

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Fr. Philip J. Dowling

Ordained: 1956
Status: Accused

Died: 01/27/2022
Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Admitted to a newspaper reporter in 2005 that he had inappropriately touched one girl. The paper was investigating allegations that he abused two sisters. Placed on leave. Another set of sisters also came forward to accuse him of abuse. Given a life of prayer and penance in 2005. Died in 1/22.

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Philadelphia Archdiiocesan Priest Data Profile

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Fr. Peter J. Dunne

Ordained: 1954
Status: Accused

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Accused of abuse of three teenage boys and one boy of unknown age. The archdiocese learned of abuse in 1986. Sent for treatment then reassigned. Reportedly paid one victim $40K for his silence. Retired in 1995. In 2004 he was placed on permanently restricted ministry with no faculties. Accepted a supervised life of Prayer and Penance. Died 4/17/10. A civil was suit filed in Iowa in 2008. Named as diagnosed pedophile on secret 2/94 memo from Msgr. Lynn to Asst. Vicar for Admin released 2/27/12.

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Fr. Ernest A. Durante

Status: Sued

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Named in Philadelphia Grand Jury Report as having watched Fr. John Schmeer sexually abuse teenage boys. Left the priesthood in 1987 to marry. Accused in a 2004 lawsuit of molesting a boy. Was working as guidance counselor at a Catholic school in Florida in 2006 when someone told authorities about his past. He then "retired."

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Fr. Thomas J. Durkin

Ordained: 1964
Status: Accused

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Accused of abuse of eight mostly pre-teen boys 1964-66. Left active ministry in 1968. Laicization announced in 2005.

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Philadelphia Archdioncesan Priest Data Profile

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Fr. James M. Dux

Ordained: 1948
Status: Accused

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Accused of abuse of many children, mostly boys. Accused in 1985 of possession of "inappropriate material" which was destroyed. "Retired" in 1994. Ministry restricted in 1995. In 2004 allegations found credible; ministry was permanently restricted. Lived a supervised life. Diagnosed in 1965 as sexually deviated. Name is on secret 1994 memo from Wm. Lynn to Msgr. James Molloy (released 2/27/12) regarding priests in secret archives who were guilty of sexual misconduct with a minor. Died 11/4/06.

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Fr. Charles F. Engelhardt

Order: OSFS
Ordained: 1977
Status: Convicted

Died: 11/16/2014
Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Named in report and presentment by Philadelphia Grand Jury 2/10/11. Accused, along with another priest and a teacher, of orally sodomizing and molesting a 10-year-old boy in 1998 or '99 at St. Jerome's in Philly. Remained at another parish for two years after 2009 complaint and order from Archdiocese to leave assignment. Surrendered to police 2/10/11. Refused plea agreement 6/11. New civil suit filed 7/11. Criminal trial started 1/7/13. Defendants did not testify. Found guilty 1/30/13. Arrested. Request for new trial filed with PA Superior Court 7/14 by counsel for Engelhardt and for teacher Bernard Shero, based on new evidence about a new witness who could have supported defense and discredited the main witness. Engelhardt died in prison 11/16/14.

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BA.org Assignment Record

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Fr. Francis S. Feret

Ordained: 1962
Status: Sued

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

One of 21 priests placed on administrative leave by the Philadelphia archdiocese 3/7/11 pending an investigation for credible allegations involving sexual abuse or inappropriate behavior with minors. One man reported in 2006 that Feret abused him at age 9 in the early 1970s. Last assignment was at St. Adalbert Church in Philadelphia's Port Richmond section. Archdiocese announced 5/4/12 that allegations were substantiated and Feret would be permanently removed from active ministry. Suit filed 9/18/12.

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Fr. Mark E. Fernandes

Ordained: 2004
Status: Accused

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

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Fr. J. Michael Flood

Ordained: 1968
Status: Unsubstantiated

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

A lawsuit filed in 9/2009 in DE accused Flood of abuse of a boy at St. John Neumann High School in the late 1970s. The archdiocese let him continue as pastor since the plaintiff's identity was not known. Flood denied the allegation; agreed to avoid unsupervised ministry to youth. One of 21 priests placed on leave 3/7/2011 pending an investigation into allegations of the sexual abuse of minors. The suit was withdrawn in 12/2011 due to inconsistencies in the plaintiff's deposition. In 5/2012 the archdiocese deemed the allegation unsubstantiated and determined that Flood was suitable for ministry.

Fr. Peter J. Foley

Ordained: 1967
Status: Sued

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Accused in a lawsuit filed in 11/21 of sexually abusing a boy, age 16, in 1981. The abuse allegedly occurred at Cardinal Dougherty High School, where Foley was on faculty and the boy was a student, and on a trip to a beach house. The priest gave the boy alcohol during the trip and allegedly sexually assaulted him. Foley admitted to giving the boy alcohol but denied abusing him.

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Archdiocese of Philadelphia Assignment Record

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Fr. Leonard A. Furmanski

Ordained: 1959
Status: Accused

Died: 10/27/2009
Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Monsignor. Sent to St. John Vianney Hospital for evaluation in 1999 due to an allegation of recent sexual abuse of a boy, age 11. Returned to ministry. Accused in 2002 of sexually abusing a Cardinal O'Hara High School student 38 years prior, after the boy told Furmanski that he was raped by his algebra teacher in 1964. Sent again to St. John Vianney. Removed in 2003 due to allegations of abuse of boys in the 1980s at a Swedesburg parish. Furmanski admitted to abusing children. Again sent to St. John Vianney for evaluation. His ministry was permanently restricted in 2004 and he was ordered to live a supervised life of prayer and penance. Per the Philadelphia Grand Jury Report in 9/2005, Furmanski sexually abused children throughout his priesthood. A woman told the Grand Jury that Furmanski sexually abused her under the guise of "sex education" over several years, beginning when she was 11 in 1977. The abuse included Furmanski arranging for a boy to fondle and kiss her. He also tried to get them to have intercourse. Furmanski died 10/27/2009.

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Philadelphia Archdiocesan Priest Data Profile

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Fr. Robert W. Gaghan

Order: OPraem
Ordained: 1954
Status: Accused

Died: 05/29/1989
Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

In 2008 a man reported to the Norbertines that Gaghan, his uncle, fondled him under the covers of his own bed and then performed oral sex on him when he was a youth. The man said his younger brother, who later died of a drug overdose, was also abused by Gaghan, and that an older brother was abused by a priest-friend of Gaghan's. This brother also died of a drug overdose. Gaghan taught at former Saint John Neumann High School in Philadelphia. Investigation by the order found the allegation credible. Gaghan died in 1989. Included on the St. Norbert Abbey in WI list 7/19/2019, which notes one allegation.

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Fr. Francis J. Gallagher

Ordained: 1973
Status: Arrested

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Arrested in 1989 for solicitation of two young men, ages 18 and 20. Also admitted abuse of two teenage brothers. Placed in treatment in 1990 and reassigned to parish in 1991. Placed on leave in 2002 and petitioned for laicization. Laicization announced in 11/06. Name is included on secret 1994 memo from Wm. Lynn to Msgr. James Molloy (released 2/27/12) regarding priests in secret archives who were guilty of sexual misconduct with a minor.

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Fr. Joseph J. Gallagher

Ordained: 1963
Status: Sued

Died: 06/5/2018
Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Per the 2/10/2011 Grand Jury Report II, a man told the archdiocese in 2007 that Gallagher repeatedly fondled him when he was a 7- or 8-year-old altar boy at St. Mark's in Bristol, PA. Another man had made a similar allegation the previous year. The man who came forward in 2007 reported that others had also been abused. The Review Board deemed both reports unsubstantiated in 2008. The man who came forward in 2007 died by suicide within a year of the Review Board's decision. Gallagher "retired." He was removed in 2/2011. New suits in 4/2011 and 9/2012. Found unfit for ministry in 4/2013. Permanently removed. Died 6/5/1208. Funeral mass concelebrated by Bishop Maginnis.

Assignments:

BA.org Assignment Record

Sources:

Fr. Joseph P. Gallagher

Ordained: 1973
Status: Sued

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Accused of abuse of a 12-year-old boy in early-mid 1970s. Archdiocese notified in 1974. Sent for treatment and reassigned. Placed on leave in 2002; ministry permanently restricted in 2004. Living a supervised life. Civil suit filed 12/03.

Assignments:

Philadelphia Archdiocesan Priest Data Profile

Sources:

Fr. Stanley M. Gana

Ordained: 1970
Status: Accused

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Accused of abuse in 1970s-1980s. Abuse reported in 1992 and 1995. Placed on leave and sent for treatment. He was one of the unidentified priests dismissed from the archdiocese in 4/02 because of abuse complaints. "Countless victims," including women, and theft of money, per 2005 grand jury report. In 1996 he left treatment and went to Orlando, FL. Began living with a group of older teens and young men. Laicized 3/21/06. Named in new Grand Jury report in 2/11.

Assignments:

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Fr. Armand D. Garcia

Ordained: 2005
Status: Guilty plea

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Suspended 3/16/2018 after an allegation of the sexual abuse of a minor 2014-2017, while assigned to Immaculate Heart of Mary in Roxborough. Had been assigned to the parish in 2011, after a year of personal leave. Pastor of St. Martin of Tours in Summerdale since 11/2017. Member of the National Association of Filipino Priests. Arrested 3/4/2019, charged with rape of a teenage girl, sex abuse, corruption of a minor, and recording a sex act. May have also plied the girl with alcohol and marijuana. Pleaded guilty in 10/2023 to corruption of a minor and unlawful contact with a minor. The rape charge was dismissed in a plea agreement. Sentencing scheduled for 1/2024.

Sources:

Fr. Mark S. Gaspar

Ordained: 1998
Status: Accused

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

One of 21 priests placed on administrative leave by the Philadelphia archdiocese 3/7/2011 pending investigation for credible allegations involving sexual abuse or inappropriate behavior with minors. Last assignment was at Our Lady of Charity Church in Brookhaven, Delaware County. Allegations were substantiated in 4/2013. Gaspar was permanently removed from ministry.

Sources:

Fr. Joseph P. Gausch

Ordained: 1945
Status: Sued

Died: 05/30/1999
Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Named in at least three 2004 lawsuits and one in 2006. Accused of abuse of numerous boys. First report of abuse received in 1948; sent for treatment. Reassigned several times. Left priesthood in 1992. Questioned several times prior to death in 5/99. At least 12 known sexual assault complaints against him by 2000. The 2006 suit was dismissed. Name on 1994 secret memo.

Assignments:

Archdiocese of Philadelphia Assignment Record

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Fr. Francis A. Giliberti

Ordained: 1970
Status: Accused

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Accused of abuse of at least 4 teenage boys between 1960s and 1976. Archdiocese learned of abuse in 2002 and 2004. His faculties were restricted. Accusations found credible in 2004. Ministry permanently restricted and was living a supervised life. Counting Giliberti, at least 5 members of his 1970 seminary class have been defrocked or removed from ministry over abuse allegations, including Gana, Avery, DePaoli and James M. McGuire. Died 4/16/18 at St. Francis Rehab and Health Care Center in Darby PA.

Assignments:

Philadelphia Archdiocesian Priest Data Profile

Sources:

Fr. John E. Gillespie

Ordained: 1953
Status: Sued

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Accused of abuse of five youths 1958-97. Archdiocese knew of his behavior as early as 1994. Placed on leave in 2002. Further restrictions added in 2004. Ministry permanently restricted. Living a supervised life when he died in 2008. Named in new Grand Jury Report 2/10/11. Civil suit filed in 3/11 alleged abuse of a boy, ages 14-17, during 1994-97 at Our Lady of Calvary in Philadelphia. Another suit filed 3/21/11. On secret 1994 list.

Deacon Charles Ginn, Jr.

Status: Accused

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Ordained for the permanent diaconate in 2001. Taught at St. Joseph's Prep School for 29 years. Accused of misconduct with two young boys (hugging and kissing) at the school in 1996. Admitted his behavior it to the school, which ordered treatment and restrictions. Not placed on leave until 11/2005. The Archbishop said the act was not abuse and that Ginn would not be reassigned.

Sources:

Fr. David W. Givey

Ordained: 1971
Status: Accused

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Editor of the Catholic Standard & Times 1984-1991. Retired in 2006. One of 26 priests placed on leave by the Archdiocese after they were named as persons of concern in a 2/2011 Philadelphia grand jury report. Believed to be living in the Camden diocese. Denied the allegations. Found unsuitable for ministry per a 7/6/2012 announcement, due to violation of the Standards of Ministerial Behavior and Boundaries. There were no substantiated allegations of sexual abuse.

Assignments:

Background on Priest from Archdiocese of Philadelphia

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Fr. Joseph M. Glatts

Ordained: 1966
Status: Accused

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

One of 21 priests placed on administrative leave by the Philadelphia Archdiocese on 3/7/2011, pending the investigation of allegations involving sexual abuse or inappropriate behavior with minors. Glatts' last assignment was as pastor emeritus of St. Andrew Church in Drexel Hill, Delaware County. Permanently removed in 12/2013 after a determination that there were no allegations of sexual misconduct but that he acted in violation of church standards.

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Fr. Thomas J. Grumm

Ordained: 1975
Status: Accused

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Accused in 2002 of abuse of a high school boy 1986-88. Placed on leave and sent for treatment. Ministry was permanently restricted in 2004 and he agreed to a supervised life.

Assignments:

Philadelphia Archdiocesan Priest Data Profile

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Fr. David I. Hagan

Order: OSFS
Ordained: 1966
Status: Sued

Died: 05/1/2005
Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Worked at Bishop Ireton High School in Alexandria, VA in the Richmond diocese 1967-71. Assigned to Sacred Heart College in Belmont, NC in the Charlotte diocese as chaplain and theology teacher 1971-78. Transferred to his order's Philadelphia Innder City House, where he appears to have remained until his death 5/1/05. Accused in 6/06 RICO class action civil suit of abusing two brothers for three years, beginning in 1977 or 1978, early in his Inner City House ministry in North Philadelphia. RICO suit dismissed 11/06 on grounds that RICO's standard of injury to business or property had not been met. Appeal rejected by 3rd Circuit Court of Appeals 11/07.

Assignments:

BishopAccountability Assignment Record

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Fr. Steven Harris

Ordained: 1980
Status: Accused

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

One of 21 priests placed on administrative leave by Philadelphia archdiocese 3/7/11 pending investigation for credible allegations involving sexual abuse or inappropriate behavior with minors. Last assignment was as pastor at St. Isaac Jogues in Wayne. Had served as chancellor for archdiocese. Found suitable for ministry 7/6/12 after Review Board determined misconduct claims were unsubstantiated. Assigned to Tribunal and Chancery. Pastor of St. Bridget's in East Falls since 6/15; placed again on leave 12/15 due to "concerns regarding his suitability for ministry at this time," and not due to allegations of a crime.

Assignments:

Background Information on Priest by Archdiocese of Philadelphia 7.6.12

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Fr. Mark J. Haynes

Ordained: 1985
Status: Convicted

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Arrested 10/14, charged with felony counts of Sexual Abuse of Children -- Child Pornography and Criminal Use of a Communication Facility for posting two photos on Instagram of girl younger than 14, one nude, one close-up of vaginal area. His user name for Instagram was of a young female; traced by investigators to his parish, SS Simon and Jude, West Chester PA. Also found to have posted many other child porn images and lewd emails with the young girl in the two photos; her identity unknown at time of arrest. Arrested 2/15 by FBI for the child porn. Three women 2/15 alleged sex abuse as children in 1990s by Haynes; one said he forced her to perform oral sex on him during confession. Worked since '85 at 8 parishes, Office for Youth and Young adults; also high school chaplain. Pled guilty 6/15 to distributing child porn. Sentenced 2/16 to 20 years in prison.

Assignments:

Fox Philly 10.24.14

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Fr. James T. Henry

Ordained: 1964
Status: Accused

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Diocese learned in 1987 of abuse of a 15-year-old girl. He was transferred, sent for treatment, then reassigned. Ministry was permanently restricted in 2004 and he was living a supervised life. Name included on secret 1994 memo from Wm. Lynn to Msgr. James Molloy (released 2/27/12) regarding priests in secret archives who were accused of sexual misconduct with a minor with no conclusive evidence.

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Fr. Robert J. Hermley

Order: OSFS
Ordained: 1955
Status: Convicted

Died: 08/30/2009
Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Accused in 2003 of abuse of boy in Philadelphia 1976-80. Reported in 1987 to his Order for having abused a youth in the early 1980s in NJ. Convicted in 1982 in PA of indecent assault of boys, ages 13 and 14, during Wilmington assignment. Received three years probation. Reinstated to ministry same year in VA. Retired in 2003. Named in Philadelphia Grand Jury report. Died 8/30/09. Name released as part of 8/11 Oblate $24.8M settlement with 40 individuals.

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Fr. Gerard J. Hoffman

Ordained: 1973
Status: Accused

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Placed on leave in 7/08 after allegation that he had sexually abused a minor in the 1970s. Was parochial vicar at Our Lady of Mount Carmel parish in Doylestown at time of his suspension. Archdiocese reported this was first allegation against Hoffman. As of 3/09, archdiocese said Review Board could not substantiate original charge but did find evidence of abuse of a second minor. Hoffman agreed to live a supervised life of prayer and penance at a priest retirement home.

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Br. Regis Howitz

Order: OFM
Status: Accused

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Accused, along with Rev. Charles Newman, of sexually abusing a teenage boy in the mid-1990s. Newman was principal of Archbishop Ryan High School and Howitz was a maintenance worker at the school. Newman allegedly plied the boy with drugs and alcohol. Allegations against both men were reportedly deemed credible by the Archdiocese and Franciscans. Ordered to live a life of prayer and penance. The boy died of a drug overdose at age 28 in 2006. Howitz's name is included on the Our Lady of Guadalupe Franciscans' list of credibly accused as of 1/2024. (Howitz was a member of the Assumption Province.)

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Fr. Daniel J. Hoy

Ordained: 1948
Status: Accused

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Retired in 1998. One of 21 priests placed on administrative leave by Philadelphia archdiocese 3/7/11 pending investigation of allegations involving sexual abuse of minor. Last assignment: in residence at Our Lady of the Assumption Parish in Strafford. Died in 7/11 before investigation completed. Archdiocese announced 5/4/12 that investigation was inconclusive due to his death.

Assignments:

BA.org Assignment Record

Sources:

Fr. John F. Hummell

Ordained: 1965
Status: Accused

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Accusations received in 10/05 that Hummell abused a minor in the mid-1970s. Placed on leave in late 6/06 without faculties after diocesan investigation revealed a "patterns of behavior that would be considered sexual abuse." Case referred to Vatican.

Assignments:

Philadelphia Archdiocese Priest Data Profile

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Fr. James M. Iannarella

Ordained: 1996
Status: Accused

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Removed from active ministry in 1999 due to "known [recent] sexual misconduct" with a 17-year-old girl, over a three-month period. Sent for evaluation. Placed on administrative leave. until 2003. Assigned to Drexel University 2001-2005 until name appeared in PA Grand Jury Report. Laicization announced 3/07.

Assignments:

Philadelphia Archdiocesan Priest Data Profile

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Fr. Stanley Janowski

Order: OFM
Ordained: 1966
Status: Settled

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Taught for years at Archbishop Ryan High School in Philadelphia. Also served as vice principal. Removed from public ministry in 1993. Name appeared on Msgr. Lynn's 1994 list of extern priests who were 'guilty of sexual misconduct with minors.' Twice accused of the sexual abuse of minors but the order's investigation was inconclusive. Order did settle with one individual. Believed in 2012 to be living in WI. Included on the Franciscans Our Lady of Guadalupe Province list of credibly accused as of 1/2024. (Member of the Assumption Province.)

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Fr. Richard G. Jones

Ordained: 1963
Status: Sued

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Accused of abuse of two teenage boys. Archdiocese learned of first instance in 1988. On health leave 1988-1990, leave of absence 1990-1993. Left active ministry in 1993. Civil suit filed 2004 alleging abuse 1980-1983. Included in Grand Jury report of 2005. Laicization announced 2005. Name included on secret 1994 memo from Rev. William Lynn to Msgr. James Molloy (released 2/27/12) regarding priests in secret archives who were guilty of sexual misconduct with a minor.

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Fr. William T. Joseph

Ordained: 1966
Status: Accused

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Accused of abuse of 5th grade boy in late 1970s. Diocese notified in 1998. Joseph allowed to retire. In 2004, his ministry was permanently restricted and he accepted a supervised life.

Assignments:

Philadelphia Archdiocesan Priest Data Profile

Sources:

Philadelphia Grand Jury Report
Philadelphia Daily News 4.3.08

Fr. William N. Killian

Donate Photo

Ordained: 1935
Status: Sued

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

In 2002 a woman reported to the archdiocese that she was sexually abused as a child in the 1950s by Killian, at St. Richard's in South Philadelphia. He allegedly would have her change from her school uniform into a ballerina outfit from his closet, then have her lie on bed while he molested her. She told her mom who spoke with someone, then said she would not have to go to rectory again. Killian remained in his position. The older brother of a classmate confirmed the story about Killian and the "costume closet." Killian died in 1965. Named in a 2006 civil suit.

Sources:

Fr. John Kline

Ordained: 1949
Status: Sued

Died: 01/5/1996
Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Died in 1/1996. Accused in a lawsuit filed in NJ on 3/16/2011 of sexually abusing an adolescent boy while assigned to St. Francis Xavier Parish and High School in 1968 or 1969. The plaintiff alleged that Kline also abused his brother.

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Fr. Thomas M. Kohler

Ordained: 1968
Status: Arrested

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Removed from assignment in 1994 and remained on leave until 2005. Accused of abuse of a male in the mid-1970s and of taking nude photos of a 15-year-old boy in 1994 in New Jersey. Criminal charges filed in that case. Outcome unclear. Accused in a in a 1995 civil suit of abuse of an altar boy 1973-78; settled. Laicization announced in 2005.

Assignments:

Philadelphia Archdiocesan Priest Data Profile

Sources:

Fr. Louis J. Kolenkiewicz

Ordained: 1993
Status: Accused

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Suspended 2/15 after discovery by D.A. that porn he had downloaded in 2005 included photos of minors. Investigated by D.A. 2005 and 2011 for downloading porn. Removed for three years. No charges filed due to church not preserving evidence, per D.A. Received treatment after 2011 incident. Had returned to parish ministry in 6/14. On leave 6/15 after local police found him working at parish and told archdiocese to keep him away from children. Cleared by archdiocesan review board; to return 6/19/17, assigned to Cathedral.

Sources:

Philadelphia Inquirer 03.03.15
Philly com 05.26.17

Fr. Matthew J. Kornacki

Ordained: 1973
Status: Convicted

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Accused of possession of child pornography 2001-2003. Placed on leave in 2003 and sent for treatment. Indicted and pleaded guilty in 2004. Sentenced to 30 months in federal prison. His ministry was permanently restricted. Registered sex offender in PA.

Assignments:

Philadelphia Archdiocesan Priest Data Report

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Fr. Albert T. Kostelnick

Ordained: 1954
Status: Accused

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Accused of fondling at least 18 girls over a 32-year period. Reported in 1987, 1988 and 1992. Kept in ministry until 2002. His ministry was permanently restricted and he accepted a supervised life. Died 3/30/09. Testimony in 3/12 trial of Msgr. Lynn. One woman, molested as a teen when she served meals in the rectory, testified she wrote directly to Lynn, a childhood acquaintance, in 12/01. Kostelnick denied abuse. Sent for evaluation.

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Fr. Edward P. Kuczynski

Ordained: 1977
Status: Sued

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Accused in a civil suit filed in 4/2006 of sexually abusing boy 2002-2005. The boy was a student at St. Peter's School in Pottstown until his mother removed him in 2005. Police were notified the same year and reported to the Archdiocese that the complaint was unfounded.

Assignments:

BA.org Assignment Record

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Fr. Dexter A. Lanctot

Ordained: 1976
Status: Accused

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Name is on secret 1994 memo from Wm. Lynn to Msgr. James Molloy (released 2/27/12) regarding priests in secret archives who were accused of sexual misconduct with minors with no conclusive evidence. Served three months in federal prison for breaking into a naval air station as part of a nuclear weapons protest in 1987. Chaplain of St. Christopher's Hospital for Children. Faculties restricted in 8/93 after he conducted a public exorcism on the steps of archdiocesan headquarters, as a protest of greed in the archdiocese. Left priesthood in 1995. Chaplain at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia beginning in 2007.

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Fr. David T. Lawlor

Order: OPraem
Ordained: 1971
Status: Acquitted

Died: 12/30/2017
Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Assigned to Daylesford Abbey. Arrested in 2002, charged with accosting (inappropriately touching) a mentally disabled adult male in a YMCA whirlpool. Placed on leave. Denied the accusations. Found not guilty by a jury in 10/2003. Died 12/30/2017.

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Fr. Raymond O. Leneweaver

Ordained: 1962
Status: Accused

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Accused of abuse of at least 12 youths 1966-80. Several transfers after Archdiocese first learned of abuse. Left active ministry in 1980. Taught in public schools. Requested reactivation in the late 1990s. Msgr. Lynn denied his request in 1998. Laicized 3/21/05. On 1994 secret list memo.

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Sources:

Fr. John R. Liggio

Order: OSA
Ordained: 1975
Status: Sued

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Liggio, a teacher of religion and campus ministry director at Malvern Prep School, was investigated by the DA's office 1/03 after allegations he abused a student at the school in 1997-1998. He was placed on leave in late 2002 after allegation surfaced. He denied allegations. In 9/03, DA's office declined to file charges because of insufficient evidence. Named in 7/25/12 civil suit by original accuser.

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Fr. Joseph L. Logrip

Ordained: 1972
Status: Accused

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Placed on administrative leave by Philadelphia archdiocese 3/7/11 pending investigation. Mentioned in 2/11 civil suit as having not acted despite knowledge of attack on one youth. On 6/8/14 archbishop announced that Logrip was "suitable for ministry based on unsubstantiated allegations that he sexually abused minors over 20 years ago." Placed on leave again in 1/19 after new allegation of abuse of a minor in the early 1980s. Found "unsuitable for ministry" in 12/19. Case to be sent to the Vatican.

Assignments:

Archdiocese of Philadelphia 12.08.19

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Fr. Christopher D. Lucas

Ordained: 1985
Status: Accused

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Ordained for the Conventual Franciscans. Incardinated into the Philadelphia archdiocese as a diocesan priest in 2002. Allegations received by the archdiocese in fall 2018 were made public in 9/19. Accused of sexually abusing a minor prior to ordination in the early 1970s, while Lucas was also a minor. Deemed by the archdiocese to be unsuitable for ministry. Ministry restricted, faculties withdrawn in 9/19.

Assignments:

Archdiocese of Philadelphia Assignments

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Fr. Joseph E. Macanga

Ordained: 1986
Status: Convicted

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Left active priesthood in 1995 with a clean record. Arrested in Lumberton NJ 4/08 by the FBI after they found child pornography on his personal computer. He had been identified as a participant in an internet chat room. Working at the time of his arrest as a teacher and coach at a Burlington County middle school; suspended without pay. Released on house arrest with monitoring. Sentenced in 6/09 to 57 months in federal prison. Projected release date was 8/13.

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Fr. Steven J. Marinucci

Ordained: 1974
Status: Accused

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Placed on leave in 2/19 after an allegation that he sexually abused a child in the late 1970s while working at St. Hubert High School for Girls and in residence St. Bernard and St. Bartholomew. Marinucci denied the allegation. Police and archdiocese to investigate.

Assignments:

Catholic Philly 02.04.19

Sources:

Fr. Nilo C. Martins

Order: SVD
Status: Convicted

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Brazilian pediatrician and order priest. Convicted 1985 of abuse of boy, age 12. Sent for treatment before conviction. Served only about 5 weeks of 23-46 month sentence. Immediately deported/returned to Brazil. Remained active priest there for for many years.

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Fr. George J. Mazzotta

Ordained: 1966
Status: Accused

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Privileges removed in 5/10 after allegations Mazzotta sexually abused a minor more than 40 years prior. Removed form assignment as parochial vicar at Stella Maris parish and transferred to Villa St. Joseph, a home for retired priests in Darby, PA. No known previous allegations against him. Archdiocese announced 5/20/12 that allegations were found to be credible and he was unsuitable for ministry. Mazzotta agreed to a supervised life of prayer and penance.

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Fr. Joseph F. McCafferty

Ordained: 1961
Status: Accused

Died: 09/4/2004
Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Name included on secret 1994 memo from Wm. Lynn to Msgr. James Molloy (released 2/27/12) regarding priests in secret archives who were accused of sexual misconduct with minors with no conclusive evidence. In 1994 was chaplain at St. Mary's Manor in Lansdale. Died 9/4/04.

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Fr. Michael J. McCarthy

Ordained: 1965
Status: Accused

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Assigned for 20 years to Cardinal O'Hara High School, 1965-1989. Also worked part-time as a travel agent. Accused of abuse of two male high school students. The Archdiocese received complaints in 1986 and 1991 regarding alleged abuse 1974-1976. Received a promotion despite the allegations. Placed on leave in 1993 with restrictions. Sent for treatment. Further restrictions added in 2004. Laicized 1/3/2006. Accused in a 5/2020 lawsuit of sexually abusing a boy, age 14, in 1971 in NJ. Dismissed due to lack of jurisdiction in NJ. Decision upheld by the state Supreme Court in 2/2025.

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Fr. John F. McCole

Ordained: 1958
Status: Sued

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

A man filed civil suit in 6/09 in NC alleging that in the 1970s when he was an altar boy, McCole abused him on several occasions in Philadelphia and then took him to NC where he and another priest, Justin Pechulis, forced the boy to participate in group oral sex while a third man watched. The suit also alleged that Cardinal Krol was told of the abuse but dismissed the allegations saying "That's just how men behave with each other." McCole denied the allegations. Died 1/21/15.

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Fr. Charles P. McColgan

Ordained: 1964
Status: Settled

Died: 07/21/1993
Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Priest of the Diocese of Camden. Accused in testimony in a class action lawsuit hearing of fondling a boy in a Philadelphia bathhouse in the 1970s. Same plaintiff alleged abuse by Rev. John Kelly. Civil suit filed in 1994 (RICO suit); plaintiff's claims dismissed as beyond the statute of limitations. McColgan died in 1993. All RICO claims settled in 3/2003. Name included on the Camden diocese's list in 2/2019.

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Fr. Andrew D. McCormick

Ordained: 1982
Status: Indicted

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

One of 21 priests removed 3/7/2011 pending the investigation of allegations of sexual abuse or inappropriate behavior with minors. Last assigned to Sacred Heart in Swedesburg. There was allegation (in 2004?) of computer pornography and boundary issues. Arrested 7/26/2012, charged with sexually assaulting a boy in 1997 at St. John Cantius Parish. Three felony charges were dismissed by a court 8/2012 but reinstated 10/2012. Others remained. Trial began 02/27/2014. Ended in mistrial 3/12/2014. A second trial was ended in a mistrial. The Archdiocese announced in 8/2018 that McCormick was found unsuitable for ministry.

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Fr. James McDonnell

Donate Photo

Ordained: 1943
Status: Settled

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Died in 1995. Parish priest 1943-53, 1975-95. Navy Chaplain 1953-1975. Accused in a lawsuit settled in 4/20 in the low six figures of sexually abusing a boy, ages 13-14, in 1978-79, while assigned to Maternity B.V.M.

Assignments:

Garabedian Law Offices Assignment Record

Sources:

Garabedian Law Offices Assignment Record

Fr. James J. McGinnis III

Ordained: 1978
Status: Accused

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Name is included on secret 1994 memo from Wm. Lynn to Msgr. James Molloy (released 2/27/12) regarding priests in secret archives who were accused of sexual misconduct with minors with no conclusive evidence. In 1994 he was Associate Pastor at St. Ignatius in Yardley. Shown as former pastor of Our Lady of Hope in Philadelphia. Died 10/26/10. Per his obituary, McGinnis was retired and a resident of Saint Francis Country House, Darby.

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Fr. James E. McGuire

Ordained: 1970
Status: Accused

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Accused of abuse of three boys and one other person. Abuse allegedly began while he was a seminarian in 1966. Placed on leave in 2002 with restrictions. Laicized 3/24/06. Name is included on a secret 1994 memo from Wm. Lynn to Msgr. James Molloy (released 2/27/12) regarding priests in secret archives who were accused of sexual misconduct with a minor. As of 4/16/12, at least five members of McGuire's 1970 seminary class have been defrocked or removed from ministry over abuse allegations.

Assignments:

Archdiocese of Philadelphia Assignment Record

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Fr. Joseph M. McKenzie

Ordained: 1951
Status: Accused

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Accused of abuse of abuse of two boys and two other males between 1966-81. At least four health leaves during his career. Died in 1989. Name is included on secret 1994 memo from Wm. Lynn to Msgr. James Molloy (released 2/27/12) regarding priests in secret archives who were accused of sexual misconduct with a minor with no conclusive evidence.

Assignments:

Philadelphia Archdiocesan Priest Data Profile

Sources:

Fr. Richard J. McLoughlin

Ordained: 1969
Status: Accused

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Accused of abuse of a boy in 1968-69 and a 15-year-old girl beginning in 1976. Placed on leave in 1994 and again in 2002. Sentenced to supervised life of prayer and penance in 2004. Matter referred to Vatican 11/12/04 for possible laicization. Name is included on secret 1994 memo from Wm. Lynn to Msgr. James Molloy (released 2/27/12) regarding priests in secret archives who were accused of sexual misconduct with a minor. Inquiry was still ongoing.

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Fr. John F. Meyers

Ordained: 1983
Status: Accused

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Placed on leave in late 2018 after an allegation that he abused a minor in the early 1980s. Found "not suitable for ministry" by the archdiocesan review board in 1/19. Matter to be sent to the Vatican. Found by a survivor of abuse by another priest in 4/19 to be working at a charter school in AZ. The survivor alerted the school.

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Fr. Donald J. Mills

Ordained: 1982
Status: Accused

Died: 06/24/2006
Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Per a motion filed by the Philadelphia District Attorney's office in 10/2011, Mills was accused in 2005 of sexually assaulting a minor in 1982. Rumors of "troubling conduct" existed as early as 1996, when one priest was penalized for raising objections when Mills was transferred to his parish. Mills was placed on health leave in 1999 and died in 2006. The priest from the 1996 complaint testified in the 2012 trial of Msgr. Lynn about how complaints were ignored.

Assignments:

Philadelphia Inquirer Obituary 06.28.06

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Fr. Joseph R. Monahan

Ordained: 1962
Status: Accused

Died: 03/29/2017
Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Accused in 2002 of abuse of an 8th grade boy in 1969. Sent to St. Louis for alcohol treatment in 1972, where he then began working. Incardinated there in 1980. St. Louis was not informed of the allegations until 2005, just before the release of the Grand Jury Report. Monahan was immediately placed on leave. He died 3/28/2017.

Assignments:

Philadelphia Archdiocesan Priest Data Profile

Sources:

Fr. John H. Mulholland

Ordained: 1965
Status: Sued

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Accused of abuse of six or more youths in the 1960s and 1970s. Wrote letters to a youth in the 1960s regarding sadomasochistic outings with teens. Church knew of letters in 1968; he continued to work until 2002 or so. In 2004 the Archdiocese deemed charges not credible but that he needed mental health help. Remained active until just after 2005 Grand Jury Report. New allegation received after report was released. Laicization announced in 8/08. On secret 1994 list. Named by a man and a woman in new suit filed 9/18/12. Suit file in Canada in 2016 by PA man alleging abuse as a teen by Mulholland on a trip to Ontario.

Fr. John J. Murray

Ordained: 1947
Status: Accused

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Accused of abuse of two teenage girls in 1991. Placed on leave with restricted faculties in 1992 and "retired" in 1993. Additional restrictions added 2004. Died in 3/06. Name is included on secret 1994 memo from Wm. Lynn to Msgr. James Molloy (released 2/27/12) regarding priests in secret archives who were guilty of or accused of sexual misconduct with a minor.

Assignments:

Philadelphia Archdiocesan Priest Data Profile

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Fr. Michael G. Murtha

Ordained: 1993
Status: Accused

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Allegations that in 1995 Murtha was found to be in possession of S&M and violent child pornography were included in a motion filed by Philadelphia District Attorney's office 10/11. Motion also cited an explicit note Murtha had written to a 7th grade boy. Murtha initially denied that the porn was his and then admitted it. He was sent to St. John Vianney for treatment but allowed to remain as an active priest until at least 2008. Request for laicization sent to Vatican.

Assignments:

BA.org Assignment Record

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Fr. Zachary Navit

Ordained: 1994
Status: Accused

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

One of 21 priests placed on administrative leave by the Philadelphia archdiocese 3/7/11 pending investigation of credible allegations involving sexual abuse or inappropriate behavior with minors. Last assignment was as director of the Offices of Closures and Special Projects. Cleared in 12/13 by the Archdiocese to return to previous position after Review Board could not substantiate allegations.

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Fr. Henry Nawn

Ordained: 1955
Status: Sued

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Accused of abuse of five boys in their mid-teens in the 1960s. First allegation not received by the archdiocese until 1997. Retired in 1991. Nawn died in 1996. Named in 2004 and 2006 civil suits. Suit rejected by 3rd Circuit Court of Appeals in 11/07.

Assignments:

Philadelphia Archdiocesan Priest Data Profile

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Fr. Charles Newman

Order: OFM
Ordained: 1985
Status: Sued

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Accused in a 2004 lawsuit of sexually abusing a 16-year-old old boy 1994-1996. Allegedly plied the boy with drugs and alcohol and performed oral sex on him. Also gave him $42K, some of it funds from Bishop Ryan High School, where Newman was principal. Order allegedly offered the complainant $50K to sign a release. Suit dismissed due to the statute of limitations. Newman resigned from Ryan for financial mismanagement in 2003. Accuser died of drug overdose in 11/2006. Arrested in 12/2007 for theft. Pleaded guilty in 3/2009. Sentenced to 3-6 years. Paroled in 12/2013. Said in 1/2019 to be living a life of prayer and penance. Included on the Our Lady of Guadalupe Province Franciscans list as of 1/2024. (Member of the Assumption Province.)

Fr. Martin O’Hara

Donate Photo

Ordained: 1941
Status: Settled

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Accused at some point of sexually abusing an altar boy, ages 9-11, at St. Francis of Assisi Parish. The abuse allegedly included forced oral sex and sodomy. A lawsuit in the case settled in 5/20 in the low six figures.

Assignments:

Garabedian Law Offices Assignment Record

Sources:

Garabedian Law Offices Assignment Record

Fr. John P. Paul

Ordained: 1972
Status: Settled

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Archdiocese received two allegations in 2013 that Paul allegedly abused children approximately 40 years prior, while in seminary. Reported to police; no charges filed. Placed under restrictions. Parish and school informed 11/7/13 after he voluntarily resigned. He denied all allegations. Spent many years as teacher and school minister. Faculties removed 12/15/13. Additional accusations surfaced. Found not suitable for ministry and permanently removed 02/23/14. Laicized in 2015. Lawsuit filed in 12/19 in NJ claims abuse in the early 1980s of a girl, starting when she was a high school sophomore in PA and continuing into her college years. Abuse allegedly occurred at an Ocean City NJ hotel and Christian Brothers retreat in NJ. Accused in a claim settled in 2020 in the low six figures of sexually abusing a boy, age 8, in 1967, while a seminarian. The abuse allegedly occurred on a trip to NJ and included sodomy.

Assignments:

Garabedian Law Offices Assignment Record

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Fr. Justin Paul Pechulis

Ordained: 1958
Status: Sued

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Accused in a 2008 lawsuit in NC of abusing an altar boy in the late 1970s. The boy, age 15 or 16, was from Philadelphia, and said Fr. John McCole abused him there, then took him to Ashville, NC where Pechulis and McCole forced the boy to participate in group oral sex while a third man watched. The suit also alleged that Cardinal Krol was told of the abuse but dismissed the allegations saying "That's just how men behave with each other." The Charlotte diocese found the allegations credible in 2008. The suit was dismissed in 2010. Pechulis died 4/30/83. Included on the Charlotte diocese's list 12/29/19. Added to the Raleigh diocese's list in 3/21.

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Fr. Stephen B. Perzan

Ordained: 1973
Status: Accused

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

The Archdiocese received two allegations of abuse by Perzan in Philadelphia at St. Gabriel's Hall for delinquent boys: one allegation in 2004 about abuse in 1991, and another allegation in 2005 about abuse in 1994-1995. The first alleged abuse in Philadelphia occurred during a time when Perzan is not indexed in the Official Catholic Directory, and the second alleged abuse in Philadelphia occurred when he was listed in the Directory as assigned to a parish in New Mexico. What's more, the report refers to a 1998 letter from a pastor, complaining about Perzan's behavior with children. The Directory does not list Perzan at the parish in question, but at a different parish. At the beginning of his career, Perzan had three one-year parish assignments, and his move to New Mexico coincides with a slight change in the Directory's spelling of his name. In 2003, with the first grand jury in session, Perzan started a two-year parish assignment in Puerto Rico. This is an extremely unusual Directory record and would be consistent with problems earlier and more numerous than those chronicled in the 2011 grand jury report. Yet the review board deemed the two known allegations unsubstantiated, and Perzan was still in ministry as of 2/12/2011.

Assignments:

BA.org Assignment Record

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Fr. Leonard Peterson

Ordained: 1967
Status: Unsubstantiated

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

One of 21 priests placed on administrative leave by the Philadelphia Archdiocese on 3/7/2011, pending the investigation of credible allegations involving sexual abuse or inappropriate behavior with minors. Peterson's last assignment was as pastor at St. Maria Goretti Parish in Hatfield. He spent much of his career at Catholic schools in the Philadelphia area. Found suitable for ministry on 7/6/2012 after the Review Board determined that misconduct claims against him were unsubstantiated.

Assignments:

Background on Priest from Archdiocese of Philadelphia 07.06.12

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Fr. Terrance Pinkowski

Order: OFM
Ordained: 1949
Status: Sued

Died: 08/2/1991
Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Accused in a 1992 civil suit of abusing a boy 1976-1981, beginning when the boy was a 14-year-old Archbishop Ryan High School student. Pinkowski was a teacher and counselor at the school. The alleged victim went to Franciscan officials and was promised payment for therapy and that they would take care of the priest. Instead, Pinkowski was transferred; the Franciscans refused to pay for therapy. Suit dismissed because of the statute of limitations. Pinkowski died in 1991. Included on the Franciscans' Our Lady of Guadalupe Province list of credibly accused as of 1/2024

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Fr. Theodore Podson

Order: SchP
Ordained: 1976
Status: Accused

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Left Devon Prep in Philadelphia in 1993 after allegations that he sexually abused a boy. No publicity and no charges. Was in the Amarillo diocese by 1995, working as a pastor and prison chaplain. Resigned in 6/2002 after the Dallas Bishops conference. By 2003 Podson was living in the Philippines with teenage boys he claimed to be mentoring. His name appeared on Msgr. Lynn's list of order and extern abusive priests. The order removed him in 8/2012 and sent him to live under supervision at residential treatment center. Included on the Buffalo diocese's list updated 11/5/2018.

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Fr. Anthony W. Polini

Order: OPraem
Ordained: 1949
Status: Accused

Died: 09/23/1977
Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Named publicly as credibly accused by St. Norbert Abbey in WI on its list 7/19/2019, which notes one allegation. Polini died 9/23/1977.

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Fr. Robert Povish

Ordained: 1990
Status: Accused

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

One of 21 priests placed on administrative leave by the Philadelphia Archdiocese on 3/7/2011, pending the investigation of credible allegations involving sexual abuse or inappropriate behavior with minors. Povish's last assignment was as a chaplain (state employed) to inmates at the Graterford Prison in Skippack and in residence at St. Eleanor Rectory in Collegeville. The Archdiocese announced on 5/4/2012 that the investigation found that he violated standards of ministry and was unsuitable for ministry.

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Fr. Richard T. Powers

Ordained: 1963
Status: Accused

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Powers' name was included on a 1994 list of 35 priests suspected or accused of abuse of minors. List compiled by Msgr. Lynn. Cardinal Bevilacqua ordered list destroyed at the time but copy turned over to prosecutors in 2012. Accused of sex with a 17-year-old girl in Venezuela while working with the Society of St. James in the late 1980s. Continued in active ministry until 3/12 when archdiocese was expected to remove him. Permanently removed in 4/13.

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Fr. John D. Reardon

Ordained: 1973
Status: Accused

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

One of 21 priests placed on administrative leave by the Philadelphia Archdiocese on 3/7/11, pending investigation for allegations involving minors. Reardon's last assignment was as pastor at St. John of the Cross Parish in Roslyn. His name is included on a secret 1994 memo from Fr. Wm. Lynn to Msgr. James Molloy (released 2/27/12) regarding priests in secret archives who were accused of sexual misconduct with a minor. On 5/4/12 the Archdiocese found the allegations against Reardon substantiated and that he was unsuitable for ministry. Canonical process pending. The Archdiocese did not provide details of the allegations. In 2011 a news outlet reported that in the early 1990s a woman alleged that Reardon sexually abused her when she was 9 years old.

Assignments:

BA.org Assignment Record

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Fr. Francis P. Rogers

Ordained: 1946
Status: Accused

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Accused of abuse of numerous young boys, beginning just after his ordination and continuing for decades. Retired 1995. One man complained to Archdiocese in 1998 and Rogers was moved to a retirement home. Died 2005.

Assignments:

Philadelphia Archdiocesan Priest Data Profile

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Fr. Thomas Rooney

Donate Photo

Ordained: 1991
Status: Accused

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

One of 21 priests placed on administrative leave by Philadelphia archdiocese 3/7/11 pending investigation for credible allegations involving inappropriate behavior with minors. Last assignment was as chaplain at the Immaculate Mary Home, a Catholic nursing facility for the elderly, in Northeast Philadelphia. Archdiocese announced 5/4/12 that allegations he violated standards of ministry were substantiated and he was unsuitable for ministry.

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Fr. Robert F. Ryan

Ordained: 1947
Status: Settled

Died: 12/25/2005
Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Accused in a claim settled in 2020 in the low five figures of sexually abusing an altar boy, age 14, in 1962-63, while assigned to Holy Cross in Springfield, PA. The alleged abuse occurred in the parish school, where the boy was a student. It involved making the boy strip off his clothes, whipping the boy's back and buttocks with a belt, then placing his hand on the boy's body where he had been whipped. Ryan died in 12/2005.

Assignments:

Garabedian Law Offices Assignment Record

Sources:

Garabedian List 01.19.21

Fr. Joseph F. Sabadish

Ordained: 1945
Status: Sued

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Accused of abuse of a young brother and sister in early 1960s. Also a suspect in the rape and murder of a young girl but never charged. He did pass a polygraph. Died 1999. Named in 2006 civil suit. Suit dismissed by lower court and dismissal upheld by 3rd Circuit Court of Appeals 11/07.

Assignments:

Philadelphia Archdiocesan Priest Data Profile

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Fr. William L. Santry

Ordained: 1956
Status: Accused

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

In 2005 a woman reported to the archdiocese that Santry sexually abused her in the late 1960s, when she was a 16-year-old Our Lady of Loreto parishioner in South Philadelphia. Santry admitted to the abuse. The woman said she was also molested during that time at the same parish by Rev. Joseph DiGregorio. Santry told investigators in 2005 that he recalled that the girl had spent time in the rectory with DiGregorio and that he thought there was something like "fondling" going on. Santry had voluntarily left the priesthood in 1971. His laicization by the Vatican was announced 2006. Santry's name was included in the Philadelphia Grand Jury Report II, released 2/10/11.

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Fr. Martin J. Satchell

Ordained: 1993
Status: Sued

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Accused in 1993 (year of ordination) of "credible allegations of misconduct involving a minor [boy]." Placed on administrative leave 1993 (after 4 months on job) through 2003. Laicized at his request 9/16/04. Taught in several prestigious schools between 1993 and 2004. Named in a lawsuit filed 2/14/11. Name included on secret 1994 memo from Wm. Lynn to Msgr. James Molloy (released 2/27/12) regarding priests in secret archives who were guilty of sexual misconduct with a minor.

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Fr. Charles J. Schaeflein

Ordained: 1949
Status: Accused

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Monsignor. Accused of abuse of a minor some time prior to 1990. Retired in 1989. Placed on leave in 2005 when allegation first became known. Per news in 4/06, Schaefle (at age 86 or 87) agreed to a supervised life of prayer and penance. Name is included on secret 1994 memo from Wm. Lynn to Msgr. James Molloy (released 2/27/12) regarding priests in secret archives who were accused of sexual misconduct with a minor with no conclusive evidence. Died 8/10/13.

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Fr. John P. Schmeer

Ordained: 1964
Status: Sued

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Multiple allegations. Sued in 2004. Accused of abuse of three boys, in 1966-67 and 1986. First allegations found not credible in 2003; investigation in 2004 found latest allegation credible. Ministry permanently restricted. In 2/05 and still in 12/19 living supervised life of prayer and penance. Three men filed two new suits against Schmeer 9/18/12. Suit filed 12/19; per plaintiff, in 1981 Rev. Francis Trauger sexually abused a boy, age 11, so his parents sent him to speak with Schmeer, who then also abused him.

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Fr. Thomas F. Shea

Ordained: 1964
Status: Accused

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Accused of abuse of six boys in the 1970s. Admitted molesting two altar boys from 1972 to 1977. Placed on leave in 1994 and retired with restrictions in 1995. Further restrictions added in 2004; Shea agreed to permanent restriction of ministry and to live a supervised life. Documents regarding his history were introduced in trial of Msgr. Lynn in Philadelphia in 4/12. He admitted paying hush money to at least one other victim.

Assignments:

Philadelphia Archdiocesan Priest Data Profile

Sources:

Fr. David C. Sicoli

Ordained: 1975
Status: Accused

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Accused of abuse of at least 12 boys in their mid-teens. Placed on administrative leave in 2004. Further restrictions added in 2/05. Case was referred to the Vatican for review. Laicization announced in 2/08. Named in new Grand Jury report 2/10/11. Name is included on secret 1994 memo from Wm. Lynn to Msgr. James Molloy (released 2/27/12) regarding priests in secret archives who were accused of sexual misconduct with a minor with no conclusive evidence.

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Fr. Charles J. Siegele

Ordained: 1953
Status: Settled

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Accused of abuse of 6-7 boys in the 1950s -60s. One claim settled in 1990s. Named in civil suit filed 2004. Named in 2006 class action suit. Dismissed by lower court, then by Third Circuit Court of Appeals 11/07. Died 1/28/89. Name (as Siegle) is included on secret 1994 memo from Wm. Lynn to Msgr. James Molloy (released 2/27/12) regarding priests in secret archives who sexually abused minors. At least one accuser, who alleged he was plied with alcohol and sodomized by Siegele as a boy, received funds in 2019 via the archdiocese's time-limited compensation fund.

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Fr. Raymond W. Smart

Ordained: 1970
Status: Accused

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

The archdiocese announced in 1/19 that Smart had been deemed "not suitable for ministry" after an internal investigation into claims that he had sexually abused a minor in the 1980s. Had been on health leave since 1995. Retired in 2002. Had been accused twice previously of inappropriate conduct. The review board said in 2011 accusations of sexual abuse of a minor were unsubstantiated. In 2017 review board said there was evidence he had engaged in misconduct with an adult and restricted his access to church facilities.

Assignments:

Horowitz Law 01.14.19

Sources:

Philadelphia Inquirer 01.13.19

Fr. Edward J. Smith

Order: OPraem
Ordained: 1973
Status: Settled

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

In 2002, a man reported abuse by Smith at a Philadelphia high school in the early 1980s. He said he also saw Smith sexually abuse two other boys in the presence of another priest. Four more complaints from students were filed against Smith. Also allegedly abused in DE. Named in a 2005 civil DE suit. Much of suit dismissed by court in 11/06. Default granted against priest 1/07. A $41M jury verdict awarded 3/30/07. Settled with diocese in 1/08. Settled 9/08 with the Norbertines and school. On the St. Norbert Abbey in WI list 7/19/19. It notes multiple allegations, and that Smith was restricted from ministry.

Fr. Thomas J. Smith

Ordained: 1973
Status: Accused

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Revealed in the 2005 Philadelphia Grand Jury report to have engaged in “depraved and sadistic behavior” with at least three boys age 12-13. The report cites the 2004 archdiocesan Review Board assessment that it “unanimously found credible allegations that ‘Smith took at least three boys playing the role of Jesus in the parish Passion play into a private room, required them to disrobe completely,’ pinned loincloths around them, and then, during the play, encouraged ‘other boys in the play to whip the Jesus character to the point where some of the boys had cuts, bruises and welts.’ These actions, the Review Board found, ‘occurred in multiple parish assignments with a number of different boys over a number of years.’” The sadistic behavior, including pricking the boys with pins and drawing blood, was repeated during practices and at performances, sometimes at additional parishes and at Villanova University. Smith was also accused of abusing boys on vacation trips and as the sole adult on camping trips, and of obliging boys to strip naked for hot tub sessions at a club. Despite allegations received by the archdiocese beginning in 2002, Smith was still in residence at a parish until December 2004. More details were made public when portions of the Smith file were read into evidence at the Msgr. William Lynn trial in 2012, including one survivor’s estimate that he knew of as many as 16 other victims. In addition to seven parish assignments, Smith held positions as Boy Scout chaplain, chaplain at Archbishop Prendergast High School (twice), regional vicar, and Associate Director of the Catholic Youth Organization (twice). Smith was laicized on 3/29/2007. In 2023 and 2024, actor and playwright Jay Sefton performed in his play Unreconciled, based on his experiences with Smith and the archdiocese.

Fr. DePaul Sobotka

Order: OFM
Ordained: 1963
Status: Accused

Died: 01/2/2020
Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Taught for years at Archbishop Ryan High School in Philadelphia. Name appeared on Msgr. Lynn's 1994 list of extern/order priests who were accused of abuse of children. No public accusations known until 2012. Order and Archdiocese acknowledge that Sobotka was once accused of misconduct with an adult but never a child. Retired with no public ministry. Died 1/2/2020 in Burlington WI. Included as of 1/2024 on the Our Lady of Guadalupe Province Franciscans' list of credibly accused.

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Fr. Louis M. Steingraber

Ordained: 1973
Status: Accused

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Accused of abuse of two boys in their early teens in 1982 and a 16-year-old boy on another occasion. Placed on health leave in 1983, was reassigned to another position then left active ministry 1984. Died in 9/87 at age 41.

Assignments:

Philadelphia Archdiocesan Priest Data Profile

Sources:

Philadelphia Grand Jury Report

Fr. Michael W. Swierzy

Ordained: 1975
Status: Convicted

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Former high school principal. Sexually abused a boy who was in fifth grade and an altar server. Archdiocese notified 4/9/97. Pled guilty in 1998; received five years probation. Other accusations received. On leave 1997-2003. Named in civil suit filed prior to 3/02. Archdiocese found accusations credible in 2004. Sent case to Vatican for review. Laicization announced in early 2005. Died 7/25/05.

Assignments:

Philadelphia Archdiocesan Priest Data Profile

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Fr. Peter Talocci

Ordained: 1986
Status: Accused

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

One of 21 priests placed on administrative leave by the Philadelphia archdiocese 3/7/11 pending investigation of credible allegations involving sexual abuse or inappropriate behavior with minors. Last assignment was as parochial vicar at St. Patrick's in Malvern. Review Board could not prove accusations but permanently removed him 12/13 for violations of standards of ministerial behavior.

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Fr. Arthur I. Taraborelli

Ordained: 1964
Status: Settled

Died: 09/28/2006
Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Per a claim settled in 10/2019 in the low six figures, Taraborelli sexually abused an altar boy, ages 13-14, many times 1975-1976. Taraborelli was assigned at the time of the alleged abuse to Our Lady of Loreto Parish. He died 9/28/2006.

Assignments:

Garabedian Law Offices Assignment Record

Sources:

Garabedian Law Offices Assignment Record

Fr. Carmen F. Taraborelli

Ordained: 1970
Status: Accused

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Accused of abuse of 5th grade boy in the 1980s. Reported in 1999. Placed on administrative leave in 1999. As of 2004 ministry was permanently restricted and he was living a supervised life.

Assignments:

Philadelphia Archdiocesan Priest Data Profile

Sources:

Philadelphia Grand Jury Report

Fr. Joseph W. Thomas

Ordained: 1955
Status: Accused

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Included on Philadelphia Archdiocese website list of accused priests. Placed on leave three times between 1963 and 1972. Faculties removed by Archdiocese in 1972. Left active ministry. Died in 12/96. Name is included on a secret 1994 memo from Rev. William Lynn to Msgr. James Molloy (released 2/27/12) regarding priests in secret archives who were accused of sexual misconduct with a minor, with no conclusive evidence.

Assignments:

Philadelphia Archdiocesan Priest Data Profile

Sources:

Fr. Francis X. Trauger

Ordained: 1972
Status: Convicted

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Accused of abuse of two or three boys in early 1980s and another in 1991. Allegedly took boys on overnight trips, shared a bed with them. Removed in 2003. Laicized 5/20/05. Named in at least two civil suits. Name included on secret 1994 memo from Msgr. Lynn (released 2/27/12) regarding priests in secret archives who were accused of abuse but no credible evidence found. In 2012 two men testified in Msgr. Lynn's trial about abuse by Trauger. Accused in new suit filed 9/18/12. Charged in 9/19 with abuse of two Tullytown altar boys, ages 11 and 12, one in 1996 and the other in 2000. Living in Brooklyn NY in 9/19. Suit filed 12/19. Pled gulty in 7/20. Sentenced to 18-36 months in state prison and 7 years probation.

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Fr. Aloysius H. Vath

Ordained: 1940
Status: Accused

Died: 05/28/1992
Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Confirmed as an abuser of young boys over a period of 18 years, per a secret 1994 memo from Wm. Lynn to Msgr. James Molloy (released 2/27/2012) regarding priests in secret archives who were guilty of sexual misconduct with a minor. Died 5/28/1992.

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Fr. David E. Walls

Ordained: 1960
Status: Accused

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Accused of 1987-1988 abuse of an adolescent brother and sister and another individual. Placed on administrative leave in 1988. Administrative leave continued 2002 with restrictions and further restrictions added 2004. Laicized 7/19/06. Died 2/21/09.

Assignments:

Archdiocese of Philadelphia Assignment Record

Sources:

Fr. Sylwester Wiejata

Ordained: 1996
Status: Accused

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Accused of abuse of a 13-year-old girl in 2000. In treatment in 1999 and on leave by 2000. Laicized in 2002. Testimony in 2012 trial of Msgr. Lynn shows he had attraction to women, particularly married women and that the girl he admitted (to Msgr. Lynn) abusing was the daughter of one woman with whom he had a sexual relationship. Msgr. Lynn admitted at trial that he did not report to police or attempt to learn identity of the girl because he doubted the credibility of the woman who first told him about Wiejata.

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Fr. Thomas J. Wisniewski

Ordained: 1974
Status: Accused

Diocese: Archdiocese of Philadelphia PA

Accused of sexual abuse of a boy 1983-87, beginning when the boy was age 15. Placed on leave in 2002 with restrictions. Restrictions increased in 2004. Ministry permanently restricted and he was living a supervised life. Name is on secret 1994 memo from Wm. Lynn to Msgr. James Molloy (released 2/27/12) regarding priests in secret archives who were guilty of sexual misconduct with a minor. Testimony about him in 2012 Msgr. Lynn trial.

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Our Database of Publicly Accused does not state or imply that individuals facing allegations are guilty of a crime or liable for civil claims. The reports contained in the database are merely allegations. The U.S. legal system presumes that a person accused of or charged with a crime is innocent until proven guilty. Similarly, individuals who may be defendants in civil actions are presumed not to be liable for such claims unless a plaintiff proves otherwise. Admissions of guilt or liability are not typically a part of civil or private settlements. For more information, see our posting policy.