List of Accused Priests in Wisconsin
Clergy sexual abuse has profoundly impacted Wisconsin, spanning across various religious institutions and affecting countless lives. Survivors of these traumatic experiences often endure profound emotional and psychological scars stemming from betrayal by individuals in positions of trust and authority.
At Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers, we stand in solidarity with survivors, offering unwavering support and a steadfast commitment to pursuing justice against perpetrators and institutions responsible for these heinous acts.
Last Name | First Name | Diocese | Status | Accusations (Summary) |
---|---|---|---|---|
Adamsky | Raymond J. | Archdiocese of Milwaukee WI | Accused | Adamsky was accused of molestation in 11 parishes in 34 years and was fully restricted from priestly ministry in 1993. He died 10/3/14. |
Anderson | Basil Joseph | Archdiocese of Milwaukee WI | Accused | St. Benedict’s Abbey of Benet Lake WI named him as credibly accused on 1/24/23. |
Anich | Kenneth J. | Archdiocese of Milwaukee WI | Accused | Anich is banned from public ministry and contact with minors by the Society of the Divine Word’s Chicago Province. |
Arimond | James L. | Archdiocese of Milwaukee WI | Convicted | Placed on leave in 1/90, suspended in 7/90, pleaded no contest in 10/90, laicized in 1996, and ordered to surrender his license in 7/03. |
Bandle | Ronald J. | Archdiocese of Milwaukee WI | Accused | Reportedly had a “relationship” with a 12-year-old in Waukesha in 1987. Ministry and contact with minors were restricted in 1993. |
Beck | James W. | Archdiocese of Milwaukee WI | Accused | Name appears on list of priests fully restricted from ministry because of credible allegations of abuse. No date shown for leaving priestly ministry. |
Becker | Franklyn W. | Archdiocese of Milwaukee WI | Arrested | Becker was removed in 7/02 for alleged abuse. He was arrested in 5/03 on charges he abused a teenage boy in San Diego CA in the late 1970s; case ended in 7/03 by Supreme Court’s Stogner decision. |
Benham | Michael C. | Archdiocese of Milwaukee WI | Accused | The Archdiocese removed Benham from ministry after a substantiated allegation of sexual abuse. The D.A’s office could not prosecute because the statute of limitations had expired. |
Beyer | Martin | Archdiocese of Milwaukee WI | Accused | Fr. Baldwin Beyer was identified as a deceased friar with confirmed reports of sexual abuse of minors and vulnerable adults. |
Bistricky | Frederick J. | Archdiocese of Milwaukee WI | Settled | Multiple allegations of sexual abuse of boys date to at least 1974. In 1997 the archdiocese received allegations Bistricky abused a boy, ages 13-16, in the early 1970s, but no prosecution due to SOL. |
Lenga | Antonine | Archdiocese of Milwaukee WI | Accused | Lenga was named publicly as credibly accused by the Franciscans’ Our Lady of Guadalupe List as of 1/16/2024. He died in 1981 at age 67. |
Brey | Floyd A. | Archdiocese of Milwaukee WI | Accused | Brey was named publicly as credibly accused by the Jesuits Midwest Province on its list updated 2/21/2020, and by the Memphis diocese on 2/28/2020. He died 12/14/1996. |
Budzynski | Daniel A. | Archdiocese of Milwaukee WI | Sued | Known abuser as of 1969, included on Milwaukee archdiocese’s list of priests fully restricted from ministry in 2004. Retired in 1994. |
Burns | Peter A. | Archdiocese of Milwaukee WI | Convicted | Burns molested another youth at the St. Peter Claver Parish rectory in Sheboygan and was sentenced to 9 months in jail and 10 years probation. One victim died by suicide. |
Buser | James | Archdiocese of Milwaukee WI | Sued | Buser, Gale Leifeld and Jim Wolf are accused of molesting a boy in 1978 while he was a student in a Capuchin-run high school and later at a boarding house. |
Collova | S. Joseph | Archdiocese of Milwaukee WI | Sued | Collova was barred from public ministry in 1994 and fully restricted from ministry per 2004. He cut his ties with the Catholic Church by joining another denomination or sect. |
Donovan | John T. | Archdiocese of Milwaukee WI | Sued | A woman sued Donovan in 1992, but the Wisconsin Supreme Court ruled that one could not accuse a religious entity with negligent hiring or training. |
III | Andrew P. Doyle, | Archdiocese of Milwaukee WI | Accused | Doyle was laicized after multiple allegations of abuse surfaced in the 1990s. He died 6/17/10. |
Effinger | William J. | Archdiocese of Milwaukee WI | Convicted | Accused of molesting numerous boys and girls, plied children with alcohol, transferred multiple times, sentenced to 10 years in jail, died of cancer in prison, some of personnel file released in 7/13. |
Eichenberger | Tom | Archdiocese of Milwaukee WI | Reinstated | Archbishop Listecki placed Pastor St. Francis Borgia, Cedarburg on leave during an investigation of alleged sexual abuse of a 7th-grade boy in 1977, but found the accusations “unsubstantiated”. |
Engel | Ronald | Archdiocese of Milwaukee WI | Accused | Engel was placed on leave in late 2004 after being accused of possessing child pornography on a computer. |
Farrell | William J. | Archdiocese of Milwaukee WI | Sued | Farrell was retired in 1990 and died in 1999. A plaintiff claimed abuse by Farrell in 1973 when he was 11 years old. |
Etzel | George A. | Archdiocese of Milwaukee WI | Accused | Etzel retired in 1984 and died in 2003 at age 85. His name appears on a list of priests restricted from ministry because of credible allegations of abuse. |
Flynt | James M. | Archdiocese of Milwaukee WI | Accused | Parishioners and staff at Flynt’s first two parish assignments complained to the bishop about Flynt’s behavior. Flynt was laicized on 6/24/04. |
Giannini | Norma | Archdiocese of Milwaukee WI | Convicted | After complaints, he was removed from ministry, sent for treatment, and retired. In 2006 he was accused of sexually abusing two male students, and was sentenced to 1 year in jail, 9 years probation. |
Gardipee | Thomas J. | Archdiocese of Milwaukee WI | Settled | Accused of sexual misconduct with students, charged with enticing a child for immoral purposes and intimidation, judge dismissed case, lawsuit expanded to accuse Capuchins of coverup, left Capuchins in 2001, taught in private Hawaii High School from 2002. |
Furdek | John M. | Archdiocese of Milwaukee WI | Convicted | Priest of the Joliet Diocese, who used the internet to set up a meeting with a 14-year-old boy, was sentenced to 15 years in prison on charges of attempted sexual assault. He was permanently removed from ministry. |
Gawlik | Rene (Bernard) | Archdiocese of Milwaukee WI | Accused | Abuse occurred in the 1960s-1970s in East Troy, WI, according to the IL Attorney General’s Report. |
Gibeault | Leonard | Archdiocese of Milwaukee WI | Accused | Gibeault was identified as a former friar with confirmed reports of sexual abuse of minors, and was restricted from ministry and then left the order. |
Godin | James M. | Archdiocese of Milwaukee WI | Accused | Godin resigned in 2002 and acknowledged involvement in “inappropriate behavior” with a 17-year-old boy 19 years before. He was fully restricted from priestly ministry by 2004. |
Gottschalk | Matthew | Archdiocese of Milwaukee WI | Accused | Gottschalk co-founded House of Peace in 1968 and admitted to committing inappropriate acts against minors. He retired as head of House of Peace in 1993. |
Haas | Joseph H. | Archdiocese of Milwaukee WI | Accused | Haas was placed on leave in 2004 due to allegations that he molested a young girl in 1977. The D.A. ruled that the incident was too old to prosecute. |
Haen | Edmund H. | Archdiocese of Milwaukee WI | Accused | Haen abused at least three boys in the 1940s, and was forced to retire in 1990. He was placed on severe restrictions in 1992 and died in 1997. |
Hanel | Charles T. | Archdiocese of Milwaukee WI | Charges Dropped | Assigned to Queen of Apostles in Pewaukee when arrested 9/18, charged with second degree sexual assault of a child. Pleaded not guilty in 1/19, mistrial in 3/20, returned to ministry in 8/20. |
Herbst | Harold | Archdiocese of Milwaukee WI | Settled | Name included on archdiocese’s 7/04 list of priests fully restricted from ministry because of credible allegations of abuse. |
Hanser | David J. | Archdiocese of Milwaukee WI | Settled | Four brothers came forward in 1988 with allegations that Hanser abused them as boys about 30 years prior. Hanser retired without privileges in 2002 and was laicized in 2005. |
Hermanns | Mel W. | Archdiocese of Milwaukee WI | Accused | Pastor of Our Lady Gate of Heaven in Chicago, removed in 9/2012, living under supervision, and identified in 6/18/2013 Report as a current friar with confirmed reports of sexual abuse of minors. |
Hopf | George S. | Archdiocese of Milwaukee WI | Settled | Placed on sick leave in 1976 after a stroke, and named on the Archdiocese’s list of priests fully restricted from ministry in 2004. Died in 2004. |
Jablonowski | James N. | Archdiocese of Milwaukee WI | Accused | Two people came forward with allegations of sexual abuse by Jablonowski in the 1970s. Jablonowski was placed on leave, but the D.A. did not pursue charges due to the statute of limitations. |
Joyce | Robert E. | Archdiocese of Milwaukee WI | Accused | Entered the order in 1953. Named publicly as accused by the Jesuits Midwest Province on its list 12/17/2018. Multiple allegations of abuse, occurring while assigned to Marquette University High School 1963-1965. Dismissed from the order 7/5/1965. |
Joda | Robert J. | Archdiocese of Milwaukee WI | Accused | Taught at Campion Jesuit High School in Prairie du Chien, WI, and was named publicly as accused by the Jesuits Midwest Province on its list 12/17/2018. |
Janette | Paul D. | Archdiocese of Milwaukee WI | Accused | The archdiocese received multiple allegations of sexual abuse of minors by Janette, who was ordered by the Vatican to a life of prayer and penance in 2015. |
Keyes | Phillip C. | Archdiocese of Milwaukee WI | Convicted | Ordained for the Diocese of Madison, left in 1976, and became a priest in the Society of St. Pius X. He was convicted of first degree sexual assault of a 10-year-old boy in 1993. |
Knotek | John T. | Archdiocese of Milwaukee WI | Accused | Assigned to St. James Parish in Menomonee Falls 1968-72, where he was later accused of sexual abuse of young girls. He denied the allegations. |
Knighton | Marvin T. | Archdiocese of Milwaukee WI | Acquitted | Knighton was charged with sexual assault of a teenage boy more than 10 years prior. He was laicized in 2011 and claimed Milwaukee owed him $450K in past wages and benefits. |
Krejci | Michael J. | Archdiocese of Milwaukee WI | Accused | Krejci admitted to inappropriately touching two teenagers in 1979, was removed from his parish in 1991, went to treatment for sexual issues and alcohol in 1996, and was reassigned to ministry in 1996. |
Kolb | Michael R. | Archdiocese of Milwaukee WI | Accused | Kolb was named publicly as accused by the Jesuits Midwest Province on its list 12/17/2018. He was permanently removed from public ministry. |
Kreuzer | Eugene T. | Archdiocese of Milwaukee WI | Accused | Allegation of abuse in 1969 became public in 2004. Kreuzer was given a leave of absence and then a new parish assignment before retiring in 1992. |
Konat | Edward J. | Archdiocese of Milwaukee WI | Accused | Accused several times of sexual abuse while assigned to the Salt Lake diocese, and was expelled by the Jesuits in 1981. There was a single allegation of abuse occurring in 1974 while assigned to Marquette University HS in Milwaukee, WI. |
Krusing | Oswald G. | Archdiocese of Milwaukee WI | Accused | Krusing was included on the Archdiocese’s 7/04 list of priests fully restricted from ministry because of credible allegations of abuse. He retired in 1970 and died in 1995 at age 96. |
Lawecki | Kevin | Archdiocese of Milwaukee WI | Accused | Died in 1961, age 37. Named publicly as credibly accused by the Franciscans as of 1/2024. Member of the Assumption Province. (Placing Lawecki in the Milwaukee archdiocese for now, where the province is based.) |
Lemanski | William E. | Archdiocese of Milwaukee WI | Accused | Lemanski lived under supervision at a rectory close to a school for 11 years after admitting he abused a minor. |
Lesniewski | Eldred B. | Archdiocese of Milwaukee WI | Sued | Lesniewski abused minor altar boys at St. Joseph’s Orphanage and was included on the Archdiocese’s 7/04 list of priests fully restricted from ministry. |
Lanser | Jerome E. | Archdiocese of Milwaukee WI | Settled | Lanser was accused of sexually assaulting a boy, ages 8-13, during 1964-69. He was retired in 2000 and remained fully restricted from ministry until his death 3/12/12. |
LaReau | James | Archdiocese of Milwaukee WI | Accused | LaReau was accused in 1992 of performing oral sex on a 16-year-old student at St. Lawrence Seminary Preparatory School in the 1970s. He died in 1987. |
Leifeld | Gale | Archdiocese of Milwaukee WI | Sued | A civil suit was tried in 1995 against Leifeld, Jim Buser and James Wolf, alleging they molested a student at St. Lawrence Seminary. The suit was found too late under the statute of limitations. |
Molling | Mark L. | Archdiocese of Milwaukee WI | Reinstated | After allegations of sexual molestation, Molling was removed from assignment at St. Paul Parish in Genesee Depot, WI, but the review board deemed the allegations not credible. |
Massie | Daniel J. | Archdiocese of Milwaukee WI | Settled | Multiple allegations of abuse, laicization, and treatment for alcoholism and sexual issues. Allowed to work for the state as a social worker and substance abuse counselor until 2/17. |
Morfin | John N. | Archdiocese of Milwaukee WI | Accused | Morfin was named publicly as accused by the Jesuits Midwest Province on 2/21/2020. |
Mika | Joseph F. | Archdiocese of Milwaukee WI | Accused | Mika was accused of abusing a girl at a Catholic school in 2004. The Franciscans paid nearly $16K for counseling, but declined to pay for additional counseling in 2009. |
Murphy | Lawrence C. | Archdiocese of Milwaukee WI | Settled | Murphy resigned as director of St. John School for Deaf in 1974 after complaints by students. He abused at least two boys in the Archdiocese of Milwaukee and the Diocese of Superior, and died in 1998. |
Musinski | Donald T. | Archdiocese of Milwaukee WI | Accused | A woman reported Musinski’s abuse to the Archdiocese in 1997. He retired in 1999 and died in 2006. |
Pina | Cypriano Molelos | Archdiocese of Milwaukee WI | Accused | A Benedictine monk was named publicly as credibly accused of sexual abuse in the 1960s. |
Neuberger | Michael T. | Archdiocese of Milwaukee WI | Sued | Accused of sexually abusing a boy 1964-66 and a boy 1968. Dismissed from the clerical state in 1998 and given the status of “fully restricted from public ministry” in 2008. |
Nichols | Richard W. | Archdiocese of Milwaukee WI | Accused | Parish priest, child psychologist, was accused of raping a boy at age 13 in 1966 and of sexually abusing two other boys in the 1970s. He was allowed to continue in ministry but surrendered his psychology license and was removed from ministry in 1996. |
Nickerson | David J. | Archdiocese of Milwaukee WI | Convicted | Nickerson confessed to abusing a 9 or 10-year-old boy in the mid-1980s at St. Vincent De Paul school, but was arrested and sentenced to 5 years in prison after another “Brother Dave” was arrested. |
O’Brien | John A. | Archdiocese of Milwaukee WI | Convicted | A pastor was sentenced to 18 months probation and $1,000 fine for indecently touching a 17-year-old boy. |
Nowak | Michael E. | Archdiocese of Milwaukee WI | Convicted | A 14-year-old girl’s parents complained to police that their pastor had made inappropriate telephone calls to their daughter. A second girl, age 17, filed a complaint and Nowak was sentenced to 30 days in jail and one year probation. |
Nuedling | George A. | Archdiocese of Milwaukee WI | Settled | Nuedling was accused of abuse by five people before he died in 1994. A number of lawsuits were filed, but all were dismissed due to the statute of limitations. |
Palakunnel | Zacharias | Archdiocese of Milwaukee WI | Accused | Palakunnel was named publicly as accused by the Jesuits Midwest Province on its list 12/17/2018. |
Palathingal | Simon | Archdiocese of Milwaukee WI | Convicted | Arrested in 6/04, charged with sexual assault of a young boy in 1990-91 in Milwaukee, lived in India for some time, then lived and worked in several U.S.states from 1993-2004, sentenced to 16 years prison in 2004. |
Padlo | January | Archdiocese of Milwaukee WI | Accused | Padlo was named publicly as credibly accused on the Franciscans’ list of the Our Lady of Guadalupe Province as of 1/2024. |
Pepowski | Bert | Archdiocese of Milwaukee WI | Accused | Franciscan priest named publicly as credibly accused by the Our Lady of Guadalupe Province Franciscans. |
Pool | Jefferson | Archdiocese of Milwaukee WI | Accused | Pool was named publicly as credibly accused of the sexual abuse of minors in 5/2021. He is prohibited from public ministry. |
Peters | Donald R. A. | Archdiocese of Milwaukee WI | Accused | Peters was retired in 1993 after an anonymous report of sexual abuse by Peters. He admitted in 2002 that he took graphic sexual photos of at least four teenage boys. |
Robinson | Perry L. | Archdiocese of Milwaukee WI | Accused | Robinson was assigned to St. Gerald in Ralston, NE in 2/2011, but was removed in early 2012 after allegations of abuse in the 1980s in Milwaukee. He was sent to live in the Jesuit Community at Creighton, but had no faculties to minister. |
Schreiter | John P. | Archdiocese of Milwaukee WI | Accused | A man told the Archdiocese of sexual abuse in the early 1980s. Schreiter denied all claims, was reinstated, and removed again due to a different sexual abuse allegation, involving a minor. |
Silvestri | Vincent A. | Archdiocese of Milwaukee WI | Settled | Named on Archdiocese’s 7/04 list of priests fully restricted from ministry because of credible allegations of abuse. Suffered stroke, retired, died at age 63. |
Schouten | Clarence J. | Archdiocese of Milwaukee WI | Settled | Schouten was accused of molesting three girls in the 1950s while assigned to St. Joseph’s in Milwaukee/Wauwatosa. One of the women settled for $125K in 2004. |
Schneider | Roger W. | Archdiocese of Milwaukee WI | Accused | Schneider was listed on the Archdiocese’s list of priests restricted from ministry because of credible allegations of abuse. He was laicized. |
Trepanier | Thomas A. | Archdiocese of Milwaukee WI | Accused | A man told the archdiocese he was abused by Trepanier at St. Robert Parish in Shorewood, and Trepanier resigned from his position in 2002. He remained fully restricted from ministry as of 3/12. |
Turkalj | Camillus (Michael) | Archdiocese of Milwaukee WI | Accused | Worked in IL, MA, WI, IA, MI, OH, CA, PA, and was named publicly as credibly accused by the Order in 2021. |
Turner | Joseph | Archdiocese of Milwaukee WI | Accused | Auxiliary Bishop Sklba admitted in 2002 that he believed Turner had sexually assaulted a youth in the 1960s. Turner died in 2001. |
Verdieck | Arthur O. | Archdiocese of Milwaukee WI | Accused | The Jesuits Central and Southern Province named him as accused on its list 12/7/18. He died in 1980. |
Wenig | Laurin J. | Archdiocese of Milwaukee WI | Accused | Multiple allegations of sexual abuse of minors were made against Wenig, including nude swimming with a 15-year-old in 1978-79, and “stroking stomach” in 1981. No criminal charges were filed due to the statute of limitations. |
Wagner | John C. | Archdiocese of Milwaukee WI | Accused | Name included on the Archdiocese’s list of priests fully restricted from ministry because of credible allegations of abuse. Laicized in 12/12. |
Walter | Charles W. | Archdiocese of Milwaukee WI | Settled | Included on Archdiocese’s 7/04 list of priests fully restricted from ministry because of credible allegations of abuse. Retired in 1999. |
Wagner | Jerome A. | Archdiocese of Milwaukee WI | Accused | Wagner was removed from Priest Placement Board and worked in a parish after being accused of getting a 15-year-old boy drunk and molesting him. He received $20K to seek laicization. |
Weber | Didacus | Archdiocese of Milwaukee WI | Accused | Weber was removed from public ministry in 2006 after being named publicly as credibly accused. |
Widera | Siegfried Francis | Archdiocese of Milwaukee WI | Convicted | Widera was convicted of sexually abusing an 11-year-old boy in 1973, removed from ministry in 1985, indicted on 42 counts of child molestation in 2002, fled to Mexico, died by suicide in 2003. There were 9 civil suits filed in CA and 3 in WI. |
Zimmer | Luke | Archdiocese of Milwaukee WI | Sued | Zimmer worked in NH, MA, HI, MN, CA and WI as a priest and instructor, and was accused of abusing a woman in 1979-80. |
Becker | Donald E. | Diocese of Green Bay WI | Accused | Named publicly as accused on the diocese’s list 1/17/19. Multiple substantiated allegations of abuse 1972-1978. Becker went on leave in 1987 and resigned from the priesthood in 1989. He was laicized in 2005. |
Becker | Simon C. | Diocese of Green Bay WI | Accused | Named publicly as credibly accused by the Norbertines of St. Norbert’s Abbey in WI on its list 7/19/19. Multiple allegations. Died 7/22/91. |
Bouche | Dennis G. | Diocese of Green Bay WI | Accused | Bouche was named publicly as accused by the Green Bay diocese in its list 1/17/19. He died 4/2/95. |
Boyea | David J. | Diocese of Green Bay WI | Convicted | Boyea was accused of abusing 9-12 boys over five years, and was sentenced to 10 years in jail. He was included on the Green Bay diocese’s list in 1990, and was laicized in 1985. |
Browne | Stanley Thomas | Diocese of Green Bay WI | Accused | Per diocese, Brown was accused of abusing one minor in the early 1980s. He was ordered by the Vatican to a life of prayer and penance in 2009. |
Buzanowski | Donald J. | Diocese of Green Bay WI | Convicted | Suspended in 1992, convicted in 2000 on child porn charge, laicized in 2005, sentenced to 32 years in prison, released in 2012, found living one block from victim’s grandmother, moved to state-run facility for criminal offenders in 2014. |
Carson | Robert E. | Diocese of Green Bay WI | Accused | Named publicly as credibly accused by the Norbertines of St. Norbert’s Abbey WI on its list 7/19/19. Multiple allegations. Deceased. |
Carroll | Michael R. | Diocese of Green Bay WI | Accused | Carroll was placed on leave in 2002 after accusations of abuse. The Vatican found him guilty and he was sentenced to life a prayer and penance. |
Clabots | Francis H. | Diocese of Green Bay WI | Accused | Principal of St. Norbert High School, pastor of Holy Cross, named publicly as credibly accused. |
Coleman | Brian Philip | Diocese of Green Bay WI | Accused | Monsignor Coleman was named publicly as accused of abuse of a minor in 1971-72. |
Conrad | John F. | Diocese of Green Bay WI | Accused | Admitted in 2002 to a sexual ‘relationship’ with a teenage girl over 25 years prior. Placed on leave. |
Danks | Arthur J. | Diocese of Green Bay WI | Accused | Named publicly as accused on the diocese’s list 1/17/19. Noted to have a single substantiated allegation against him of abuse, occurring 1966-67, reported after his death. Died 2/1/07. |
Dusold | August | Diocese of Green Bay WI | Accused | Named publicly as accused by the diocese on its list 1/17/19. Noted to have multiple substantiated allegations against him of abuse before 1924 and in 1947. Dusold died in 1960. |
Eberhardy | William | Diocese of Green Bay WI | Accused | A man came forward in 2018 alleging sexual abuse by Eberhardy sometime during 1978-81, when he was about 11- to 14 years old and an altar boy at St. Mary’s in Chilton. |
Engl | Simeon | Diocese of Green Bay WI | Accused | Engl was named publicly as the subject of multiple substantiated allegations by the Diocese of Green Bay in 1/19. He was on leave of absence 1950-1952 and 1954-1961. |
Falcone | Mark D. | Diocese of Green Bay WI | Accused | Named publicly as credibly accused by the Norbertines of St. Norbert’s Abbey in WI on its list 7/19/19. It notes one allegation. Ministry restricted. |
Feldkamp | Angelo J. | Diocese of Green Bay WI | Accused | Teacher at Notre Dame Academy in Green Bay since 1990, placed on leave in 2002 by the Norbertines, accused of abuse more than 25 years prior. |
Feeney | John Patrick | Diocese of Green Bay WI | Convicted | Accused of sex abuse of many boys and girls. Removed 1986, assigned to 18 parishes in 30 years, convicted in 2004 and sentenced to 15 years prison. |
Frigo | Camillus | Diocese of Green Bay WI | Sued | Accused of molesting several children over at least 30 years. On the Saginaw diocese’s list of credibly accused, assigned to an Essexville parish in 1968. |
Frisch | Michael F. | Diocese of Green Bay WI | Accused | Named publicly as credibly accused by the Norbertine’s of St. Norbert Abbey in WI, on its list 7/19/19. One allegation noted, ministry restricted. |
Geimer | Bernard | Diocese of Green Bay WI | Accused | Publicly accused on the diocese’s list 1/24/19. Noted to have multiple substantiated allegations against him of abuse occurring approximately 1955 and 1972-74. Geimer died in 1987. |
Gilsdorf | Daniel C. | Diocese of Green Bay WI | Accused | A priest was removed from ministry after admitting to sexual abuse of a minor that occurred 40 years earlier. |
Hermsen | Ralph H. | Diocese of Green Bay WI | Accused | Named publicly as accused on the diocese’s list 1/17/19. It notes multiple substantiated allegations against him of abuse occurring in about 1962-63 and 1984. Hermsen died in 1993. |
Heymen | Richard H. | Diocese of Green Bay WI | Accused | Named publicly as accused on the diocese’s list 1/17/19 (misspelled “Heyman”). It notes multiple substantiated allegations against him of abuse in about 1958-61. Ordered by the Vatican in 2008 to a life of prayer and penance. Died in 11/20. |
Hietpas | Raymond W. | Diocese of Green Bay WI | Accused | The diocese named Hietpas publicly as credibly accused on its list updated 4/4/19. He died 4/20/00, age 92. |
Hodik | Rudolph J. | Diocese of Green Bay WI | Accused | Named publicly as accused on the diocese’s list 1/17/19. Noted to have a single substantiated allegation of abuse, occurring in the 1950s, reported after his death. Died in 1974. |
Hoffmann | Philip A. | Diocese of Green Bay WI | Accused | Parish priest until 1989, then assigned to the Marriage Tribunal, resigned in 2002 after admitting to sexual abuse of a minor. |
Hogan | Leroy Jerome | Diocese of Green Bay WI | Settled | Placed on leave in 1993 after accusation he abused a boy in the mid-1980s. Civil suit filed, diocese paid $65,000, Hogan retired in 1997, died 10/05. |
Kiefer | George A. | Diocese of Green Bay WI | Accused | Named publicly as accused by the diocese on its list 1/17/19. Noted to have a single substantiated allegation of abuse, occurring 1969-71, reported after his death. Died in 1992. |
Kain | Michael L. | Diocese of Green Bay WI | Accused | Named publicly as credibly accused by the Norbertines of St. Norbert Abbey in WI on its list 7/19/19. One allegation noted. Died 1/27/89. |
Kiernan | William H. | Diocese of Green Bay WI | Accused | Monsignor. Named publicly as accused on the diocese’s list 1/17/19. Noted to have multiple substantiated allegations against him of abuse in the 1950s. Died in 1967. |
Koprowski | John P. | Diocese of Green Bay WI | Accused | Named publicly as accused on the diocese’s list 1/17/19. Noted to have a single substantiated allegation against him of abuse, occurring in the 1970s. Resigned from the priesthood in 1976. |
Koerner | Jerome | Diocese of Green Bay WI | Sued | Koerner went on leave of absence in 1972, resigned from priesthood in 1973, and was laicized in 2013. He died in 21. |
LaMal | Ernest J. | Diocese of Green Bay WI | Accused | Named publicly as credibly accused by the Norbertines of St. Norbert Abbey in WI, on its list 7/19/19. Multiple allegations noted. Died 5/20/88.. |
Lally | Dennis M. | Diocese of Green Bay WI | Accused | Monsignor Lally was accused by Green Bay of sexual misconduct in 1979-80. |
Langenfeld | Nicholas John | Diocese of Green Bay WI | Accused | Named publicly as accused on the diocese’s list 1/17/19, it notes a single substantiated allegation of abuse, occurring in the 1940s. |
Leitermann | Clarence Luke | Diocese of Green Bay WI | Accused | Leitermann is named publicly as accused of abuse in about 1947, the 1950s and 1960s, and again in 1970-74. |
Loerke | Lawrence M. | Diocese of Green Bay WI | Accused | Named publicly as accused by the diocese on its list 1/17/19. Noted to have a single allegation against him of abuse, occurring in 1950, reported after his death. Loerke died in 1973. |
Mackin | Benjamin T. | Diocese of Green Bay WI | Accused | Mackin was added to the Norbertine’s list of those with substantiated allegations of the sexual abuse of minors in 2020 or early 2021. He died 12/20/05. |
Mayer | Laurence Anthony | Diocese of Green Bay WI | Accused | Named publicly as credibly accused by the Norbertines of St. Norbert Abbey in WI, on its list 7/19/2019. It notes one allegation. Died 11/23/2007. Included in the 5/23/2023 IL Attorney General’s Report. |
Milbauer | Florian | Diocese of Green Bay WI | Accused | Named publicly as accused by the diocese on its list 1/17/19. Noted to have a single allegation against him of abuse, occurring 1966-69, reported after his death. Milbauer died 1/6/69. |
Middlecamp | Eric R. | Diocese of Green Bay WI | Accused | Accused of sexually abusing boys and girls in the late1950s-70s. Reportedly removed from ministry and living in a monitored setting, Middlecamp worked as a hospital chaplain and raised money for the Salvatorians and their Tanzanian missions. |
Nocinski | Rudolph Stefan “Sebastian” | Diocese of Green Bay WI | Convicted | Arrested in 7/2004, charged with felony possession of child pornography, received an 18 month prison term (suspended) and 5 years probation, and left the order in 2010. |
Ochs | Glen | Diocese of Green Bay WI | Accused | Named publicly as accused on the diocese’s list 1/17/19. Noted to have a single substantiated allegation against him of abuse, occurring in 1958. Left the priesthood in 1970, laicized 1971. Died in 1984. |
Olschowski | Fridolin | Diocese of Green Bay WI | Accused | Named publicly as accused by the diocese on its list 1/17/19. (Name misspelled “Olshowski.”) Noted to have a single substantiated allegation against him of abuse, occurring in 1952, reported after his death. Olschowlski died in 1991. |
Rank | Norbert B. | Diocese of Green Bay WI | Accused | Multiple substantiated allegations of abuse against him occurred in about 1950. He died in 1983. |
Radetski | Paul J. | Diocese of Green Bay WI | Accused | A credible allegation was made against Radetski, who was removed and placed on administrative leave. He was determined to be “not guilty” by a Vatican tribunal, and was granted senior priest status. |
Reimer | Elroy E. | Diocese of Green Bay WI | Accused | Named publicly as accused on the diocese’s list 1/17/19. Noted to have a single substantiated allegation against him of abuse, occurring 1958-60, reported after his death. Reimer died in 2000. |
Reinke | Francis P. | Diocese of Green Bay WI | Accused | Named publicly as accused on the diocese’s list 1/17/19. Noted to have a single substantiated allegation against him of abuse 1962-63. Ordered by the Vatican in 2008 to a life of prayer and penance. Died 8/24/17. |
Reppen | Robert | Diocese of Green Bay WI | Accused | Named publicly as credibly accused by St. Norbert Abbey in WI, on its list 7/19/19. One allegation noted. Reppen died 11/20/09. |
Rodgers | W. Kenneth | Diocese of Green Bay WI | Accused | Named publicly as accused on the diocese’s list 1/29/19. Noted to have a single substantiated allegation against him of abuse 1959-60. Died in 2005. |
Rose | Francis D. | Diocese of Green Bay WI | Accused | Named publicly as accused on the diocese’s list 1/17/19. Noted to have a single substantiated allegation against him of abuse, occurring in 1943-44, reported after his death. Rose died in 1983. Uncle of accused priest Donald W. Rose. |
Rondou | David E. | Diocese of Green Bay WI | Accused | Multiple allegations noted. Counselor at Camp Tivoli, Southeast Catholic High School, Central Catholic, and pastor of St. Willibrord. |
Rohlinger | Joseph A. | Diocese of Green Bay WI | Accused | Named publicly as credibly accused by St. Norbert Abbey in WI, on its list 7/19/19, on one allegation noted. |
Sammut | Tito | Diocese of Green Bay WI | Accused | Named publicly as accused by the diocese on its list 1/17/19, multiple substantiated allegations of abuse, occurring in the 1960s. Moved to Malta in retirement. |
Rose | Donald W. | Diocese of Green Bay WI | Accused | Monsignor. Named publicly as accused on the diocese’s list 1/17/19, ordered by the Vatican to live a life of prayer and penance, died 9/14/20. |
Schinkten | Arnold | Diocese of Green Bay WI | Accused | Schinkten was added to the Norbertine’s list of those with substantiated claims against them in 4/21. He taught psychology at St. Norbert College and was a counselor at Camp Tivoli. |
Scherer | Steven J. | Diocese of Green Bay WI | Accused | Named publicly as accused by the diocese on its list 5/23/19. Allegation received after his death of abuse of a child in 1980 or 1981. Died in 1999. |
Schmidt | Eugene LeRoy | Diocese of Green Bay WI | Sued | A woman claimed abuse by Schmidt when she was 13-17 years old during 1968-72. The suit was dismissed due to the statute of limitations, and Schmidt retired in 1991 without faculties. |
Schmidt | Ralph R. | Diocese of Green Bay WI | Accused | Named publicly as credibly accused by St. Norbert Abbey in WI, on its list 7/19/19. One allegation noted. Taught high school, particularly art, in PA, DE, WI. Died 2/4/64, age 50. |
Schneider | Ronald H. | Diocese of Green Bay WI | Accused | Schneider was accused of sexually assaulting two young boys, but was never charged. He was ordered by the Vatican to a life of prayer and penance. |
Schuh | Earl | Diocese of Green Bay WI | Accused | The diocese named him as accused on 1/17/19 and updated its list on 5/20. |
Stein | James W. | Diocese of Green Bay WI | Convicted | Stein pleaded no contest to touching a man in a sauna and was charged with felony second-degree sexual assault of a boy at Notre Dame Academy in Green Bay. The Order agreed to provide monthly payments to the man for counseling and medicine, but stopped payment in 5/2019. |
Stocker | Thomas Ronald | Diocese of Green Bay WI | Sued | A 5/94 suit was dismissed on SOL and the First Amendment shielded the Diocese from liability. Stocker admitted in deposition that he had sexual contact with at least some of the victims. |
Thompson | Robert Bruce | Diocese of Green Bay WI | Sued | Thompson was accused of abusing boys in the 1960s and 1970s. The case was dismissed on summary judgment, and Thompson was placed on administrative leave by the diocese in 1995. |
Thomas | Richard L. | Diocese of Green Bay WI | Convicted | Arrested 4/27/2016 for exposing himself to a minor, sentenced to 4 months in jail and 3 years supervised release, and laicized in 2018. Arrested 1/29/2019 for seeking out and having contact with children, sentenced to 8 months jail, died 12/10/2022. |
Nuland | Gerard J. Van | Diocese of Green Bay WI | Accused | Named publicly as accused on the diocese’s list 1/17/19. Noted to have multiple substantiated allegations of abuse against him, occurring 1963-70. Van Nuland died in 1990. |
Watry | Jerome R. | Diocese of Green Bay WI | Accused | Named publicly as accused on the diocese’s list 1/17/19. Noted to have a single substantiated allegation against him of abuse, occurring in about 1963. Watry died in 1997. |
Werner | Justin N. | Diocese of Green Bay WI | Reinstated | Retired in 2010, was temporarily removed without privileges in 4/13 after allegations of abuse were determined to be unsubstantiated. |
Williams | Walter T. | Diocese of Green Bay WI | Accused | Williams was named publicly as accused on 1/17/19, and had several substantiated allegations of abuse. |
Abts | Cletus L. | Diocese of La Crosse WI | Accused | Added to the diocese’s list 7/8/20 as the subject of a substantiated allegation. Died 6/30/01. |
Andrel | Stephen | Diocese of La Crosse WI | Accused | Monsignor. Named publicly as the subject of multiple substantiated allegations by the diocese on its list 4/9/20. Died 1/17/91. |
Ball | Bruce E. | Diocese of La Crosse WI | Convicted | Ball was investigated by WI law enforcement in 1984, and told by the bishop he should not have contact with children. He pled no contest to criminal charge of sexual contact with a 12-year-old boy during a therapy session, and was sentenced to five years prison. |
Bornbach | Raymond Henry | Diocese of La Crosse WI | Sued | A woman told the diocese that Bornbach molested her for over a year and a half in 1971, and another person complained that he still visited sick patients at a hospital in Marshfield. |
Cannon | J. Michael | Diocese of La Crosse WI | Accused | Listed as accused by the Midwest Province on 12/17/2018 and dismissed from the Jesuits on 3/6/1997. |
Comiskey | Eugene | Diocese of La Crosse WI | Accused | Named publicly as accused by the diocese on its list 1/18/20. Multiple allegations, substantiated. Died 8/21/82. |
Cullinan | John J. | Diocese of La Crosse WI | Accused | The La Crosse diocese named Cullinan publicly as accused in 12/2022. Multiple allegations, substantiated. |
Dempsey | Thomas F. | Diocese of La Crosse WI | Convicted | Ordained in La Crosse, WI, worked off and on from 1955-1975, pleaded guilty to indecent behavior with a boy in 1997, and died in 1998. |
Ennis | James E. | Diocese of La Crosse WI | Sued | Fr. Ennis was named in a 1992 civil suit with claims of sexual assault against a child. |
Finucan | James Patrick | Diocese of La Crosse WI | Accused | Monsignor. Named publicly as accused by the diocese on its list 1/18/20. It notes one substantiated allegation. Finucan died 6/12/09. Brother of accused priest John Thomas Finucan. |
Finucan | John Thomas | Diocese of La Crosse WI | Accused | Named publicly as accused by the diocese on its list 1/18/20. It notes one substantiated allegation. Finucan died 5/14/18. Brother of accused priest James Patrick Finucan. |
Flad | Paul N. | Diocese of La Crosse WI | Accused | Flad was ordained in the Diocese of La Crosse and the Diocese of Yakima, and retired in 1975 due to “ill health”. |
Garthwaite | Thomas | Diocese of La Crosse WI | Sued | Accused of sexual misconduct with a 14-year-old girl in Marshfield, Wisconsin. Trial dismissed on statute of limitations. |
Haller | Thomas R. | Diocese of La Crosse WI | Accused | Entered the Jesuits in 1940, was named publicly as accused by the Jesuits Midwest Province in 2018, and was dismissed in 1982. He died in 2001. |
Herrmann | Richard J. | Diocese of La Crosse WI | Accused | Named publicly as accused by the La Crosse diocese on its list 1/18/20. Multiple allegations, substantiated. Retired in 1996. Died 2/18/16. Included in 11/22 on the Diocese of Superior’s list of credibly accused. |
Hertzenberg | William | Diocese of La Crosse WI | Accused | Named publicly as accused by the diocese on its list 1/18/20. It notes multiple substantiated allegations. Hertzenberg died 2/16/95. |
Koehler | Hugo | Diocese of La Crosse WI | Accused | Named publicly as the subject of a substantiated allegation by the diocese on its list 7/28/20. Died 2/24/89. |
Langer | Thomas Edward | Diocese of La Crosse WI | Accused | Named publicly as accused by the diocese on its list 1/18/20. It notes one substantiated allegation. Langer died 8/20/04. |
Lucey | J. Roger | Diocese of La Crosse WI | Accused | Multiple allegations of abuse occurred while he was assigned to Campion Jesuit High School in Prairie du Chien, WI, and in a Jesuit community in St. Paul, MN, 1970-1972. |
Mason | James E. | Diocese of La Crosse WI | Convicted | Mason was accused of sexually assaulting a student in 1981, but the diocese did not tell him that he had been found guilty and placed on probation for 18 months. |
Muller | Garland J. | Diocese of La Crosse WI | Accused | Named publicly as accused by the diocese on its list 1/18/20. Noted to have Multiple substantiated allegations against him. Died 10/7/78. |
O’Connor | James V. | Diocese of La Crosse WI | Accused | O’Connor was named publicly as accused by the Jesuits Midwest Province on its list 12/17/2018. He died 5/29/1981. |
Pierce | Mark R. | Diocese of La Crosse WI | Accused | Monsignor. Pastor of St. Michael and Resurrection Parishes (East Side Parishes) when placed on leave due to an allegation of ‘sexual misconduct’ with a minor, occurring decades prior. Resigned. Pierce admitted to the misconduct. |
Rasmussen | Charles L. | Diocese of La Crosse WI | Accused | Named publicly as accused by the diocese on its list 1/18/20. Noted to have multiple substantiated allegations against him. Ordained at age 35. Appears to have left active ministry in 1983. Settled in NM. Died 9/18/11. |
Richmond | Charlie | Diocese of La Crosse WI | Convicted | Richmond was charged with repeated sexual assault of a girl, removed from public ministry, and found guilty of fourth-degree sexual assault. He was sentenced to 12 months probation. |
Sonnberger | Albert | Diocese of La Crosse WI | Accused | Named publicly as accused by the diocese on its list 1/18/20. It notes one substantiated allegation, and inactive ministry as of 11/20/18. |
Scott | John M. | Diocese of La Crosse WI | Accused | Scott was named publicly as accused by the Jesuits Midwest Province in 1/2022. He died 12/27/2007. |
Sullivan | Joseph R. | Diocese of La Crosse WI | Accused | Named publicly by the diocese on its list 4/15/20 as the subject of a single substantiated allegation. Laicized in 1972. |
Szatkowski | David | Diocese of La Crosse WI | Charges Dropped | Assistant Professor at Sacred Heart School of Theology in Milwaukee, alleged to have sexually assaulted a 15-year-old girl. Resigned from Seminary after arrest, charges reduced in 9/11 and dropped in 12/11. |
Svea | Timothy E. | Diocese of La Crosse WI | Convicted | Bishop Burke brought Svea and his group to La Crosse to run a parish. Svea pled guilty to exposing himself to and molesting teenage boys, beginning in 1998, and was sentenced to 1.5 years jail and 20 years probation. |
Umberger | Patrick A. | Diocese of La Crosse WI | Arrested | Arrested for possession of child pornography, assigned to St. Patrick’s Parish in Onalaska, WI, and taught at parish school. Caught following young boys into restroom at a water park, pleaded not guilty, and died of cancer. |
Wagner | Raymond J. | Diocese of La Crosse WI | Accused | Named publicly as accused by the diocese on its list 1/18/20. Noted to have multiple substantiated allegations against him. Died 10/14/09. |
Werra | Bogdan | Diocese of La Crosse WI | Accused | From Poland, he arrived in the U.S. in 1984 or 1986 and abused a teenaged altar boy. A seminarian was sent to St. Michael’s Institute in St. Louis MO for alcoholism and sexual misconduct. Werra was suspended from the LaCrosse diocese in 1994 and incardinated into the Kalamazoo diocese in 2000 despite warnings that he was “high risk”. |
Wohlmuth | Carl A. | Diocese of La Crosse WI | Accused | Named publicly as the subject of a substantiated allegation by the diocese on its list 7/8/20. Died 3/2/91. |
Alvarez | Curtiss | Diocese of Madison WI | Accused | Alvarez was one of four priests named in a 2/03 news article as having documented and substantial allegations of sexual abuse raised against them. |
Adams | Archie H. | Diocese of Madison WI | Accused | Adams was named publicly in a news article in 2/03 as one of four priests against whom documented and substantial allegations of serious abuse had been made. He died in 2008. |
Arnoue | Peter Claver | Diocese of Madison WI | Accused | Arnoue, a priest of the Owere Nigeria Diocese working in Madison, was placed on leave in 12/02 by Bishop Bullock. Per a 2/19/03 news report, he was accused of improper advances against a young woman. |
Clauder | Joseph Gibbs | Diocese of Madison WI | Sued | Clauder was placed on leave without privileges in 1999 after an allegation of sexual misconduct with an adult woman. A 20-year-old woman accused Clauder of sexual abuse in 2003-04. |
DeCock | Robert | Diocese of Madison WI | Accused | Placed on leave in 12/02 after allegations of sexual impropriety involving a young woman. He had been working as Parochial Vicar at St. Paul University Catholic Center since 6/02. Was working in Corpus Christi TX as of 2002 Directory. |
Doherty | Patrick J. | Diocese of Madison WI | Accused | The diocese named a pastor as accused in 9/19 after it received a report of “an incident” over 40 years prior. The diocese announced in 1/20 that its Review Board found the allegations credible. |
Eberhardy | John B. | Diocese of Madison WI | Accused | Named as credibly accused by the diocese in 9/19 after a review of clergy files. Died in 1992. |
Hahn | Jude Clarence Francis | Diocese of Madison WI | Sued | Hahn was accused of sexually abusing a minor boy in 1976 and left the priesthood in 1993. The Pope approved his laicization request in 2008 and he died in 2008. |
Klubertanz | Kenneth E. | Diocese of Madison WI | Sued | In 2002, a priest was placed on leave after an allegation that he had abused a boy 27 years prior. In 2003, a third man filed a lawsuit alleging he was abused as a boy by Klubertanz in 1969-70. |
Nolan | William A. | Diocese of Madison WI | Acquitted | Police report filed in 4/18 said Nolan repeatedly sexually assaulted a boy 2006-10. Nolan retired at age 64 in 2007 and was assigned to St. Joseph’s in Fort Atkinson. |
Rehmat | Rajnal | Diocese of Madison WI | Charged | Rehmat was charged with sexual assault after incidents involving kissing and touching a girl, age 17, and masturbating via video contact. |
Trainor | Lawrence M. | Diocese of Madison WI | Settled | A man claimed that Trainor sexually abused him in 1971 and that he was laicized in 2011. A woman claimed abuse by Trainor when she was 7 years old. |
Trainor | Michael G. | Diocese of Madison WI | Settled | Trainor was accused of sexual abuse of boys as young as age 9. He left Wisconsin in 1984 and worked in Montana parishes until 1991 when he left the priesthood. |
Vosen | Gerald P. | Diocese of Madison WI | Accused | Vosen was accused of sexually abusing his brother at age 14 in the early 1970s, was removed from the priesthood, and sued a man who alleged fondling and anal rape at age 11-12 by Vosen in 1989-91. |
Ahrens | Theodore | Diocese of Superior WI | Accused | Named publicly as credibly accused by the Diocese of Superior on its list in 11/22. Multiple allegations notes, occurring in the early 1960s in Hurley. Removed from or left ministry in 4/78. Died in 2003. |
Augustyn | Thaddeus A. | Diocese of Superior WI | Sued | Augustyn was arrested in 1966 and pled guilty to public indecency in a bus station. He was named in a 1992 civil suit against the Superior diocese, but the suit was dismissed due to the statute of limitations. |
Bartelme | James | Diocese of Superior WI | Accused | Named publicly as credibly accused by the diocese in 11/22, placed on administrative leave in 9/8/22. |
Beutner | Edward F. | Diocese of Superior WI | Sued | A woman claimed that Beutner had abused her 10 years prior and told Bishop Fliss in 2002. Beutner was placed on leave in 2002 due to allegations and laicized 3/14/06. |
Conway | Thomas A. | Diocese of Superior WI | Accused | Conway was placed on leave in 2002 after a complaint from a woman who accused him of inappropriate behavior in the 1970s. |
Dudink | Lawrence | Diocese of Superior WI | Guilty plea | Dudink was chaplain at a Superior WI hospital when he took a 17-year-old girl on a car ride and didn’t return. He was sentenced to three years in prison. |
Ericksen | Thomas Edward | Diocese of Superior WI | Convicted | Accused of sexually assaulting three boys in Winter, WI in 1983, removed from priesthood in 1988, and accused of abuse of a boy, age 9, in the hospital in the late 1970s. |
Erickson | Ryan | Diocese of Superior WI | Sued | Accused of abuse of at least one young boy and possession of child porn, died by suicide during investigation of a double homicide, and was listed on the diocese’s list of credibly accused. |
Higgins | Joseph | Diocese of Superior WI | Accused | Named publicly as credibly accused by the Diocese of Superior on its list in 11/22. Abuse noted to have occurred in the late 1960s in River Falls. Died in 2/74. |
Klister | Irving Frederick | Diocese of Superior WI | Convicted | Klister was accused of abuse of a 14-year-old boy in Superior in the early 1950s, transferred to the Diocese of El Paso in 1955, sent to St. Vincent Hospital in St. Louis in 1966, and allowed ministry in the Archdiocese of Santa Fe in 1984. |
Kraker | James J. | Diocese of Superior WI | Accused | Multiple allegations of abuse, occurring 1988-1998, against the pastor of St. Robert Bellarmine and Immaculate Conception. |
Mahon | Gerald F. | Diocese of Superior WI | Accused | Monsignor. Named publicly as credibly accused by the Diocese of Superior on its list in 11/22. Multiple allegations of abuse, occurring 1943-1946 in Superior. Was removed or left ministry 8/26/71. |
Malsch | David J. | Diocese of Superior WI | Convicted | Accused of molesting three boys in 1984, a 15-year-old boy with emotional, learning and behavioral issues in 1991, and a 10-year-old boy with emotional, learning and behavioral issues in 1993. Accused of child porn in 2003, and laicized in 2005. |
Payne | Alan | Diocese of Superior WI | Accused | Named publicly as credibly accused by the Diocese of Superior on its list in 11/22. Multiple allegations noted, of abuse in the early 1970s in Rhinelander. Left or was removed from ministry in 1988. Laicization in progress. |
Regh | John A. | Diocese of Superior WI | Accused | Jack was named publicly as credibly accused by the Diocese of Superior on its list in 11/22. |
Stremski | John P. | Diocese of Superior WI | Accused | Named publicly as credibly accused by the Diocese of Superior on its list in 11/22. A single allegation noted, of abuse in the early 1970s in Superior. Left ministry or was removed 6/13/99. |
Urban | Robert M. | Diocese of Superior WI | Accused | Urban retired in 1997, assisted parishes in retirement, and was placed on leave in 2010 after a report of inappropriate conduct with an unnamed individual. |
Willenborg | Henry V. | Diocese of Superior WI | Accused | Willenborg was accused of having an affair with two women, one of whom gave birth to his son after his return from Paraclete facility, and the second of which made the matter public because her son had terminal cancer. |
About Clergy Sexual Abuse
Clergy sexual abuse involves the exploitation of trust and authority by religious leaders to commit acts of sexual misconduct against children and vulnerable individuals. These abuses range from inappropriate touching and grooming to severe forms of assault or a sexual relationship, leaving survivors with enduring trauma and shattered faith in institutions meant to protect them.
In Wisconsin, numerous victims reported abuse at the hands of the respected members of the Catholic Church. Survivors can pursue justice through civil lawsuits, seeking compensation for the harm inflicted upon them. Understanding the nature and impact of clergy sexual abuse is crucial in empowering survivors to seek justice and reclaim their dignity.
Legal Support for Survivors in Wisconsin
The state of Wisconsin has made recent legislative changes to better suit the severity of these crimes. Through legal help, the survivors can put the guilty in their place and get justice for themselves. Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers specialize in providing compassionate and effective legal representation for survivors of clergy sexual abuse in Wisconsin, ensuring their rights are defended while their voices are heard.
Laws and Regulations in Wisconsin
As per the new legislative amendments, no statutes of limitations will be applied to first-degree sexual assault or repeated class A or B felonies. Recent legislative updates have also extended statutes of limitations in other scenarios, acknowledging the challenges survivors of child sex abuse face in coming forward, like solicitation for prostitution as a child. These laws aim to hold perpetrators accountable and provide survivors with avenues for seeking compensation and justice for the harm inflicted upon them. When a nationwide survey investigated the statutes of limitation in every state, Wisconsin was given a grade C, meaning they have eliminated almost all the SOLs for most felonies.
Filing a Clergy Sexual Abuse Lawsuit Wisconsin
Survivors of clergy sexual abuse in Wisconsin have the legal right to seek accountability and compensation for the harm they endured. Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers guide survivors through an extensive legal process, which goes as follows:
Initial Consultation
The first step is to contact Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers for a confidential consultation. During this initial meeting, we will discuss the details of the alleged abuse, listen to your story, and explain your legal options. This is a safe space for you to share your experiences without fear of judgment.
Investigation
After the consultation, our team will begin a thorough investigation. This involves gathering evidence, such as church records, medical reports, and witness statements. We also work with expert witnesses who can provide additional insights into the abuse and its impacts. This comprehensive approach ensures that we build a strong case on your behalf.
Filing the Lawsuit
Once we have gathered sufficient evidence of alleged sexual abuse, we will file the necessary legal documents to initiate the lawsuit. This includes drafting and submitting a complaint that outlines the details of the abuse and the damages you are seeking. In Wisconsin, it is crucial to file within the statute of limitations, which can vary based on the case’s specifics.
Discovery Phase
During discovery, both sides exchange information and evidence. This may include depositions (interviews conducted under oath), interrogatories (written questions that must be answered under oath), and requests for documents. The goal is to uncover all relevant facts and prepare for either a settlement or trial.
Negotiation and Settlement
Many clergy sexual abuse cases are resolved through negotiation and settlement before reaching trial. Our experienced attorneys will negotiate on your behalf to achieve a fair settlement that reflects the severity of the abuse and its impact on your life. We aim to secure compensation for medical expenses, therapy costs, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other related damages.
Trial
The case will proceed to trial if a settlement cannot be reached. Our team will represent you in court, presenting the evidence and arguing your case before a judge or jury. We are dedicated to fighting for your rights and ensuring those responsible are held accountable.
Post-Trial Support
Regardless of the outcome, Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers continues to provide support after the trial. We assist with collecting any awarded compensation and connect you with additional resources to aid your recovery process.
Taking legal action against clergy sexual abuse in Wisconsin is a courageous step toward justice and healing. At Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers, we are committed to guiding you through each stage of the process with compassion and expertise. If you or a loved one has been affected, contact us today to begin your journey toward justice.
Support Resources for Survivors in Wisconsin
Survivors of Diocesan clergy sexual assault in Wisconsin have access to essential support resources to aid in their recovery journey:
Counseling Services
Experienced therapists offer trauma-informed counseling to help survivors process their experiences and rebuild their lives.
Support Groups
Peer support networks provide solidarity and empathy, connecting survivors with others who share similar experiences.
Crisis Hotlines
Immediate assistance is available through crisis hotlines staffed by trained professionals, offering support during moments of distress. These resources complement our legal advocacy, ensuring survivors receive comprehensive care and support throughout their healing process.
Notable Cases and Outcomes in Wisconsin
Wisconsin has seen significant allegations of child sexual abuse against Diocesan Priests, resulting in legal precedents and substantial settlements, underscoring the importance of accountability and justice for survivors. For example, in 2012, the Wisconsin Supreme Court ruled that the Green Bay Diocese pay a USD 700,000 penalty to a Nevada man when a member substantiated allegations of assaulting him in the year 1984. Similarly, in a class action lawsuit, 330 survivors of child sex abuse were paid USD 21 million by the accused Priest, the Archdiocese of Milwaukee, in 2015.
Our attorneys have reviewed public and private settlement data related to Wisconsin clergy abuse settlements. Depending on the circumstances pertaining to your case, these cases may be fairly valued in the $400,000 to $950,000 range. In cases of extreme conduct or if that case were to go before a jury, damages could exceed $1 million.
Why Choose Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers?
Survivors of clergy sexual abuse in Wisconsin need a law firm with a proven track record and a deep commitment to justice. At Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers, we offer extensive experience in handling sensitive cases, ensuring survivors of attempted sexual assault receive the compassionate and dedicated representation they deserve.
Priest grooming and handling
Deacon assault and rape
Clergy child abuse filed in adulthood
Volunteer-perpetrated Catholic church abuse
Religious school priest teen sexual abuse
Clergy abuse case filed against a deceased priest
Our team of expert attorneys is well-versed in Wisconsin’s legal landscape and tirelessly advocates for our clients’ rights. We provide personalized attention, guiding you through each step of the legal process with care and respect. Choose Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers for our unwavering dedication to seeking justice and helping you move forward.
Contact Us
If you or someone you know is a survivor of clergy sexual abuse in Wisconsin, Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers is here to provide support and guidance. Contact us today for a confidential consultation to discuss your legal options and take the first step toward reclaiming your rights and healing.
- Phone: Call us at (888) 424-5757
- Email: Contact us via email at info@rosenfeldinjurylaw.com
- Contact Form: Fill out our confidential contact form here.