Melrose Park, IL – A Chicago-area priest who has served in eight parishes over nearly fifty years is facing an accusation of sexual abuse involving a minor. Rev. Curtis Lambert, currently at St. Peter Damian Catholic Church in Bartlett, is accused of abuse during his time at Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic Church in Melrose Park in the 1980s.
Cardinal Cupich Notifies Parish Communities of Allegations Against Priest
Cardinal Blase Cupich, the Archbishop of Chicago, sent a letter to the affected churches, informing parishioners of the allegation. Lambert has ministered in several neighborhoods, including Prospect Heights, Portage Park, and Mount Prospect. He began his career at St. Basil Visitation Catholic Church in Englewood.
In his letter, Cupich emphasized the Archdiocese’s commitment to the safety of children, stating, “The welfare of the children entrusted to our care is our paramount concern. The Archdiocese of Chicago takes all allegations of sexual misconduct seriously and encourages anyone who feels they have been sexually abused by a priest, deacon, religious or lay employee to come forward. They will be received with dignity and compassion.” Lambert “strenuously denies this allegation,” Cupich added.
Survivor Advocate Responds
Alfred Antonsen, Chicago leader of the Survivors Network of those Abused by Priests, reflected on the impact of such accusations. “I hate to see it happening over and over and over again,” Antonsen said. He shared his own experience of abuse as a high school sophomore, noting the decades it took him to confront his past. “Took me almost 50 years. I blocked it out of my mind for almost 50 years. And when I got these memories back, I was an angry person for a long time.”
Antonsen, who knows Lambert personally, described him as “a really good guy, a really nice guy,” adding, “It’s hard to hear those things.”
Ongoing Investigation
The Archdiocese encourages anyone with information or concerns to come forward. The investigation is ongoing, and parish communities await further updates as the process continues.
Navigating Legal Options for Survivors of Clergy Abuse
Victims of clergy sexual abuse often face a difficult path when deciding how to respond, especially when the trauma occurred years ago. Attorney Erv Nevitt, a seasoned Illinois sexual abuse lawyer, shares practical guidance on the legal steps survivors can take, the importance of reporting abuse, and the support available throughout the process. His perspective offers clarity for those seeking answers about their rights and options under Illinois law.
Laurence Banville, Esq.: Erv, when someone comes forward with an allegation of sexual abuse by a priest, what legal options are available for them in Illinois?
Erv Nevitt, Esq.: Survivors have both civil and criminal options. On the civil side, they can file a lawsuit against the individual and the institution if there’s evidence of negligence or a cover-up. Illinois law has expanded the statute of limitations for child sexual abuse cases, so even if the abuse happened decades ago, survivors may still have a path to seek damages.
Banville: What about reporting the abuse to authorities?
Nevitt: That’s always an important step. Victims should contact law enforcement, regardless of how much time has passed. Even if criminal charges can’t be filed due to time limits, a report helps document the abuse and can support civil claims.
Banville: How does the Archdiocese’s response factor into a survivor’s legal options?
Nevitt: If the Archdiocese failed to act on prior complaints or didn’t protect parishioners, that can strengthen a survivor’s case. The church has a duty to ensure safety, and any breach of that duty can be grounds for liability.
Banville: What support is available for survivors during this process?
Nevitt: Many law firms work closely with counselors and advocacy groups. Legal action can be overwhelming, so emotional support is just as important as legal guidance. Survivors should know they’re not alone and that help is available at every step.
Take the First Step: Free Legal Consultation for Survivors of Clergy Abuse
If you or a loved one has experienced abuse by a member of the clergy, you don’t have to face this alone. Understanding your rights and exploring your legal options can be empowering. Contact us today for a free, confidential consultation to discuss your situation and learn how we can support you in seeking accountability and healing. Your voice matters, and help is available.
