Seattle, WA – A Shoreline resident has taken legal action against the Seattle Catholic Archdiocese, accusing the institution of shielding a priest who allegedly sexually abused him during the early 1980s at St. John Catholic School.
Details of the Abuse Lawsuit Against Catholic Archdiocese
The plaintiff, identified as “John Doe,” filed a negligence lawsuit on Monday against the Archdiocese. The suit alleges that Father Edward C. Boyle, a priest at St. John, repeatedly sexually abused Doe from 1983 to 1984.
Boyle, who passed away in 1987 at the age of 62, had served as a priest for 30 years. The Archdiocese has previously acknowledged Boyle’s misconduct, including his name on a 2016 list of priests credibly accused of sexual abuse in the Seattle area.
Negligence Allegations Against the Archdiocese
The lawsuit contends that the Archdiocese was aware or should have been aware of Boyle’s alleged sexual abuses. It claims that the institution failed to take action or inform parents, thereby neglecting to protect the child.
Furthermore, the suit alleges that the Archdiocese concealed the abuses of Boyle and other priests to safeguard its reputation.
Previous Sexual Abuse Accusations Against Accused Late Priest
A Catholic Church sex abuse advocacy group reports that Boyle had been previously accused in 2005 of abuse that allegedly occurred in 1956.
Compensation Sought by Survivor of Priest Sex Abuse
While the plaintiff is seeking compensation for physical and psychological damages, a specific monetary amount has not been specified in the lawsuit.
Broader Context of Archdiocese Settlements
This lawsuit comes in the context of numerous settlements by the Seattle Archdiocese in recent years. In 2022, the Archdiocese paid $2.3 million to settle five claims of sexual abuse. In 2015, it agreed to pay $1.2 million to settle a sex abuse suit involving a priest who had previously admitted to molesting boys.
Understand Legal Pathways for Clergy Abuse Survivors
The recent lawsuit against the Seattle Catholic Archdiocese has brought renewed attention to the ongoing issue of clergy sexual abuse. As survivors come forward with their stories, many questions arise about the legal process and options available to those seeking accountability. To provide clarity on these matters, we spoke with Mike Pfau, a Washington attorney with extensive experience in handling sexual abuse cases. In this interview, Pfau offers valuable information on the legal rights of survivors and the strategies used to hold institutions responsible for their role in enabling or concealing abuse.
Laurence Banville, Esq.: What legal options do victims have when pursuing a case against the Catholic Church?
Mike Pfau, Esq.: Victims of clergy abuse have several avenues for legal recourse. They can file civil lawsuits against both the individual perpetrator and the institution that enabled or covered up the abuse. In Washington, recent changes to the statute of limitations have expanded the timeframe for victims to come forward.
Banville: How can victims hold institutions like the Seattle Catholic Archdiocese accountable?
Pfau: Accountability often comes through demonstrating negligence. We focus on proving that the Archdiocese knew or should have known about the abuse and failed to take appropriate action. This can include evidence of prior complaints, patterns of behavior, or inadequate screening and supervision of clergy.
Banville: What advice would you give to someone considering legal action?
Pfau: I’d encourage them to speak with an experienced attorney who understands the nuances of these cases. It’s important to gather evidence, document experiences, and act within the legal timeframes. Remember, coming forward not only helps the individual victim but can also prevent future abuse.
Banville: Thank you for sharing your expertise on this sensitive topic.
Reach Out for Support and Guidance
If you or a loved one has experienced abuse, know that you are not alone. There are resources available to help you navigate this difficult journey. We encourage victims and their families to contact us for a free consultation. Our compassionate team is here to listen, provide support, and guide you through the legal process, ensuring that your voice is heard and your rights are protected. Don’t hesitate to reach out—your healing and justice matter.
Source:
https://www.fox13seattle.com/news/man-alleges-sexual-abuse-catholic-school-seattle
Mr. Banville is a personal injury attorney who has experience in handling auto accidents, work injuries, medical malpractice, dog bites, slip and falls, and representing survivors and victims of sexual abuse. Mr. Banville is affiliated with law firms in Pennsylvania, New York, New Jersey, Delaware, D.C., and Maryland. Abuse Guardian
