Lake Zurich, IL - St. Francis de Sales School Pastor, Rev. David Ryan, Accused of Sexually Abusing Minor

Archdiocese of Chicago Investigating Reverand For Sexual Abuse

According to Chicago Sun-Times, accusations of sexual abuse have been made against a pastor at St. Francis de Sales Parish and School 11 S Buesching Rd, Lake Zurich, IL 60047. 

On Friday, September 16, 2022, the Archdiocese of Chicago received two accusations that Rev. David Ryan sexually abused a minor. Ryan was asked to step away from his role and duties as the church pastor during the investigation. 

This is not the first time the pastor has been accused of sexual abuse. He was accused of sexually abusing multiple minors while assigned to Maryville Academy in Des Plaines around 1995 and again more recently in 2020. However, the prior allegations were deemed unfounded due to a lack of evidence. 

Can I Sue For Being Sexually Abused by a Church Pastor?

Attorney contributor Brian Kent is an experienced church sexual abuse attorney. He represents victims of sexual abuse within the state of Illinois. Below, Brian sought to answer the common question, "can I sue for being sexually abused by a pastor?"

"Churches are required to protect their congregation from preventable dangers, such as clergy abuse. Pastors are positions that gain the trust and respect of their congregation members as well as other members of the community. Lately, we have been hearing more reports of sexual abuse at the hands of those that carry these positions. Religious organizations, including the Archdiocese, have a duty to prevent abuse from occurring. Background checks are one way that they can help to prevent incidents, but churches should have security cameras throughout the property. In the event of abuse, a proper reporting system is in place. These measures can deter incidents from happening in the first place."

"In too many cases, church abuse occurs due to the negligence of the church and its officials. For instance, if officials were aware of previous incidents of misconduct but dismissed the claims allowing the perpetrator to remain in position, they could be held liable. In such cases of negligence, the victim or their family should know they may have grounds to file a civil lawsuit against the church. Victims can fully explore their options by consulting with an experienced church sexual abuse attorney."

Sources:

Chicago Sun-Times