Tennessee Catholic Diocese Priest Sex Abuse List | Injury Lawyer Team

List of Accused Priests in Tennessee

Clergy sexual abuse within the Tennessee Catholic Diocese has a long and troubling history, affecting many lives and communities. For decades, survivors have bravely stood against their abusers, bringing them to accountability. Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers are committed to supporting survivors who seek justice. Our team believes in holding these perpetrators accountable and providing compassionate legal assistance to those affected.

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Last Name	First Name	Diocese	Status	Accusations (Summary)
Casey	William Claude	Diocese of Knoxville TN	Convicted	Incardinated into the Knoxville diocese in 9/1988, retired in 4/2010, and charged in VA and TN with sexually abusing a child for 5 years. Sentenced to 35-40 years in prison, laicized in 2/7/2013, and included on the Nashville diocese’s list 11/2/2018.
Mankel	Xavier	Diocese of Knoxville TN	Settled	Monsignor Francis Xavier Mankel was accused of sexually abusing an altar boy for two-and-a-half years, beginning in 1991. The diocese settled with the boy’s accuser in 12/19 while still denying the validity of the claim.
LaPrad	Stephen Charles	Diocese of Knoxville TN	Charged	LaPrad was removed from ministry in 2001 and indicted in 2002 on charges of “unlawful sexual contact” with a teenage boy. He pleaded innocent in 2002 and the case never went to trial.
Dupree	Daniel T.	Diocese of Memphis TN	Sued	Dupree was accused of sexual abuse of a male high school freshman, but the lawsuit was dismissed by appeals court on SOL.
Emala	Walter M.	Diocese of Memphis TN	Settled	The Diocese of Nashville knew in at least 1959 of Emala’s behavior with boys. In the 1960s, parents were told to keep their boys away from him, and in 1968, Emala was given an ultimatum to leave TN. Emala presented himself as a priest for 20 years in East Baltimore, despite having no faculties, and counseled children, mostly boys. Multiple individuals alleged sexual abuse, including rape, by him in the 1970s-1980s.
Gilbert	James D.	Diocese of Memphis TN	Accused	Named publicly as credibly accused by the Memphis diocese on its list 2/28/20, laicized in 2006.
Duran	Juan Carlos	Diocese of Memphis TN	Settled	Extern priest from Colombia, accused of sexual abuse of a boy in Bolivia, and a 10-year-old boy in St. Louis and Chicago. Dismissed from Dominicans in 2001, laicized in 2017, and settled civil suit for $2M.
Guthrie	Milton J.	Diocese of Memphis TN	Sued	Accuser filed civil suit against Diocese, but appeals court dismissed it based on statute of limitations. TN Supreme Court ruled that the suit was not barred by SOL.
Kantner	William R.	Diocese of Memphis TN	Accused	Kantner was found credible in 2002 for molesting a teenage boy over several years in the late 1970s. In 2004 the Bishop recommended Kantner for a mission trip to Mexico, but later admitted that he may have put children in harm’s way.
Murphy	James William	Diocese of Memphis TN	Accused	Accused of sexually abusing boys in the Davenport IA diocese and the Nashville diocese, and died in 2016. His name is included on the Nashville diocese’s list as of 11/2/2018.
Nguyen	Joseph Thinh Duc	Diocese of Memphis TN	Settled	Joseph Thinh Duc Nguyen was placed on leave after a civil suit was filed in 9/06, and suspended from ministry 7/23/07, and laicized 5/29/12.
Mickey	Richard L.	Diocese of Memphis TN	Settled	Mickey was sued in 2004 for abuse of twin brothers at Bishop Byrne High School in 1980, and reinstated in 2005, but suddenly resigned in 2006 from all “pastoral or public ministry” according to a diocesan spokesman.
Charles	Paul Wiley St.	Diocese of Memphis TN	Settled	St. Charles was incardinated into the Memphis diocese in 1971, served as the diocese’s first Catholic Youth Office Director from 1971-1973, and retired under pressure from the diocese in 1986 due to “rumors”. He was placed on leave in 2004.
Wiggs	Joel M.	Diocese of Memphis TN	Accused	Monsignor Wiggs was reported to the diocese for sexual abuse of boys in 2002, 2013 and 2019. The diocese kept it quiet until 2023, when a 56-year-old man stated publicly that Wiggs had abused him when he was age 8.
Dickman	Ronald W.	Diocese of Nashville TN	Accused	Dickman was accused of abusing at least two students at Father Ryan High School, and left the priesthood in 1991. He denied all allegations.
Cleary	Edward James	Diocese of Nashville TN	Accused	Cleary was first named publicly as accused on 11/2/2018. He died on 11/10/1997.
Davis	William Floyd	Diocese of Nashville TN	Accused	Davis was first named publicly as accused on 11/2/2018. He died 10/26/2011.
Mendoza	Juan Carlos Garcia	Diocese of Nashville TN	Indicted	In 2024, a doctor was placed on leave pending an investigation of sexual battery against a teenage boy.
Lott	Roger R.	Diocese of Nashville TN	Accused	Lott was accused of sexual molestation in the late 1950s, but said he was an alcoholic and could not remember any abuse.
Haas	Paul Frederick	Diocese of Nashville TN	Settled	At least 100 people have accused Haas of abuse while assigned to Fr. Ryan High School in TN, Catholic High School in Little Rock, AR, and Owensboro, KY. He was dismissed from the priesthood in 1977.
McKeown	Edward Joseph	Diocese of Nashville TN	Convicted	Accused of raping three boys in the early 1980s, forced out of the priesthood in 1989, began abusing youths again in the early 1990s, sentenced to 25 years in prison, died in prison 12/30/2018, age 74.
Reilly	Joseph L.	Diocese of Nashville TN	Accused	A man accused Reilly of sexually abusing him and two other altar boys while assigned to Sacred Heart in Warner Robins, GA in the early 1960s. Reilly was dismissed from the diocese in 1965 and laicized in 1965.
Rudisill	James Arthur	Diocese of Nashville TN	Accused	Rudisill was named publicly as accused on the diocese’s list 11/2/2018, and was included on the Knoxville diocese’s list as of 3/6/2020.
Walenga	Edward Albert	Diocese of Nashville TN	Accused	First named publicly as accused on the Nashville diocese’s list 11/2/2018. Walenga died 11/27/1983. Included on the Nashville diocese’s list as of 3/6/2020. (Knoxville was created from Nashville in 1988.)
Richards	Franklin T.	Diocese of Nashville TN	Accused	Principal of Knoxville Catholic High School, confronted by parents of three children in 1984, was paid a settlement, and left the priesthood in 1989. Confessions of molesting 25 boys, no legal action due to the statute of limitations.

About Clergy Sexual Abuse

Clergy sexual abuse refers to sexual misconduct and exploitation by members of the clergy. These are individuals who abuse their position and leave their survivors with emotional trauma and psychological distress. Victims of such abuse often struggle in their personal as well as professional lives. Survivors usually hesitate to bring these allegations to light due to fear and shame. However, these cases need to be reported. Exposure to these incidents not only holds the abuser accountable but also helps implement preventive measures and improved policies.

In Tennessee, the legal process starts with filing a claim, followed by an investigation. If sufficient evidence is found, the case may proceed to court. Victims can seek compensation for damages, holding the abusers and their institutions accountable.

Legal Support for Survivors in Tennessee

Survivors have multiple avenues from which they can choose while seeking legal support. Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers are dedicated to providing comprehensive legal support for survivors of clergy abuse. Following is a list of our services.

• Initial Consultations – Providing confidential consultations to uncover details and explore potential legal options.
• Case Investigation – Conducting thorough investigations to collect all evidence and statements required to build a strong case.
• Legal Representation – Representation in court, negotiating settlements, and advocating for justice.
• Support Services – Guiding survivors to counseling and support groups for aided healing.

Laws and Regulations in Tennessee

Tennessee has amended its laws and regulations to provide support for survivors. Understanding these legalities is crucial for survivors seeking justice. Key aspects are as follows.

• Statutes of Limitations – Tennessee has a one-year statute of limitations for personal tort actions, including sexual abuse. For survivors under 18, this period starts one year after turning 18. The discovery rule applies, meaning the statute begins when the injury is discovered or should have been discovered with due diligence.Severe sexual abuse crimes like aggravated rape, rape, or sexual battery of a minor have no statute of limitations. Other offenses, such as sexual exploitation and statutory rape, must be prosecuted within fifteen years of the victim’s 18th birthday.
• Mandatory Reporting Laws – In Tennessee, privileged communications, except those between attorney and client, do not apply in cases of known or suspected child sexual abuse. Mandatory reporters, including clergy professionals, are legally required to report cases of suspected child abuse. Any person who knowingly fails to do so or prevents another from reporting commits an offense. A first violation is a Class A misdemeanor. A second violation is a Class E felony.
• Recent Legislative Changes – The state has made legislative changes to improve the handling of abuse cases and ensure more stringent oversight and accountability within religious institutions. Additionally, Tennessee law permits survivors to seek damages for emotional distress, medical expenses, and other related costs.

Filing a Clergy Sexual Abuse Lawsuit in Tennessee

Filing a clergy sexual abuse lawsuit in Tennessee involves several key steps. Here is a detailed walkthrough of the process:

• Initial Consultation: Meet with a specialized attorney to discuss your case and evaluate its merits.
• Investigation: Your attorney will gather evidence, including medical records, witness statements, and other relevant documents.
• Filing the Complaint: Your attorney will file a formal court complaint outlining the allegations against the clergy member and the church.
• Discovery: Here, both sides exchange information through depositions, interrogatories, and document requests.
• Negotiation and Settlement: We attempt to settle through mediation or negotiation. Many cases are resolved at this stage.
• Trial: Your attorney will prepare for trial if a settlement isn’t reached. During the trial, they’ll present your case in court, where a judge or jury will determine the outcome.
• Post-Trial: If necessary, address any appeals or enforcement of the judgment.

Contact Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers for a confidential consultation to discuss your case and begin your pursuit of justice.

Support Resources for Survivors in Tennessee

Survivors of clergy sexual abuse in Tennessee have access to various legal and emotional support resources for healing and total closure. Here are some key resources:

• Tennessee Coalition Against Domestic and Sexual Violence – Offers professional counseling services to help survivors heal emotionally
• The National Sexual Assault Hotline (1-800-656-4673) – Available for immediate support and guidance all over the US.
• Local support groups – Providing a safe space for survivors to connect and receive support and advice.
• Tennessee Crisis Services and Suicide Prevention: Provides 24/7 crisis intervention and support. Call 1-855-CRISIS-1 (1-855-274-7471).
• Sexual Assault Center of Tennessee: Offers counseling, support groups, and advocacy services for survivors. Explore their website for more information.
• Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline: Provides crisis intervention, information, and referrals—call (1-800-422-4453).

Notable Cases and Outcomes in Tennessee

Several credible allegations of sexual misconduct in Tennessee have come to light. The severity of the issue is troubling, leaving long-lasting trauma in its wake. These incidents highlight the need for accountability for the priests accused and amendments in policies.

The Nashville Diocese’s List – William Claude Casey was one of the many priests accused at the Roman catholic church. The accuser alleged him of sexual molestation at a catholic school gymnasium over 50 times. The review board found allegations in the Nashville Diocese’s List to be accurate and convicted him for 35-40 years.

Memphis Diocese Settlement: Walter Emala, a member of the Memphis Diocese, was credibly accused of sexually abusing boys of young age. A civil suit settlement and implementation of better policies followed this claim. His name was also mentioned on the Harrisburg Diocese’s list released later.

Civil Suit Filed at Father Ryan High School: Paul Haas was also credibly accused of sexual misconduct by over 100 people at a Catholic High School. These credible accusations led to settlements and Haas being removed from the priesthood at the Catholic Church.

There have been many more cases of abuse at the hands of priests in the Nashville diocese, the Paul Minneapolis Archdiocese, and the Allentown diocese. There is also the Savannah diocese’s list, Birmingham diocese’s list, and institutions like Bishop Byrne high school and St. Peter Villa, nursing and rehabilitation center. For many of these credible allegations and civil suits filed, the appeals court had the suit dismissed, leaving survivors deprived of justice.

Include this section: Our attorneys have reviewed public and private settlement data related to Tennessee 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?

Choosing the right attorney is crucial in cases of abuse. Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers is committed to providing exceptional legal representation for all survivors. Our team considers the unique nature of each case and ensures the best possible outcome.

• Expertise – Experienced team with a proven record of success in cases of abuse over the years.
• Compassion – Treating the case with empathy and compassion to ensure the best results
• Commitment – Dedication to seeking justice for our clients and holding perpetrators accountable.
• Comprehensive Service – Providing full legal services to ensure complete support throughout the process.

$14 Million Priest grooming and handling	$4 Million Deacon assault and rape	$3 Million Clergy child abuse filed in adulthood
$3 Million Volunteer-perpetrated Catholic church abuse	$2 Million Religious school priest teen sexual abuse	$2 Million Clergy abuse case filed against a deceased priest

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All content undergoes thorough legal review by experienced attorneys, including Jonathan Rosenfeld. With 25 years of experience in personal injury law and over 100 years of combined legal expertise within our team, we ensure that every article is legally accurate, compliant, and reflects current legal standards.