Another Allegation Against Archdiocese of Chicago Priest Michael Pfleger

(For Immediate Release October 16, 2022) 

Another victim has stepped forward with a claim against Fr. Michael Pfleger. And again, allegations against Pfleger are heightened, especially when the accused abuser is adorned and well-known. Our hearts go out to the victim who shared their truth, and we hope that they and their families are receiving the support and professional assistance that they require.

It's hardly surprising that Fr. Plefger has returned to the spotlight. This is the fourth public accusation, according to our count. Because relatively few claims are proven untrue, as the accusations mount up, everyone should assume that they are real. This circumstance is like that of defrocked priest Craig Harrison of the Fresno, California Catholic diocese, whose victims' trail began in the 1990s. He had a cheering section until the very end when he was laicized. To prove his innocence, he burnt the soil. It required the bravery of an adult whistleblower who saw some of Harrison's activities before the bishop of Fresno began to stand with the half dozen victims or their advocates who had come forward over three decades.

Fame frequently shields predators. For years, Theodore McCarrick was discussed in Catholic circles before being sidelined. We repeat our plea for individuals concerned about Fr. Pfleger to express their feelings quietly. Cardinal Blase Cupich must do more and get to the truth about allegations against Pfleger whether the assault occurred yesterday or 50 years ago. The Archdiocese of Chicago is in a difficult position: it does not want to be sued and lose money; therefore, it has a solid motive to utilize its internal review board to attempt to resolve the issue. Perhaps, after four allegations, it is time to sit Plefger down and support these brave victims, as well as the others who may still be sitting in silence.

CONTACT: Mike McDonnell, SNAP Communications Manager (267-261-0578, [email protected])  Zach Hiner, SNAP Executive Director (517-974-9009, [email protected]), Larry Antonsen, SNAP Chicago (773-255-3382, [email protected])  

 (SNAP, the Survivors Network, has been providing support for victims of sexual abuse in institutional settings for 30 years. We have more than 25,000 survivors and supporters in our network. Our website is SNAPnetwork.org)

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