Diocese Adds Late Priest to List of Credibly Accused Clergy

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The Roman Catholic Diocese of Springfield has added the late Father Raymond Leveillee to its list of credibly accused clergy members of sexually abusing a child. The abuse dates back to the early 1970s, and the diocese has also added credible findings against two other deceased priests, Father Andre Corbin and Father Placid Kaczorek.

Why it matters

The addition of these names to the diocese's list of credibly accused clergy members is an important step in transparency and accountability, even for priests who have passed away. It allows the diocese to acknowledge past wrongdoings and provide information to the public about credible allegations of abuse.

The details

According to Leveillee's obituary, he retired in 2003 and died in 2007 at the age of 84. He served parishes in Springfield, Greenfield, Orange, and the Berkshires between 1950 and 1988, with his last assignment at the former St. Patrick's Parish in Hinsdale and the former St. Mathew's Parish in Becket from 1971-1988. The diocese noted that an allegation being found credible does not mean a finding of guilt, and because Leveillee was deceased when the allegation was brought forward, he was unable to respond to it. However, a diocesan review board has found the allegation to be credible.

• Leveillee retired in 2003.
• Leveillee died in 2007 at the age of 84.
• Leveillee served parishes from 1950 to 1988, with his last assignment from 1971 to 1988.