Chicago Personal Injury Lawyer Blog
The sexual abuse lawyers at Abels & Annes, P.C., working with co-counsel, have represented several alleged victims of former Father Daniel McCormack, a man once employed by the Archdiocese of Chicago. During his time with the church, allegations began to surface of sexual improprieties between McCormack and multiple children, all of whom were minors and all of whom had regular, unsupervised interactions with McCormack.
The allegations began during McCormack’s days as a seminarian but no action against McCormack was taken for years. In 1994, McCormack was ordained a priest and began his ministry services as such with the church, a position he maintained until 2006. He served many roles in several churches including assignments at Holy Family Parish and Saint Agatha’s Parish. At times during his employment, McCormack coached the boys’ basketball team.
Years after allegations of sexual misconduct initially arose, McCormack was arrested and criminally charged with committing crimes against several minor boys. In 2007, McCormack pleaded guilty to three counts of aggravated criminal sexual abuse of children under the age of 13, crimes that led to a prison sentence. Since 2009, McCormack has been confined to the Illinois Department of Human Services’ facility in Rushville, Illinois as a petition to keep McCormack detained indefinitely under the Sexually Violent Persons Commitment Act is being considered in court.
On Wednesday, a judge issued an arrest warrant for McCormack in relation to a 2005 incident with a 10-year-old boy. Authorities are charging McCormack with aggravated criminal sexual abuse in response to the alleged event and McCormack is expected to appear in court today on that charge.
Incidents involving former Father McCormack have been covered heavily in recent years as more and more alleged victims continue to step forward and make claims of abuse against McCormack. In addition, many have claimed that the Archdiocese of Chicago and Cardinal George knew or should have known of the alleged abuse yet they took no actions to stop or prevent it, allowing the abuse to continue over decades and exposing numerous additional victims as a result.
Victims of Father Daniel McCormack and other priests of the Catholic Church may be entitled to relief for their injuries as a result of the abuse they suffered. Speaking with a lawyer who represents victims of sexual abuse may help you understand your legal rights and whether you are entitled to relief.
At Abels & Annes, P.C., we believe that all abuse victims deserve to speak with a lawyer whenever they need answers. That is why we have an attorney standing by 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year to take your call toll free at (855) 529-2442 or locally at (312) 924-7575. There is no obligation for speaking with us and the consultation is always free.
At Abels & Annes, P.C., we understand that sexual abuse by a trusted adult can leave lasting damages and that all areas of a victim’s life may be affected. We fight for our clients’ rights so that the best possible outcome can be obtained in any case. If you have been victimized by Father McCormack or a member of the Catholic Church, call us today and let us help you get the relief you deserve.
Prior Blog Entry:
Motorcycle Accident in Chicago Turns Fatal, Chicago Personal Injury Lawyer Blog, published May 19, 2014.
Resource:
New charges filed against defrocked priest in 2005 case, by Carlos Sadovi, Chicago Tribune, published May 22, 2014.