Archdiocese of Indianapolis reaches settlement in abuse case

In an effort to help the victim of abuse by a former priest 35 years ago continue his healing process, the Archdiocese of Indianapolis has reached an amicable settlement in a lawsuit filed in 2005 by “John Doe RG.”

The settlement allows “John Doe RG” to avoid the emotional distress and expense of a public trial. “John Doe RG” was the first person to bring a lawsuit against the archdiocese regarding former priest Harry Monroe, and his courage in coming forward with his claim encouraged others to seek the help and support they needed.

“My hope is that this settlement helps this victim find the healing and peace he seeks,” said Archbishop Daniel M. Buechlein. “I apologize to this gentleman, his family and anyone who has ever been harmed by any employee or volunteer who has served the Church in our archdiocese. A single case of abuse is unacceptable, and we are committed to doing everything possible to see that it never happens again.”

Under the settlement, “John Doe RG” will receive payment for treatment and therapy expenses consistent with the Archdiocese of Indianapolis’ pastoral response to abuse victims as well as the reimbursement of his litigation expenses. The settlement will be paid from an archdiocesan self-insurance fund.

Monroe, who was ordained in 1974, served at St. Monica, St. Andrew the Apostle and the former St. Catherine parishes in Indianapolis. He also served at St. Patrick Parish in Terre Haute, St. Paul Parish in Tell City, St. Michael Parish in Cannelton and St. Pius Parish in Troy.

Monroe was removed from ministry in 1984 by then-Archbishop Edward T. O’Meara. He was permanently barred from presenting himself as a priest and conducting any priestly duties or ministries.

The Archdiocese of Indianapolis continues to respond to victims of sexual abuse with compassion and appropriate pastoral outreach. The archdiocese encourages anyone who has been abused or knows of any allegations of abuse to report it to the proper legal authorities.

If you or someone you know is a victim of sexual misconduct by a person ministering on behalf of the archdiocese, please contact law enforcement authorities and/or the archdiocesan victim assistance coordinator, Carla Hill, at Archdiocese of Indianapolis, P.O. Box 1410, Indianapolis, IN 46206-1410, or 317-236-1548 or 800-382-9836, ext. 1548.

More information about the Archdiocese of Indianapolis’ sexual misconduct policy and information about how to report an abuse incident can be found online at archindy.org/abuse. †