Sanborn, Iowa — A priest who was assigned to St. Cecilia’s Catholic Church in Sanborn more than 30-years ago allegedly sexually abused some 50 boys over a 20-year period.
According the published reports, Fr. Jerome Coyle served the Sanborn parish from 1978 to 1986. The now 85-year old priest was removed from his parish assignments in the 1980’s, after admitting to abusing the boys.
Fr. Coyle, was reportedly never defrocked, even after admitting to being a pedophile.
The story came to light last week after published reports indicated that the diocese had helped Fr. Coyle move into a retirement home in Ft. Dodge, that is located directly across the street from a Catholic school, without telling the school’s administrators.
The Bishop of the Diocese of Sioux City, The Most Rev. R. Walker Nickless was quoted as saying, “We are here because sexual abuse and misconduct by clergy has resurfaced. We thought we had dealt with it in 2002, but it resurfaced.” Bishop Nickless said he was “ashamed” about the violations of trust by not only Fr. Coyle, but by bishops and priests across the nation. The Bishop went on to say that he was sorry for the situation.
Now the Diocese of Sioux City is requesting those who may have been abused by Fr. Coyle, to please come forward and contact the Diocese. According to the Diocesan website, you should contact Victim Assistance Coordinator Angie Mack at 866-435-4397, or 712-279-5610 if you were sexually abused by Fr. Coyle.
