Father James DeOreo, a priest in Indiana, is suing the Diocese of Lafayette-in-Indiana for fraud and defamation after he was suspended over false allegations of sexually abusing a minor. DeOreo alleges that the diocese and its vicar general, Father Theodore Dudzinski, committed defamation and fraud against him in a conflict that spanned several years.
The allegations against DeOreo stemmed from a parishioner’s claim that he had encouraged them to engage in spiritual and ascetic practices that led to an eating disorder. Despite an investigation finding no abuse had occurred, the diocese agreed to pay for the parishioner’s therapy. DeOreo claims that Dudzinski interfered in the therapy sessions and threatened to reopen the investigation if sexual allegations were made.
Subsequently, the parishioner made false allegations of abuse against DeOreo, leading to his suspension in March 2022. The diocese publicly disclosed the allegations, further damaging DeOreo’s reputation. DeOreo is seeking $10 million for the loss of his reputation and unspecified damages against Dudzinski.
The diocese declined to comment on the proceedings, citing pending litigation, while Dudzinski’s office did not respond to queries. DeOreo previously sued the original accuser, settling out of court. The priest, ordained in 2018, now seeks justice for the harm caused by the false accusations.
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