Woman Sues Diocese of London Over Alleged Sexual Abuse at Kingsville Parish
A woman has initiated legal proceedings against the Diocese of London, claiming she was sexually abused by a priest at St. John De Brebeuf Roman Catholic Church in Kingsville, Ontario, approximately 50 years ago. The lawsuit, filed in Windsor, alleges that the abuse occurred when she was a minor and that the diocese failed to protect her.
The plaintiff, whose identity is protected under a publication ban, seeks damages for the physical and psychological harm she suffered. The allegations date back to the 1970s, when the accused priest was serving at the Kingsville parish. The diocese has not yet filed a statement of defense.
In a statement, the Diocese of London expressed sympathy for the plaintiff but declined to comment on the specifics of the case, citing the ongoing legal process. The accused priest has not been named in the lawsuit and is believed to be deceased.
This case adds to a growing number of historical sexual abuse claims against the Catholic Church in Canada. The plaintiff's lawyer stated that the lawsuit aims to hold the institution accountable for its alleged failure to prevent abuse and to provide some measure of justice for the survivor.
