Personal Injury Blog

Diocese of Trenton

Bringing Claims against the Diocese of Trenton for Child Sex Abuse Survivors

Many young parishioners and students of the Diocese of Trenton had their religious experience marred by child sex abuse by clergy and other employees of the church. Abuse allegations against dioceses around the country are only escalating, and Trenton, New Jersey, is no different. This is especially the case since New Jersey legislators greatly expanded the rights of abuse victims in 2019.

It can be highly emotional and difficult to come forward with abuse allegations, and recounting what happened to you as a child can be traumatic. However, speaking with a trusted attorney is the first step toward seeking justice and possible closure. The Leonard Legal Group is handling child sex abuse claims against the Diocese of Trenton, and we will represent you with the respect and care you deserve. Contact us for a confidential consultation today.

Allegations against the Diocese of Trenton

So far, numerous priests and employees have faced accusations of child sex abuse. Monsignor Gregory D. Vaughan was removed from the ministry in 2019 due to credible allegations of abuse. The following are additional individuals who are facing accusations, though this is not meant to be a complete list. Many abusers might not have had allegations reported, so you can still bring a claim if your abuser is not one of the following:

  • Apura, Romannilo (Nilo)
  • Balestrieri, Edward
  • Becker, Ronald
  • Bruno, Francis “Frank” D.
  • Burek, Marcin
  • Burns, Michael J.
  • Eliscard, Jean-Level
  • Fernandez, Manuel
  • Garry, Michael M.
  • Inghilterra, Vincent
  • Kelty, Leo A.
  • Kuruthukulaugara, Jose Ignatius
  • Magee, Patrick Francis
  • McAlinden, Terence O.
  • McHugh, Joseph
  • Milewski, Richard
  • O’Donoghue, Charles
  • Parenti, Robert J.
  • Riedlinger, Matthew
  • Selvaraj, James
  • Tumang, Florencia Peneda
  • Velan (Christudas), Marukudiyil (Chris)

Whether or not you see the name of your abuser, you should learn about your rights to hold the Diocese of Trenton liable for the harm you suffered.

Do Not Wait to Discuss a Possible Case

Before December 2019, child sex abuse victims could only bring a claim within two years of discovering the abuse or until age 20. This left little time for abuse victims to take action, especially since many people are not ready to discuss their experience within a short timeframe. Now, the new law that took effect extended the statute of limitations significantly, and you can bring a claim within seven years of discovering the abuse or until age 55.

In addition, the law opened up the opportunity for all child sex abuse survivors – regardless of their age or time passed – to file claims within two years or until November 30, 2021. The clock is counting down, so it is important to seek legal help as soon as you can if you believe you have a case against the Diocese of Trenton.

Learn How a NJ Child Sex Abuse Lawyer Can Help You Take Action against the Diocese of Trenton

If you believe you are ready to hold the Catholic church accountable for the harm you suffered, contact the Leonard Legal Group for help. We are handling child sex abuse claims against dioceses across New Jersey, so please call 973-984-1414 or contact us online for a confidential and free case evaluation.