For First Time, Diocesan Leaders Call Sexual Harassment Allegations Against Michael Bransfield ‘Credible’
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Editor’s note: This story and headline have been updated to replace the word ‘abuse’ with harassment.
WHEELING — Archbishop William Lori said Tuesday that an investigation has found that allegations of sexual harassment of adults by former Wheeling-Charleston Diocese bishop Michael Bransfield are “credible.”
In a letter from Lori, he said the investigation of Bransfield uncovered “a consistent pattern of sexual innuendo, and overt suggestive comments and actions toward those over whom the former bishop exercised authority.”
Lori said the investigation did not find any “conclusive evidence” of sexual abuse of minors, just adults.
“Without a doubt, the alleged victims of former bishop Bransfield’s sexual harassment must be our first and constant concern,” Lori said. “Thus, the Diocese has committed to providing counseling to them and to all priests and lay personnel at the chancery. I have asked that a permanent program be developed and advertised to seminarians and priests. … For known victims, the Diocese will commit to reimbursing the costs for mental health assistance for a provider of their choosing. Further, I have mandated that a third-party reporting system for any allegation against a bishop of the Diocese be implemented.”