Local priest target of more sexual abuse claims
After a local priest was placed on leave from the Louisville Archdiocese in July for allegations of sexual misconduct, additional victims are coming forward to report more instances of alleged abuse. Four other people have now made allegations to church officials claiming misconduct by the Rev. Jaems R. Schook. Schook is still being investigated by by the Church and local police. Louisville Metro Police Department's Crimes Against Children Unit is currently investigating two separate incidents and have interviewed at least one victim. No criminal charges have been filed against Schook at this time.
The allegations involve claims of sexual abuse by Schook of people who werer children at the time, except for one victim who has claimed the abuse took place while they were an adult. Some of the allegations range as far back as the 1970's. The initial claim of abuse came while Schook was serving as pastor of St. Ignatius Martyr Church on Rangeland Road and involved a man who claimed that Schook sexually abused him in 1985. It was at that point that Schook was placed on leave by the Church oending an investigation.
While the Church and the police continue to investigate, one can only hope that justice prevails. If you have questions about the rights of those who have been harmed by the abuses of others, please contact Bahe Cook Cantley & Jones PLC.
