Allegations of past sexual misconduct at Notre Dame residence hall prompt external investigation
UPDATE 9/26: A non-profit support group for survivors of church sex abuse is calling on more potential victims to come forward.
On Wednesday, the University of Notre Dame announced an outside investigation by a well-known law firm on Father Tom King, who lived and worked as a Rector at the all-male "Zahm Hall" on campus from 1980 to 1997.
Multiple former students who lived in that residential hall have come forward to the "Survivors Network of those Abused by Priests" with claims against Father Tom King.
SNAP Counselor Mark Fuller writing a statement to ABC57 saying quote:
"It takes tremendous courage for victims to come forward and report these crimes. These men should be applauded. When victims come forward it not only helps protect the vulnerable, it also heals the wounded.
Anyone who suffered from abuse or coverups at Notre Dame should contact law-enforcement.
Sexual abuse is a terrible wound which leaves its victims debilitated. Survivors suffer with addictions, failed or strained relationships, anhedonia, depression, anxiety and much more. The legacy of abuse can be a life of hell. We suggest that anyone in pain reach out for support.
Investigations performed by biased Church officials (or lawyers hired by same) are suspect. It's important to have independent, experienced and unbiased legal and law enforcement professionals investigate.
SNAP is against sexual abuse and cove ups. Not against any specific religion or institution. Abuse happens in all
organizations
SNAP is against sexual abuse and cover ups. Not against any specific religion or institution. Abuse happens in all
organizations.
SOUTH BEND, Ind. -- A special committee will oversee an external investigation into allegations that Rev. Thomas King engaged in sexual misconduct while he was the rector of Zahm Hall.
King served as rector of the residence hall from 1980 to 1997. The University of Notre Dame announced that President Rev. Robert Dowd, C.S.C. requested that the University's Board of Trustees convene a special committee. The external investigation will be led by the law firm Debevoise & Plimpton LLP. Key findings will later be shared with the University of Notre Dame community and the public.
Anyone with additional information is urged to contact Debevoise & Plimpton LLP at [email protected].
King's assignments 1969-2020:
- 1969-1979 Notre Dame High School for Boys - Niles, Ill.
- 1980-1997 University of Notre Dame - Zahm Hall Rector
- 1980-2007 Holy Cross College - History Teacher
- 1998-2007 Sacred Heart Church - Lakeville, Ind.
- 2007-2020 St. Mark's Church - Niles, Mich.
Rev. Dowd and University of Notre Dame Board of Trustees Chair John Veihmeyer released this joint letter to alumni who resided in Zahm Hall between 1980 and 1997:
"Dear Members of the Notre Dame Community,
As University leaders, our most important duty is ensuring the well-being of our students and all who come to our campus. Sadly, we write to share allegations that Fr. Thomas King, C.S.C., engaged in sexual misconduct while rector of Zahm Hall, where he served from 1980 to 1997. In light of these allegations, the University’s Board of Trustees, at our request, has convened a special committee to oversee an external investigation of the allegations and the University’s handling of any past complaints regarding Fr. King.
The external investigation will be led by Helen Cantwell at the law firm of Debevoise & Plimpton LLP, and the key findings of the investigation will be shared with the University community. Ms. Cantwell, who has not previously advised the University, is highly experienced in this important and sensitive work. We know she will lead this investigation with the expertise, thoroughness, and compassion our community deserves.
We are saddened that there are members of our community who may have suffered abuse while here and may not have received the support, care, and love they deserve. The alleged conduct is antithetical to Notre Dame’s values, and we urge anyone with additional information or who may have been a victim to contact Debevoise & Plimpton LLP via email at [email protected].
We want to assure you that any information provided will receive careful, fair, and serious attention. Our hope is that this external investigation will provide those who may have been affected with the opportunity to be heard. We recognize that moments like these can be difficult, and we are grateful for our community’s shared commitment to building a safe and healthy environment where all can flourish."