The Rev. George Clements, known for his significant role in the Black Catholic movement and the ‘One Church, One Child’ adoption initiative, is now at the center of serious allegations. A series of lawsuits filed against the Archdiocese of Chicago claims Clements led a ‘decades-long child sex ring’ at his parish on the South Side.
Sean O’Malley, a lawyer with Hart McLaughlin & Eldridge, described Clements as a ‘charismatic local icon’ who turned out to be an ‘imposter’ and accused him of being a prolific child molester within the archdiocese.
Allegations and Lawsuits
Clements became the pastor of Holy Angels Parish in 1969 after strong support from the community. During his 22-year tenure, he allegedly used the Holy Angels school for repeated sexual abuse, as stated in the lawsuits. More than 100 individuals have come forward, alleging abuse by Clements or his associates, with victims as young as 5 years old.
The lawsuits filed so far include complaints from seven individuals, with more anticipated. The claims suggest the archdiocese failed to take action due to the victims’ race and economic status.
Details of the Alleged Abuse
Shortly after taking charge, Clements chose Paul Smith as the new principal. Under their leadership, the school adopted strict discipline policies. Lawyers allege these policies masked regular instances of sexual abuse by Clements. Another priest, the Rev. Kenneth Brigham, joined the rectory in 1972. Both Clements and Brigham faced allegations of hosting small parties where children were reportedly abused.
The complaints describe various patterns of abuse, including Clements using the guise of arranging an altar boy’s uniform for improper conduct. Brigham left the parish in 1978, but the plaintiffs assert the abuse continued.
Broadening Allegations
The lawsuits claim the abuse extended beyond students of Holy Angels. Clements supposedly used mentorship for further victimization, while Smith exploited tasks for children.
Clements left Holy Angels in 1991. His successor, John Calicott, similarly gained affection from the community but also faced allegations of abuse. Despite an initial admission of some misconduct, the archdiocese reinstated him in 1995, causing joy among parishioners.
However, further abuse allegations emerged, and in 2002, the archdiocese attempted to remove him. Calicott’s appeal was unsuccessful. He passed away in 2024. Clements died in 2019 as investigations into him continued.
Archdiocese’s Response
The Archdiocese of Chicago refrained from addressing specifics of the recent claims but emphasized child protection as a top priority. Their statement highlighted protocols and policies implemented since 1992, ensuring all allegations are reported to law enforcement.
Additionally, they provide support services, including therapy, to abuse survivors at the archdiocese’s cost.
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