An investigation at the University of Notre Dame has revealed significant shortcomings in the institution’s response to sexual misconduct allegations against a former priest.
The report, requested by Notre Dame and conducted by Debevoise & Plimpton, focused on Rev. Thomas King. During the 1980s and 1990s, King allegedly carried out a manipulative ‘weighing scheme’ at the university. This involved him expressing concern for male students’ health and persuading them to disrobe in a locker room for weighing.
The report stated, “Once in the locker room he would direct students to undress fully before they stepped onto a scale.” It was found that King sexually touched or assaulted multiple individuals, both at Notre Dame and while at Holy Cross College.
Notre Dame, a prominent Catholic university, was criticized in the 25-page report for its inadequate response to the allegations. There were claims that some witnesses had reported King’s behavior to university staff as early as the 1990s.
The investigation also highlighted that the university had faced similar allegations involving other priests in the past. Staff members from two departments believed to have received complaints were interviewed, yet no one recalled such reports. At times, university employees hearing these complaints did not realize the potential sexual nature of the ‘weighing’ practices.
Leave a Reply