Pope Leo XIV Criticized for Allegedly Ignoring Sexual Abuse Claims Involving Priests in Chicago and Peru

Published: Friday, May 9, 2025 at 11:15 am

Pope Leo XIV Faces Scrutiny Over Alleged Handling of Sexual Abuse Claims

Pope Leo XIV, formerly known as Robert Prevost, is facing intense criticism and scrutiny regarding his past handling of sexual abuse allegations involving priests in both Chicago and Peru. Survivor groups are raising concerns about Prevost's actions during his decades of service within the Catholic Church, which included roles in the United States and South America.

The allegations center around Prevost's alleged inaction in response to reports of abuse. Specifically, he is accused of overlooking accusations against Father James Ray, an Augustinian priest, who was reportedly involved in the sexual abuse of minors. Despite Ray's removal from public ministry, he was allowed to reside near an elementary school in Chicago. Furthermore, Prevost is criticized for allegedly failing to notify the school of Ray's past.

In Peru, Prevost is accused of mishandling allegations against two other priests. Survivors claim the Diocese of Chiclayo, where Prevost served as head, downplayed details and documentation related to their claims. While the church stated Prevost did raise the complaints to Vatican authorities, survivor groups like SNAP (Survivors Network of those Abused by Priests) are condemning his failure to initiate a formal church investigation.

SNAP, along with other survivor groups, had reportedly informed the cardinals participating in the Conclave about their concerns regarding Prevost's past. Despite these warnings, Prevost was elected Pope Leo XIV. Survivor advocates express disappointment but hope the scrutiny will further highlight the ongoing sexual abuse scandals within the Catholic Church. They emphasize the importance of accountability and justice for victims, expressing concerns that systemic issues may persist despite efforts by previous leaders to address the issue.

Keywords: Pope Leo XIV, Robert Prevost, sexual abuse, Catholic Church, Chicago, Peru, Father James Ray, SNAP, survivors, allegations, Diocese of Chiclayo, Vatican, child abuse, clergy abuse, Conclave, accountability, justice.

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