Archdiocese of Chicago restores pastor emeritus at church, school after child sex abuse allegations

ByABC 7 Chicago Digital Team WLS logo
Tuesday, June 15, 2021
Pastor emeritus at Chicago church cleared of sex abuse accusations
Father Dan McCarthy has been restored as pastor emeritus at a NW Side church after being cleared of child sex abuse allegations.

CHICAGO (WLS) -- The Chicago Archdiocese has cleared a priest who was accused of child sexual abuse.

Father Dan McCarthy is being restored as pastor emeritus, with residence, at Saint Elizabeth of the Trinity Parish and School.

Late last year, the Catholic priest was accused of abusing a minor while he worked at Angel Guardian Orphanage in Chicago 50 years ago.

The review board found insufficient reason to suspect McCarthy is guilty.

Saint Elizabeth of the Trinity is located on Chicago's Northwest Side.

Father Michael Pfleger, a prominent activist and South Side pastor, was also recently reinstated after being cleared of sex abuse allegations. He said he struggled with isolation, depression, and even suicidal thoughts during the investigation.