LIST OF CLERGY ACCUSED OF SEXUAL ABUSE OF A MINOR
On April 10, 2024, the Diocese of Manchester added three priests to its list of clergy accused of sexual abuse of a minor as part of its continuing effort and commitment to protecting children and young people. The information, assignment histories, and additional resources are available at catholicnh.org/restoringtrust.
Reverend George Desjardins has been listed on the Restoring Trust website under the category “Cases Concluded” for a report of abuse that took place more than forty years ago that was received recently. Fr. Desjardins is alive and has been retired since 2002. He is prohibited from ministry.
Reverend Matthew Schultz has been listed on the Restoring Trust website under the category “Cases in Process,” which are cases involving living Diocesan priests, but where the canonical proceedings are not yet complete. Fr. Schultz is prohibited from ministry. Out of respect for those involved and because the case is still in process, no further information will be disclosed at this time.
Reverend André Thibodeau has been listed on the Restoring Trust website of the Diocese of Manchester as a Deceased Priest accused of sexual abuse of a minor for a report received after his death. Fr. Thibodeau died in 2015.
Law enforcement has been notified of the reports concerning all three priests. Whenever it becomes aware of a report of sexual abuse of a minor by a priest, deacon, diocesan employee, or volunteer, the Diocese ensures that the New Hampshire Attorney General’s office is notified, even if the misconduct took place many years ago.
Anyone with information pertaining to sexual abuse in the Church is encouraged to make a report to law enforcement. For information on how to report abuse, to request counseling or other services, or to learn more about how the Diocese of Manchester works to create a safe environment in all our ministries, visit catholicnh.org/safety.