TERRELL, Texas — A former Terrell clergy member was among a list names released by the Catholic Diocese of Dallas yesterday of clergy members "credibly accused" of sexual abuse of minors dating back to 1950.
TERRELL, Texas — A former Terrell clergy member was among a list names released by the Catholic Diocese of Dallas yesterday of clergy members "credibly accused" of sexual abuse of minors dating back to 1950.
The list was released by Bishop Edward J. Burns in conjunction with the 14 other Catholic dioceses in Texas after an announcement in September 2018 by all Texas bishops of their intent to release the list to protect children from sexual abuse and promote healing, restoration, and trust in the Catholic church.
"A 'credible allegation' is one that, after review of reasonably available, relevant information in consultation with the Diocesan Review Board or other professionals, there is reason to believe is true," read, in part, a letter from Burns. "Although I have also provided this list of names to law enforcement, inclusion on this list does not indicate that a priest is guilty of, been convicted of, or has admitted to the alleged abuse."
Father Raymond John Scott was among those listed by the Catholic Diocese of Dallas. Scott, who died in 2012, served as the pastor of St John the Apostle Catholic Church in Terrell from 1983 until 1999 when he retired from active ministry.
Scott is among 31 names released by the Catholic Diocese of Dallas and among more than 280 clergy members who were named statewide. More than half of the individuals named are listed as deceased.
The Catholic Diocese of Dallas did not release information on when or where the allegations stem. An inForney.com records request with the Terrell Police Department revealed there were no complaints of child-sex related crimes against Scott with their department during his service with the church in Terrell. Oftentimes the abuse goes unreported or reported to church officials and not disclosed to law enforcement.
Scott also served in the following capacities, according to his obituary: as an Assistant Pastor of St. Edward's, Dallas, 1948-1950; St. John, Ennis, 1950-1953; and Sacred Heart Cathedral, Dallas, 1953-1958. He served as Pastor of St. William, Greenville, 1958-1968; Sacred Heart, Wichita Falls, 1968-1969; St. Phillip, Dallas 1969-1978; Blessed Sacrament, Dallas, 1978-1983; and St. John, Terrell, 1983-1999.
Church officials say the list released yesterday will be updated with any additional names through their ongoing investigation into the matter.
Anyone who has been sexually abused by Scott or other members of clergy are encouraged to contact local law enforcement or call the Texas Abuse Hotline at 1-800-252-5400 or visit www.txabusehotline.org and the Diocese of Dallas Victim Assistance Coordinator, Barbara Landregan,at 214-379-2812.
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