The Archdiocese of Detroit has learned that a Mr. Herbert Richey, removed from priestly ministry in the Toledo diocese in 1992 and laicized in 1997, has served recently as an organist at one of its parishes (St. Margaret of Scotland, St. Clair Shores) and possibly at other parish locations during the past decade. When discovered working in a similar position at a downriver parish in 2002 (St. Joseph, Trenton), Mr. Richey was immediately removed and ordered by the Detroit archdiocese not to work in any of its parishes or schools. The Archdiocesan Review Board will commence an investigation of this matter with the intention of assuring this unacceptable situation does not happen again.
Although he has never served as a priest in the Detroit archdiocese, Mr. Richey's name has been added to the Priest and Policy Status Report available at www.AODcommunications.org.
To inform the Archdiocese of Detroit regarding the sexual abuse of minors by priests, deacons and other Church personnel and/or to speak to the Victim Assistance Coordinator, contact: 866.343.8055. There are no time limitations or restrictions on reporting such incidents.
