MADISON, WI (WSAU) – A former cardinal has been charged with fourth-degree sexual assault in connection with an incident that occurred in 1977.
The charge against retired cardinal Theodore McCarrick, 92, was revealed on Monday by Attorney General Josh Kaul and Walworth District Attorney Zeke Wiedenfeld.
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The accusation originates from a report to Kaul’s Clergy and Faith Leader Abuse initiative. According to a press release from Kaul, the lawsuit alleges persistent sexual abuse over time. The specific charge stems from an allegation that he fondled the victim’s genitals at a Lake Geneva property.
Anyone who has witnessed or knows about clerical or church leader abuse is asked to report it to the Department of Justice. Reports can be submitted online or by phone at 1-877-222-2620.
