The Diocese of Wheeling-Charleston has added nine additional names to the list of priests associated with the diocese accused in sexual abuse incidents since the 1950s, bringing the total number to 40.
The diocese released its original list in November, and updated it last week following a visit to Wheeling by West Virginia Attorney General Patrick Morrisey. Morrisey called for more cooperation and transparency from the diocese as investigations continue into sexual abuse claims made against diocese priests — including former bishop Michael Bransfield.
Phone messages left with the diocese Friday afternoon were not immediately returned.
The lists now includes the names of 20 priests accused of sexual abuse while serving in the diocese, and another 20 who were credibly accused while serving elsewhere.
Priests Accused of Incidents While With Diocese
The one priest added to the list of those accused of an incident while with the diocese has ties to the Wheeling area.
Rev. Andrew F. Lukas is listed as having served at St. John Church in Benwood from November of 1958 until June of 1959, and he is accused of abuse of a minor while there. The allegation was reported to the diocese in January after the original list of names was released, according to information provided by the diocese.
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