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Bishop Involved in Sexual Abuse Case

Bishop Faces Felony Charges

When you think of a Bishop you really don’t think of sexual abuse. However, sometimes it happens. You just never know now days, it can happen anytime and any where.

There were a few charges that have been dropped against the Arizona Roman Catholic bishop. However, the former church officials still face the sexual misconduct charges for the allegations that he molested a young boy thirty-five years ago.

According to reports, a Maricopa County Superior Court judge actually dismissed counts of public nuisance, fraud, fiduciary fraud and even negligent infliction of emotional distress. That still leaves eight of the original fourteen counts.

The retired bishop, Thomas O’Brien was accused of sexually abusing a little boy on several occasions. This happened at parishes in Phoenix and Goodyear. This was in 1977 to 1982. However, O’Brien still denies the allegations.

O’Brien led the diocese in Phoenix then it became a global scandal. The allegations rocked the Catholic church, now rumors spread about pedophiles priests going unpunished.

Bishop Sexual Assault

The Bishop said that in 2003 in an immunity deal that he would let the church employees who were accused of the sex abuse would continue to have contact with the children. How sick is that? Just weeks after the immunity deal, O’Brien resigned as the Bishop and was later arrested for a hit and run death of a pedestrian.

O’Brien had been a bishop in Phoenix for at least 21 years. The bishop resigned in 2003. This was after being accused of hit and killing, 43 year old Jim Reed with his vehicle.

The bishop didn’t even stop to help Reed or even report the accident to the authorities. Later, he did tell the investigators that he didn’t even realize that he had hit a person.

He also said that he thought he had hit a dog or cat or that someone had even threw a rock at his car. The prosecutors said O’Brien tried to have his windshield fixed. So there’s a pretty good clue that something was wrong. If he didn’t know for sure why wouldn’t you report it or even stop to be sure.

The man was sentenced to probation as well as 1,000 hours of community service this was after he was convicted of leaving the scene.

Phoenix Assault Lawyer

Criminal Defense Cases

A verbal altercation in a bar or at your own home could be misconstrued as an assault charge. If you are accused of starting a bar fight or engaging in domestic violence, secure experienced legal help immediately. Understandably, you may feel tempted to explain your side of the story to law enforcement. But, any details you provide could be used against you.

At the Phoenix Offices of Criminal Defense Lawyers PLLC, we will act quickly to develop an effective defense strategy against battery and assault charges. Comprised of former prosecutors with comprehensive understanding of the criminal justice system, our team knows firsthand how prosecutors develop cases against individuals suspected of criminal assault. We are prepared to stay ahead of the prosecution through identifying any procedural errors, contradictory evidence or violations of your civil rights.

Types of Assault Cases

The highly skilled Attorneys at the Phoenix Offices of Criminal Defense Lawyers PLLC come equipped with a substantial background in defending individuals throughout Arizona and the greater Phoenix Metropolitan area who have been accused of offenses ranging from simple assault to aggravated assault with a deadly weapon. These offenses may include:

 

  • Domestic Violence
  • Spousal Abuse
  • Child Abuse
  • Sexual Assault
  • Assault and Battery
  • Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon

 

Choosing an Effective Assault Defense Strategy

Criminal Defense Lawyers PLLC will devote the right resources to develop an effective defense strategy against any damaging charges. They will meet with any eyewitnesses to understand the series of events before the alleged criminal activity occurred. We are prepared to craft a strategy around self-defense, if you were in fear of your life. They will also seek to illustrate any weaknesses in the prosecution’s evidence or contradictory statements from the plaintiff. When appropriate, we work with psychologists to illustrate the plaintiff’s state of mind and tendency to exaggerate or lie. Your case will be properly analyzed from every angle possible. If your civil rights were violated or procedural errors were made, we will fight for an acquittal.

Schedule a Free Consultation – Phoenix Assault Lawyer

If you or someone you know has been accused of a Violent Crime such as Assault, contact a Phoenix Criminal Defense Lawyer Today to Schedule a Free Consultation. With a wealth of expertise, a commitment to integrity and a passion for defense, the Attorneys at Criminal Defense Lawyers PLLC – Phoenix Criminal Defense Lawyers – are here to support you with your case. We believe every defendant has the right to a solid defense. Call us today for a free initial consultation at 480-351-6445.

 

Criminal Defense Lawyers PLLC
2942 N. 24th St.
Suite# 114-562
Phoenix, AZ 85008
(480) 351-6445
https://www.criminaldefenselawyers.me