Supporting Survivors of Clergy Sexual Abuse at St. Agatha Parish in Chicago
Survivors of clergy sexual abuse at St. Agatha Parish in Chicago deserve answers, accountability, and a legal team dedicated to protecting their rights. Jeff Anderson & Associates has decades of experience representing survivors of clergy sexual abuse.
Victims of priest sexual abuse in Illinois have rights – it’s time to take your power back
St. Agatha Parish is one of the oldest African American Catholic parishes on Chicago’s West Side. Known for its welcoming congregation and rich musical tradition, including gospel-influenced worship, the parish has long served as a place of faith, community, and gathering.
From 2002 to 2006, Fr. Daniel McCormack was assigned to St. Agatha Parish. In 2005, allegations were reported to the Archdiocese of Chicago involving the alleged abuse of minor boys connected to the parish. Despite these reports, McCormack was not immediately removed from ministry. Instead, he remained an active priest while being monitored and instructed to avoid contact with minors.
In January 2006, McCormack was charged with aggravated criminal sexual abuse involving multiple children. He was removed from ministry only after the criminal charges became public. In 2007, McCormack pleaded guilty to five counts of aggravated criminal sexual abuse involving boys connected to St. Agatha Parish and was sentenced to prison.
Subsequent investigations and civil lawsuits revealed allegations extending far beyond the criminal case. The Illinois Attorney General’s clergy abuse investigation identified more than 100 allegations connected to McCormack. Court records and public reports have raised concerns about whether Church officials adequately responded to warning signs and prior complaints, allowing McCormack continued access to children over several years.
If you are a survivor of clergy sexual abuse in the Archdiocese of Chicago, you have rights and can take legal action. Contact us confidentially today.
Why Survivors of Abuse Choose Jeff Anderson & Associates
Our firm is partnered with Frost & Pearlman and is nationally recognized for uncovering institutional abuse and holding religious organizations accountable, including cases throughout Illinois and the Archdiocese of Chicago.
Experience in Sexual Abuse Cases: Our firm has a proven track record in handling complex and sensitive cases of sexual abuse. We have represented thousands of victims of sexual abuse in cases against individual offenders and the institutions that harbor them.
Trauma-Informed & Compassionate Advocacy: We provide personalized support tailored to your unique needs, ensuring that you receive respectful and empathetic care throughout the legal process. We don’t just handle clients; we empower survivors.
Commitment to Survivors: Our top priority is always the well-being of survivors. We strive to educate and empower survivors with choices throughout the legal process. We will work tirelessly to hold institutions like St. Agatha Parish accountable to prevent future abuse.
If you are a survivor of clergy sexual abuse in the Archdiocese of Chicago, you have rights and can take legal action. Contact us confidentially today.
Take the First Step Towards Justice
If you were sexually abused by a teacher or employee at St. Agatha Parish, you don’t have to face this alone. Our trauma-informed advocates help empower survivors and hold perpetrators and guilty institutions accountable. You may be able to take legal action anonymously. You can contact us confidentially to learn about your legal options. Reach out to get the justice you deserve today.
Frequently Asked Questions About St. Agatha Church Sexual Abuse Claims
Yes. There are pathways in the Archdiocese of Chicago that allow survivors of child sexual abuse to file civil claims at any time, no matter when the abuse occurred. We can help you understand your options and pursue justice when you are ready.
Can I remain anonymous when pursuing a claim in Illinois?
Yes. Survivors can file claims anonymously using a pseudonym, which keeps your identity private. We regularly file anonymous cases and protect your confidentiality throughout the process.
Who can be held liable for child sexual abuse at St. Agatha Parish?
Both the abuser and the institutions that allowed or ignored the abuse can be held responsible. This includes St. Agatha Parish and the organizations that oversaw its staff.
How does Jeff Anderson & Associates support survivors through the legal process?
We provide trauma-informed guidance, explain your legal options clearly, and handle the process with care and respect. Our team works to hold wrongdoers accountable while empowering you every step of the way.