Complaints Name Notorious Perpetrators Fathers Thomas A. Rittenhouse & Michael J. Teta
(Trenton, NJ) – Today on behalf of three (3) courageous survivors, the firms of Jeff Anderson & Associates and Gianforcaro Law filed three (3) sexual abuse complaints against the Diocese of Trenton under the New Jersey Victims’ Rights Bill. Among the cases, two publicly name egregious abusers Father Thomas A. Rittenhouse and Father Michael J. Teta.
“These survivors were betrayed by the Diocese of Trenton when they were left vulnerable to abuse, harm and immeasurable trauma,” said attorney Greg Gianforcaro. “Today, the Diocese is pouring salt on the wounds by continuing to dodge accountability. These courageous survivors deserve better.”
The cases identify two (2) child abusers:
- Fr. Thomas A. Rittenhouse was ordained in 1976 in the Diocese of Trenton. He is accused of allegedly sexually abusing a minor while assigned to Holy Cross (Rumson) from approximately 1981 to 1982.
- Fr. Michael J. Teta was ordained in 1974 in the Diocese of Trenton. He is accused of allegedly sexually abusing a minor while assigned to St. Joseph’s (Bound Brook) from approximately 1974 to 1977.
“Despite a history of abusive behavior, the Diocese allowed Fathers Rittenhouse and Teta to remain in active ministry and have access to children for far too long,” said attorney Nahid Shaikh. “Both perpetrators have been previously accused of sexually abusing multiple children during their time within the Trenton Diocese. They rank among the most prolific abusers of children in the Diocese.”
“We are honored to stand with these courageous survivors who are breaking their silence and reclaiming some of the power that was taken from them as kids,” said attorney Jeff Anderson. “These survivors are taking a meaningful step to ensure that children are better protected in the future.”