Media reports just released that Father Jerome Kaywell of the Diocese of Venice has been recently accused of sexual misconduct with a minor. On January 26, 2024, the diocese sent a letter to parishioners of Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Punta Gorda, notifying them of the sexual misconduct allegations that were made against Father Kaywell.
According to the letter, Bishop Dewane of the Diocese of Venice wrote that the victim claims the incident(s) happened in 2013-2014 and that Fr. Kaywell had been placed on administrative leave pending an investigation. The letter also states that Kaywell denies the allegations and urges anyone who believes they are a victim of sexual abuse to contact law enforcement officials.
The following statement was released from The Diocese of Venice:
“In accordance with the Diocesan Policy for the Protection of Children and Vulnerable Adults, upon learning of the allegation, I have placed Father Kaywell on administrative leave pending a preliminary investigation. Anyone who believes that he or she has been the victim of sexual misconduct by someone serving in ministry for the Diocese of Venice or any organization should contact law enforcement officials. The Diocese of Venice provides a Victim Assistance Coordinator, who can be reached at 941-416-6114. As your Bishop, I wish to state again that the Diocese of Venice remains committed to doing all that can reasonably be done to protect children and vulnerable adults.”
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