Archdiocese of Chicago clears retired priest over decades-old abuse allegations

COOK COUNTY – A retired priest in Chicago suburbs was reinstated following an investigation into allegations he sexually abused a minor four decades ago.

Father William Killeen was asked to step down from eight parishes last October after the allegations emerged, stemming from his time at Saint Patricia parish in Hickory Hills.

The Archdiocese of Chicago launched an investigation, alerting police and bringing in the Independent Review Commission to review the findings. After reviewing the case, the board concluded there was no reasonable cause to believe Killeen had committed sexual abuse.

Following that ruling, the board recommended closing the case and allowing Killeen to return to the ministry.

In a letter to the community of St. Alexander Parish, Cardinal Blase Cupich emphasized the Archdiocese’s commitment to protecting children, saying, “The well-being of the children entrusted to our care is our primary consideration.”

Cupich added: “At the same time, I undertake to restore the names of those so accused if the case is unfounded.”

Killeen retired in 2019, but occasionally celebrates Mass in several parishes.