Father James A. Finan
Father James A. Finan Timeline of Abuse and Church Appointments
James A. Finan was a Catholic priest ordained in 1959, who served in the Archdiocese of Washington. Father James A. Finan’s history is marked by multiple credible allegations of church sexual abuse claims against minors, leading to his removal from ministry, criminal convictions, and eventual death in 2013.
Below is a documented timeline of his appointments, reported abuses, and legal outcomes.
Timeline in the Catholic Church of Father James A. Finan
1959: James A. Finan is ordained as a priest in the Archdiocese of Washington.
1960s–1990s: Served in various parishes and roles within the archdiocese. (Detailed parish assignments can be found on Bishop Accountability: Fr. James Aubrey Finan Profile)
1966: Commits documented sexual abuse of a 10-year-old boy and is also accused of abusing a 6-year-old girl.
1996: First report of abuse is made to the Archdiocese of Washington. Finan is immediately removed from the ministry.
1997: Pleads guilty to sexually abusing a minor in 1966. Sentenced to 18 months in prison (Washington Post: Priest Pleads Guilty in 2nd Abuse Case).
2003: Pleads guilty to another count of sexual abuse involving a minor (Washington Post: Priest Pleads Guilty to ’66 Abuse).
2013: James A. Finan dies.
Summary of Father James A. Finan Abuse Charges
Finan’s abuse involved inappropriate sexual contact with minors while serving as a priest. Court records and victim statements indicate repeated abuse during the 1960s, with at least two cases resulting in criminal convictions.
He admitted to abusing at least one boy and was accused in other cases, including the abuse of a young girl.
Although a complete list of every parish assignment is not publicly available, Finan served across several parishes in the Archdiocese of Washington from his ordination in 1959 until his removal in 1996.
Archdiocese of Washington – List of Accused Priests
The Yost Legal Group: Advocating for Survivors of Clergy Sexual Abuse in Maryland
The Yost Legal Group is deeply committed to supporting and representing survivors of clergy sexual abuse throughout Maryland.
If you or someone you love was abused by a priest or anyone affiliated with the Archdiocese of Washington while at a parish in Maryland, know that you are not alone—and you have a safe place to turn for help.
Our team understands the courage it takes to come forward. We are committed to creating a compassionate and confidential environment where survivors can share their stories and seek justice without fear of judgment.
The Yost Legal Group has extensive experience handling sensitive cases involving child sexual abuse, including those connected to religious institutions. We are here to advocate for your rights, hold wrongdoers accountable, and help you pursue the justice and healing you deserve.
Your privacy and well-being are our top priority. We offer a free confidential consultation, and there are no fees unless we recover compensation for you.
If you’re ready to talk or have questions about your options, please contact The Yost Legal Group at (800)-YOST-LAW, (800) 967-8529, or by text at 1-410-659-6800. This is a safe space, and we are here to support you every step of the way.
Further Reading & Sources
Washington Post: Priest Pleads Guilty in 2nd Abuse Case
Washington Post: Priest Pleads Guilty to ’66 Abuse
Archdiocese of Washington – Accused Priests List
Maryland Clergy Sexual Abuse Claims – Maryland Church Abuse Claims – Maryland Priest Abuse Claims
Clergy Sexual Abuse Lawyers – Church Abuse Lawyers – Maryland Priest Abuse Lawyers