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Catholic High School of Baltimore Child Sexual Abuse Claims

Posted on March 11, 2025 by Loni Liss

A Timeline of Sexual Abuse Scandals and Accountability

In recent years, the Catholic High School of Baltimore has faced intense scrutiny due to allegations of sexual abuse spanning decades. The revelations have shaken the community, highlighting systemic failures in protecting students and addressing complaints. This blog explores the timeline of events, the key figures involved, and the legal and social implications of these cases.

If you or someone you love is a survivor of child sexual abuse suffered in a Maryland educational or religious institution, know that you are not alone. The Yost Legal Group will provide the help, guidance, and support you need.

Our experienced and compassionate sexual abuse lawyers are dedicated to standing by survivors to fight for accountability and justice.

With the passage of Maryland’s Child Victims Act, there are no longer time limits to confront the wrongs of the past. Whether the abuse occurred in a school, Church, after-school program, or another institution, we will help you seek justice.

Contact The Yost Legal Group sexual assault lawyers today for a free and confidential consultation. Call us at (800)-YOST-LAW (800-967-8529) or text us at 1-410-659-6800.

A Timeline of Allegations and Complaints at Catholic High School of Baltimore

1960s-1980s: Early Allegations Ignored

The history of abuse allegations at Catholic High School of Baltimore dates back over 60 years. Survivors have come forward with stories of sexual abuse at the hands of priests, nuns, and teachers during this period. Despite complaints being raised, many were dismissed or buried by school administrators and the Archdiocese of Baltimore.

One of the earliest known cases involved Father Joseph Maskell, a priest accused of abusing students in the 1960s and 1970s. Maskell’s actions were brought to light in the Attorney General’s report published decades later, as detailed in WBAL-TV’s coverage. Survivors reported that Maskell preyed on vulnerable students, using his position of authority to silence them.

1990s: The Spotlight on Abuse Intensifies

The 1990s saw an increase in awareness of clergy abuse, with survivors beginning to speak out. However, systemic changes were slow, and many perpetrators remained in positions of power. During this time, the school and the archdiocese continued to face allegations of failing to act on complaints.

2000s: Legal Actions and Public Outcry

The early 2000s marked a turning point as survivors began filing lawsuits against the school and the archdiocese. The cases highlighted not only the abuse but also the institutional cover-ups that allowed it to persist.

Maryland’s Child Victims Act: A New Era of Justice for Survivors

The release of the Maryland Attorney General’s report in 2023 was a watershed moment. The report detailed decades of abuse by clergy members, including those associated with the Catholic High School of Baltimore. It also revealed the extent to which the Archdiocese of Baltimore failed to address complaints, often prioritizing the reputation of the Church over the safety of students.

In October 2023, Maryland took a groundbreaking step in advocating for survivors of childhood sexual abuse by passing the new Child Victims Act. This transformative legislation removes the statute of limitations for filing claims against abusers, providing a pathway to justice for individuals who have suffered in silence for years—even decades.

Under the new law, survivors of abuse can now come forward, regardless of how long ago the abuse occurred, to hold their abusers and the institutions that enabled them accountable.

This change is monumental for older adults who may have felt that time had run out on their opportunity to seek justice. Many survivors carry the weight of their trauma throughout their lives, often not feeling ready or able to confront their abusers until much later.

The removal of the statute of limitations recognizes the unique challenges survivors face and ensures that their voices can be heard whenever they are ready to come forward.

Key Figures and Allegations About Catholic High School of Baltimore

Father Joseph Maskell

One of the most notorious figures in the molestation of students scandal, Father Maskell, was accused of abusing multiple students during his tenure. Survivors have described how Maskell used his position to intimidate victims into silence.

Teachers and Staff

In addition to clergy members, several teachers and staff at Catholic High School of Baltimore have faced allegations of abuse. A Baltimore Sun article highlighted the case of a teacher accused of sexual solicitation in 2024.

Archdiocese Leadership

The Archdiocese of Baltimore has also been criticized for its role in covering up abuse allegations. Survivors have shared their stories in court, emphasizing the need for accountability at all levels of leadership. This was reported by NBC Washington.

Legal and Social Implications

Survivors’ Stories

The courage of survivors coming forward has been instrumental in exposing the extent of the abuse. Their testimonies have shed light on the long-term impact of abuse, including trauma, mental health challenges, and a loss of trust in institutions.

Legal Actions

The Attorney General’s report has paved the way for legal actions against Catholic High School of Baltimore. Survivors are seeking justice through lawsuits.

Community Response

The revelations have sparked outrage and calls for accountability within the Baltimore community. Parents, alumni, and advocacy groups have demanded transparency and systemic changes to ensure the safety of students.

Moving Forward: Ensuring Accountability and Justice

The Catholic High School of Baltimore scandal is a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance and accountability in protecting vulnerable populations. As survivors continue to seek justice, institutions must prioritize their members’ safety and well-being over reputational concerns.

The courage of those who have come forward cannot be overstated. Their stories have not only exposed the failures of the past but also paved the way for a safer future.

For additional information, readers can explore the following articles:

WYPR: Baltimore City Catholic High School Removing Name of Nun from Auditorium

NBC Washington: Survivors of Church Sex Abuse Share Stories in Court

CNN: Baltimore Catholic Church Priest Abuse

Baltimore Sun: Baltimore County Teacher Sexual Solicitation Report

WBAL-TV: Church Abuse – Father Joseph Maskell Attorney General Report

Educational institutions everywhere must uphold their responsibility to protect and support the students they serve.

It’s Not Too Late: Seek Justice Under Maryland’s New Child Victims Act

If you were sexually abused or molested in a Maryland school, Church, after-school program, or any other institution, this law empowers you to take action. No matter how long ago the abuse occurred, you can now seek justice and accountability.

Our experienced child sexual abuse attorneys are here to support you every step of the way. Our team is deeply committed to providing compassionate, confidential, and professional representation for survivors of childhood sexual abuse.

Contact The Yost Legal Group today at 1-800-967-8529 for a free and confidential consultation. We understand the courage it takes to come forward and are here to listen, advocate, and fight for the justice you deserve. You are not alone; it is never too late to hold those accountable for their actions.

Your story matters. Your voice matters. And we are here to help you find the justice and healing you deserve. Reach out to The Yost Legal Group today—because it’s never too late to hold those responsible accountable.

Athlete Sexual Abuse Lawyer – Childhood Sexual Abuse Lawyer – Lawyer for Sexually Abused

Foster Care Sexual Abuse Lawyer – Clergy Sexual Abuse Lawyers – Catholic Church Sex Abuse Claims

How Grooming Happens & Ways to Protect Children

Posted on October 18, 2024 by Loni Liss

Grooming involves using persuasion and manipulation. If you’re experiencing the pain of child sexual abuse, it’s important to know that you’re not alone. There are many reasons why these experiences often go unnoticed or unspoken. Please consider reaching out to a trauma-informed therapist who can offer you a safe space to process your feelings and begin your healing journey.

It is important to remember that those who harm children are often individuals familiar with and trusted by them, like healthcare professionals, teachers, school bus drivers, or clergy members.

These individuals may not always resort to physical force. Instead, they might use methods such as play, deception, threats, or other forms of manipulation to involve children and keep them from speaking out.

Our focus should be on creating safer environments and supporting any child who may find themselves in such a difficult situation.

What is Grooming? Key Warning Signs Explained

Grooming is a deliberate and methodical process where an abuser builds trust with a child—and often their family—to facilitate sexual exploitation. It frequently begins with identifying susceptible children who may have certain vulnerabilities, such as low self-esteem, loneliness, or lack of attention at home.

It can include giving gifts or planning special activities to confuse the child. Abusers might also try to make inappropriate touching seem normal or isolate the child from family and friends.

This slowly breaks down any barriers the child might have against inappropriate behavior.

How Grooming Works and How to Recognize It

One of the most insidious aspects of grooming is how normal it can appear to outsiders. Abusers are adept at presenting themselves as caring figures in the child’s life—sometimes even acting as mentors or friends.

They may integrate themselves into community groups such as schools or sports teams where they have easy access to potential victims. By creating an environment that appears supportive and safe, they effectively mask their true intentions not only from their victims but also from those around them.

As grooming progresses, abusers often escalate their tactics in subtle ways that might not initially raise red flags. This could include introducing sexual content in conversations under the guise of education or jokingly testing boundaries with a physical touch that’s framed as accidental or playful.

These actions gradually desensitize a child to inappropriate behavior while simultaneously conditioning them to maintain secrecy about these interactions.

Child Abuse Statistics Every Parent Should Know

Retrospective research shows that 1 out of 6 boys will experience some form of sexual abuse before the age of 18.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2005)

Approximately 90% of children are abused by someone known to them, usually someone they know and trust.

Department of Justice, Office of Justice Programs, Bureau of Justice Statistics, Sexual Assault of Young Children as Reported to Law Enforcement (2000)

African American children have almost twice the risk of sexual abuse than white children.

Sedlak. Supplementary Analyses of Race Differences in Child Maltreatment Rates in the NIS–4. (2010)

Only about 38% of child sexual abuse incidents/cases are identified, and even fewer are reported.

London, et al. Disclosure of child sexual abuse: What does the research tell us about the ways that children tell? (2003)

Male adult child sexual abuse victims are 2.6 times more likely to report substance use problems (65% versus 25% in the general population).

Simpson, T.L. & Miller, W.R. (2002)

80% of children who have been sexually abused have some PTSD symptoms (post-traumatic stress disorder).

Shanta R. Dube, et al. Long-Term Consequences of Childhood Sexual Abuse by Gender of Victim. (2005)

It’s Not Your Fault—Support for Survivors

Survivors of child sexual abuse often find themselves feeling isolated and withdrawn from the people around them. It’s important to know that there are allies who understand, believe in your story, and are here to support you on your healing journey.

It’s not uncommon for survivors to feel guilty or blame themselves for what happened. However, you must remember that the abuse was never your fault. Those in positions of authority, such as church leaders, failed to protect you, and holding them accountable is crucial.

Legally, you have rights and options. A child sexual abuse attorney can act as a powerful advocate, offering protection and legal recourse against abusers. If the abuse happened in a place like a school, church, or detention center, it’s essential to share your story.

A sexual assault lawyer works closely with sexual assault survivors, providing gentle care and support. If you experienced abuse under the age of 18 in an institution or government facility, we can help you seek justice.

You’re Not Alone—The Yost Legal Group Can Help

The Yost Legal Group is committed to helping you seek justice. Our child sexual abuse lawyers in Baltimore, Maryland, are here to help you file a lawsuit. The Child Victims Act of 2023 protects survivors. It allows them to come forward no matter how long ago the abuse occurred.

Were you raped in a juvenile jail in the state of Maryland? Did you suffer child sexual abuse in a school or camp program? Were you molested in an institution or hospital? We can help you file a civil case.

Remember, you deserve to be heard, to receive justice, and to secure financial compensation. Contact The Yost Legal Group at 800-967-8529 for compassionate and confidential legal assistance. We’re here to listen and stand with you when you’re ready to talk.

Catholic Church Sexual Abuse and the Path to Justice

Posted on February 1, 2024April 5, 2024 by Loni Liss

The unwavering trust and faith that congregants once had in the Catholic Church has been shaken by disturbing reports of abuses committed within their ranks. Catholic Church sexual abuse has traumatized so many children and families throughout Maryland.

The institutional coverup against the molestation of thousands of children extended over decades. In no place were these abuses more deeply ingrained than the Archdiocese of Baltimore.

Our compassionate team of lawyers is here for church sexual abuse survivors. We are committed to giving individuals a platform to be heard and a safe place to share their stories.

Time is limited for you to seek justice against the harmful actions of trusted clergy. You can contact The Yost Legal Group at 1-800-967-8529 for a confidential conversation to understand your rights.

A Legacy of Betrayal: The Archdiocese of Baltimore Scandal

The recent revelations from the report on the Archdiocese of Baltimore expose a disturbing truth.

Those meant to protect and serve have instead enabled and sheltered abusers, betraying the trust of their parishioners and tarnishing the sanctity of the Church.

For more than 80 years, a sinister culture of secrecy enabled a horrifying sequence of events to unfold. The survivors, burdened by the truth they carried, have endured many difficulties due to their trauma.

Our compassionate sexual abuse lawyers are committed to helping you through an essential part of your healing. You can take back your power by standing up and fighting back to make the Church accountable.

Survivors Sharing Their Stories of Abuse in Maryland

As a survivor of the Church’s betrayal many have lived with deep emotional scars. Many survivors have revealed that our confidential sanctuary is the first place they have shared their stories.

At The Yost Legal Group, our unwavering commitment is to listen, guide, and support. Your experience is significant. Together, we can bridge the gap between silent suffering and the start of a new beginning that belongs entirely to you.

A Beacon of Hope on the Road to Redemption

As dedicated lawyers representing survivors of Catholic church sexual abuse, we provide support and guidance.

Our approach goes beyond legal advocacy. We are empathetic as we fight for the rights that were violated by an institution led by coverups and greed.

You have a right, a voice, and a chance to be heard. Our role is to guide you through your legal options, explain the claim process, and provide support.

You do not have to pay anything upfront when we make your claim. We will handle your case on a contingent fee basis. We only get paid after we reach a financial recovery for you. And if there is no recovery, no fees or expenses are due.

We will fight tirelessly on your behalf. Please know that you are not alone; we stand as allies in your pursuit of a restored sense of self and justice.

Embracing Your Right to File a Claim: Time is of the Essence

Time is running out for survivors seeking to hold the Archdiocese accountable. Time is of the essence, as this window of opportunity is shortening because the Church filed for Chapter 11 Bankruptcy.

For the brave survivors ready to take the next step, our doors are open to you. By making a confidential claim, you shine a light that validates your own truth and can potentially spare future innocents from similar ordeals.

Moving Forward with Unyielding Resolve

We recognize that this path is personal and unique. Our role is to walk it with you, providing strength in unity.

Your story, your church abuse claim, and your pursuit of justice are catalysts for change. We applaud you and your strength for standing up against your abuser and demanding change and accountability.

The Time for Action Is Now

We hope you take the vital step of contacting us for a free, confidential consultation.

Your voice has the power to break the cycle of abuse and ensure those responsible for perpetuating this unacceptable legacy are held accountable.

We stand ready to champion your cause, convey empathy without judgment, and be a steadfast ally in your journey.

It is time to act. It is time to seek the justice you deserve. Contact our dedicated team at 800-967-8529.

If you or a loved one was molested by any member or employee of the Archdiocese of Baltimore, you have a right to file a claim. You have a chance to come forward now to tell your truth in a safe, confidential environment. If you have any questions at all about the process of filing a claim, please give us a call. We would be happy to explain everything to you without any obligation.

Tag: molestation