Retired priest accused of sexual abuse reinstated after investigation – NBC Chicago

A retired priest accused of sexual abuse more than 40 years ago has been reinstated following an investigation by the Archdiocese of Chicago.

The Rev. William Killeen was accused of sexually abusing a minor more than 40 years ago while assigned to St. Patricia Parish in Hickory Hills, the archdiocese said.

The archdiocese's independent review board concluded that there was no reasonable reason to believe Killeen sexually abused a minor and recommended that he be reinstated to the pastorate. Killeen was removed from the ministry after the allegation was made in October 2023.

“The well-being of the children entrusted to our care is our top priority,” Cardinal Blase Cupich wrote in letters announcing Killeen’s reinstatement in eight parishes where he served throughout his career. “At the same time, I am committed to restoring the good name of the defendants when the case is without merit.”

The allegation was reported to civil authorities and the person making the allegation was offered the services of the Archdiocesan Victim Assistance Ministry.

Killeen has been retired since 2019 and, prior to his release, occasionally celebrated masses at St. Francis Xavier Parish and St. Cletus Parish, both in La Grange, and St. John of the Cross Parish in Western Springs. He was granted permission to lead the mass again.