May 22, 2002
 

NEWS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDI ATE RELEASE
For more Information Contact
Reverend Dennis O'Donovan
(503)234-5334

        The Archdiocese of Portland respects the rights of both the accused and
accuser in considering allegations.

        The initial accusation against Father Krumm was made in 1980. It was
investigated and found not credible. The individual who accused Father Krumm
came forward again in 1992 as part of a case that involved 30 students who
accused 11 Franciscan friars of molestation over a period of 23 years. The
incident involving Father Krumm was investigated once more and was again
found not credible. A settlement was made as part of that larger lawsuit and
those priests who had credible accusations against them were removed from
public ministry. Two of the accused priests were sent to prison.

        Since the accusations against him were considered unfounded, Father
Krumm continued to serve at the California Parish to which he was assigned and
there were no other accusations against him.

        The Archdiocese of Portland was informed of these events when Father
Krumm was assigned to Ascension Parish. No complaints against Father Krumm
were received from among the parishes in California where he served in the 10
years he was with that diocese. Neither have there been any accusations from
anyone here.

        Just recently the possibility of other allegations from over 20 years ago
have come to light. Consequently, Father Krumm has been removed from public
ministry.

        We remain firmly committed that no priest against whom there are
credible accusations will serve in public ministry in this archdiocese.

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