Notre Dame’s Inadequate Response to Misconduct Allegations

An inquiry commissioned by the University of Notre Dame revealed shortcomings in the institution’s response to sexual misconduct allegations. The investigation, led by the law firm Debevoise & Plimpton, focused on Rev. Thomas King, a former priest and dormitory rector accused of misconduct against students.

The report highlights a coercive “weighing scheme” employed by Father King during the 1980s and 1990s. He purportedly expressed concern about the health of male students and directed them to a locker room, instructing them to undress for weighing. Many students reported instances of sexual touching or assault by Father King, occurring both at Notre Dame and after his transfer to Holy Cross College.

Debevoise & Plimpton’s 25-page document concluded that Notre Dame, recognized as a leading Catholic university, should have taken more decisive action concerning these allegations. Witnesses reportedly complained to university officials as early as the 1990s, yet the response was inadequate.

This report is not isolated, as it references other past instances of alleged sexual abuse by priests at the university. Staff from two departments supposedly receiving the complaints were interviewed, but none recalled handling such concerns. Others who did receive complaints did not recognize the sexual nature of the “weighing”.