Leto Copeley and Seth Langson, co-counsel from Charlotte, have filed suit against the Charlotte Diocese, alleging that the diocese knew that its priest, Father Farwell, had sexual addition issues. The suit alleges that the Diocese fraudulently concealed that knowledge and that Father Farwell abused a boy in the 1980’s.
“Our client has come forth now as an adult because he has only recently learned the extent to which the leaders of the Diocese knew about Father Farwell’s tendencies and the extent to which he was supported,” attorney Leto Copeley said.
Father Richard Farwell, 63, served at St. Ann Church in Charlotte as well as in Hickory, Lincolnton, Belmont, Burgaw and Wallace. In 2003, he was indicted on charges of taking indecent liberties with a minor in Rowan Superior Court. Following a plea of no contest, he was sentenced to 120 days in jail.
Watch coverage of the news conference in Charlotte here.