Detroit, Michigan – Sommers Schwartz, P.C., a renowned law firm in Michigan, is championing a legal battle against Father Richard T. Craig, bringing to light allegations of sexual misconduct involving minors.

Father Richard T. Craig, ordained in 1988 in the Diocese of Marquette, came under scrutiny in 1991. A young boy, during a counseling session with Catholic Social Services, revealed that he had been sharing a bed with Father Craig. The Diocese’s Sex Abuse Team immediately initiated an investigation, uncovering unsettling details. Father Craig had kissed the boy, hugged him, and insisted he be referred to as “Daddy.”

In the wake of these revelations, Father Craig requested a leave of absence from the diocese, citing “personal reasons.” He subsequently sought treatment at various hospitals and institutions. Unfortunately, his leave did not mark the end of such incidents.

In 1993, another minor claimed that Father Craig had made inappropriate sexual advances toward him during a camping trip. The diocese, after an internal review of the matter, verified the claim and unanimously called for Father Craig’s resignation from the priesthood. In 2018, Father Craig was invited to voluntarily defrock and is currently listed among the diocese’s priests accused of perpetrating sexual misconduct against minors.

At Sommers Schwartz, the clergy abuse attorneys, Lisa Esser-Weidenfeller, Matthew Curtis, and Jay Yasso, have dedicated themselves to fighting for sexual abuse survivors. The firm has a remarkable track record, having recovered millions from high-profile perpetrators, including Dr. Larry Nassar—former Michigan State University and USAG team physician—and Robert Anderson, who abused students, athletes, and patients at the University of Michigan for over three decades.

Sommers Schwartz is ready to combat for you. If you have been a victim of sexual abuse by Father Craig or any other ecclesiastical leader, the firm urges you to come forward. Sommers Schwartz offers a free consultation and promises a supportive and confidential environment throughout the legal process. The experienced attorneys will treat your story with the compassion, empathy, and sensitivity it deserves while tirelessly fighting for justice.

The firm stands committed to holding sexual predators accountable and ensuring survivors receive justice. This case against Father Richard T. Craig echoes Sommers Schwartz, P.C.’s relentless pursuit of justice, and the firm is determined to secure justice for all victims of sexual abuse.

CASE INFORMATION
DIOCESE OF MARQUETTE INVESTIGATION
Dana Nessel – Michigan Attorney General
Report Released October 27, 2022