Alabama Priest Leaves Clergy After Allegations of Sex-for-Support Arrangement
Robert Sullivan, a longtime Catholic priest in Alabama, has left the priesthood following disturbing allegations of financial and sexual misconduct. His departure, or laicization, came after Heather Jones, now 33, accused him of providing her with money in exchange for “private companionship,” including sex, starting when she was 17. The Catholic Church’s response, announced by Bishop Steven Raica of Birmingham, confirmed Sullivan’s voluntary removal but stated no diocesan funds were involved.
Woman Alleges Abuse of Power and Exploitation
Jones submitted a formal complaint to the Diocese of Birmingham and provided The Guardian with documentation, including emails, financial records, and a legal agreement. She claimed Sullivan supported her financially over several years, using his influence when she was vulnerable and underage. She said they met while she was working illegally at a Birmingham-area strip club. Sullivan, she alleged, presented himself as a doctor before revealing he was a priest. According to her, he took her to multiple cities for meals, shopping, and sex.
Church Investigation Clears Diocesan Funds, But Concerns Linger
Bishop Raica stated that a church inquiry found no link between Sullivan’s financial support and church money. Still, the case has unsettled the Birmingham Catholic community. Sullivan had been promoted to vicar general in 2020 and was pastor of the influential Our Lady of Sorrows church. While Sullivan has not faced legal consequences—since Alabama’s age of consent is 16—his accuser argues a power imbalance existed, making true consent impossible.
Critics Cite Clerical Power and Loopholes in State Law
Supporters of Jones argue that Sullivan abused his spiritual authority. Alabama lacks laws that define sexual relations between clergy and legal adults under spiritual guidance as exploitative. Detractors of the current legal framework believe it enables religious leaders to act with impunity. Some law enforcement agencies have historically been hesitant to prosecute clergy in such gray areas.
Sullivan’s Silence and Vatican Approval of Departure
Sullivan did not comment publicly after announcing “personal leave” in August. Bishop Raica’s latest statement confirms that Pope Francis approved Sullivan’s laicization request. Jones, who broke their legal silence agreement, said she feared other parishioners might be similarly vulnerable if she stayed quiet.
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Alabama priest leaves clergy after woman alleges ‘private companionship’ beginning when she was 17
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