April 10, 2015
Statement regarding the late Father James Roth, OSFS
An allegation of sexual abuse of a minor involving a former priest-in-residence with the board, the late Father Jim Roth has been deemed to be credible by his religious order, the Oblates of St. Francis de Sales. The misconduct occurred in a non-school setting 14 years ago in the USA. It predates his contract with the Dufferin-Peel Catholic District School Board, which was in effect from 2008 to 2015. In January 2015, Father Roth was recalled to the USA by his order to address the issue and was immediately removed from his duties at Dufferin-Peel as per practice. He passed away shortly after returning to the USA.
Father Roth’s duties with Dufferin-Peel were primarily related to adult faith formation, working with staff at the board’s administrative facility, the Catholic Education Centre. He also periodically celebrated liturgical activities in schools.
The Oblates of St. Francis de Sales have posted information on their website pertaining to the allegation and the story has recently been covered by local media in the USA and Canada.
The Dufferin-Peel Catholic District School Board strongly rejects any form of abuse. There have been no reported issues of abuse involving Father Roth during his time in Canada.
Any person with knowledge of, or who suspects abuse, should contact the Peel Children’s Aid Society (CAS) at 905-363-6131 (6860 Century Ave, Mississauga) or, in Dufferin County, Dufferin Child and Family Services (DCAF) at 519-941-1530 (655 Riddell Rd, Orangeville).
We are deeply saddened. Our thoughts and prayers are with the victim who came forward in the USA and with all victims of abuse.