Diocese of Aachen: Pastor in the focus of the investigation because of allegations of abuse!

Diocese of Aachen: Pastor in the focus of the investigation because of allegations of abuse!

In an extremely serious case of sexual abuse, this has Diocese of Aachen an active pastor is shown. The allegations, which go back to an anonymous whistleblower, concern an incident from the 2010s in which a person being confirmed was allegedly abused in a youth hostel outside the diocese. Diocese spokeswoman Marliese Kalthoff confirmed that canon law proceedings had been initiated against the priest. In addition, the Krefeld public prosecutor's office has been investigating since spring 2025.

The accused priest has not yet been questioned and a search is underway to find the author of the anonymous letter. Despite the serious allegations, which point to very stressful experiences, the priest continues to hold church services, carry out baptisms and hear confessions. When requested, the diocese did not provide any statements on the specific matters.

A worrying picture

The case joins a long list of allegations of abuse in the diocese of Aachen. Over 389 affected The diocese was aware of sexual violence up to December 31, 2025, with the names of 152 perpetrators, including 137 clerics and one religious sister, documented. Coming to terms with the systematic abuses will take many years and involve enormous financial effort: the diocese has paid a total of 4.5 million euros in recognition benefits by June 2025, without taking into account the costs of therapy.

The increase in known cases is alarming. In 2025, 385 affected people were known by name, which marks a significant increase compared to previous years. The clarification of old allegations and preventive measures are therefore at the top of the diocese's agenda. As part of this effort, in October 202365 other affected peopleon record, encouraged by a public appeal.

Social reactions

The repeated mention of such serious allegations has also caused increasing unrest among the public. The handling of abusive behavior within the church has been criticized. It is often argued that existing structures are not adequately designed to do justice to victims of abuse. Over the years, new allegations have repeatedly emerged, further shaking trust in the institution.

An example from the past shows the urgency of the issue: In 1969, a deceased priest was convicted of fornication with minors, which is just one of many disturbing stories that outline the dark history of abuse in the diocese of Aachen.

The tense and charged atmospheres created by such incidents leave no room for trivialization. The measures taken to deal with the situation are intended not only to acknowledge the pain of those affected, but also to initiate a rethink within the institution.