Father Joseph Marcel Lessard

Diocese of Phoenix

Known Assignments:

• Rockford Diocese – 2001 – 02

Summary of sexual abuse allegations against Father Joseph Marcel Lessard:

In 1986, Father Joseph Marcel Lessard was admitted into treatment after being convicted of sexually abusing a 14-year-old boy. Although he was charged with two felony counts, Father Lessard’s charges were reduced to misdemeanors after Bishop O’Brien requested for leniency. Father Lessard was sentenced to three years probation and a $100 fine. He continued to work as a priest, including time as a hospital chaplain in the Rockford Diocese. In 2001, he was permanently removed from the ministry.

The Phoenix diocese settled a civil alleging abuse by Lessard in 2006 for $50,000. Father Lessard was ordained in 1980.

If you have information about Father Joseph Marcel Lessard or if you are considering a case against Father Joseph Marcel Lessard or the Phoenix Diocese, please contact Andreozzi + Foote at 866-694-2307 or email us today. We have been protecting the rights of sexual abuse survivors for years and offer free consultations. We handle cases against abusive priests, clergy, nuns, religious leaders, and the Phoenix Diocese. The time to purse a case against Father Joseph Marcel Lessard or the Phoenix Diocese may be limited, so it is important to consult with us quickly to understand and preserve your legal options.