Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Alabama Priest Laicized Amid Sexual Abuse Allegations

11/29/2025

44 9

Summary

Story summary

Robert Sullivan, a priest in Alabama, was laicized after Heather Jones alleged he paid her to stay silent about sexual relations beginning when she was 17.
Jones, now 33, described experiences in a statement to the Birmingham diocese and in an interview with the Guardian.
Bishop Steven Raica announced laicization after an investigation found no diocesan funds linked to the payments, and the diocese sent the allegations to the Vatican.

1 of 1

Story summary

Robert Sullivan, a priest in Alabama, was laicized after Heather Jones alleged he paid her to stay silent about sexual relations beginning when she was 17.
Jones, now 33, described experiences in a statement to the Birmingham diocese and in an interview with the Guardian.
Bishop Steven Raica announced laicization after an investigation found no diocesan funds linked to the payments, and the diocese sent the allegations to the Vatican.