Former Priest Marvin Knighton

Aug. 16, 2013

On July 1, 2013, the Archdiocese of Milwaukee released to the public information on clergy offenders who served in its Archdiocese. Among this release of records was a file on Marvin Knighton, who had served in the Diocese of Phoenix: www.archmil.org/reorg/bardate/ClergyOffenders/Knighton.htm

Knighton taught at St. Mary’s High School in Phoenix during the 2000-2001 academic year. The Diocese of Phoenix was not aware of any accusations of sexual abuse prior to or during his tenure at St. Mary’s.

According to the Archdiocese of Milwaukee, the first formal complaint was filed against Knighton in February 2002, after he completed his time teaching in Phoenix. The Archdiocese of Milwaukee files indicate that Knighton was laicized following their canonical investigation and trial.

During the 2000-2001 timeframe, in addition to his work at St. Mary’s High School, records indicate that Knighton assisted with weekend Masses at St. Paul Parish in Phoenix, Ascension Parish in Fountain Hills and St. Pius X in Phoenix. There have been no reported allegations or incidents of any wrongdoing at these locations.

The Diocese of Phoenix takes these matters very seriously and urges anyone who may know of any other such misconduct, or who may have any relevant information regarding Knighton, to contact local law enforcement and the Diocesan Office of Child and Youth Protection at (602) 354-2396.

Bishop Thomas J. Olmsted and the Diocese of Phoenix encourage anyone who has experienced sexual misconduct or abuse by a member of the clergy or by any employee or volunteer of the Church to make a report to local law enforcement and to contact the Diocesan Office of Child and Youth Protection.

Please keep all who were involved in these cases in your prayers for healing.