Gerard Joseph “Jerry” Howell, a Catholic priest from New Orleans accused of extensively abusing children within the local deaf community, has died at the age of 87. The Archdiocese was aware of the allegations against him for at least four decades but failed to take meaningful action against him prior to his death.
Howell was discovered deceased around 5 p.m. on September 8 at his apartment in a senior living community in Texas. Austin police officers responded to the scene following a welfare check request for the block where he resided.
In a statement regarding the incident, the police department confirmed that first responders were dispatched to investigate reports that an 87-year-old individual had suffered a fall. While the initial statement did not explicitly name Howell, it was provided in direct response to inquiries concerning his specific death.
The deaf community deserves better protection. How did this go on for so long unchallenged?
Tragic that he escapes legal accountability. His death won’t bring peace to the victims or their families.
I had no idea the Archdiocese was aware for four decades. This negligence is horrifying.
Is there any justice left for the survivors if he dies without facing trial? It feels unjust.
Forty years of silence is a devastating indictment. The institution failed these children repeatedly.