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Last updated on July 2026

WERE YOU SEXUALLY ABUSED BY A PRIEST OR CHURCH MEMBER IN RHODE ISLAND?

You May Be Entitled To Substantial CompensationSexual Abuse By Clergy: Rhode Island - Fr. Peter Barnes - Levy Konigsberg

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BROTHER PETER BARNES SEXUAL ABUSE LAWSUITS

LK Investigating Sex Crime Cases Involving Brother Peter Barnes

Brother Robert “Peter” Barnes, a De La Salle Christian Brother, allegedly abused two minors in Rhode Island during the 1950s and 1960s at St. Raphael’s Academy.

Levy Konigsberg is investigating claims that Brother Peter Barnes sexually abused minors while serving as a Christian Brother in Rhode Island.

Brother Peter Barnes, also known as Robert W. Barnes, was a member of the De La Salle Christian Brothers for approximately thirty years before being incardinated as a priest of the Diocese of Norwich in Connecticut in 1980. He was assigned to St. Raphael’s Academy in Pawtucket, Rhode Island during the 1950s. He died in 2008. He is included on the Diocese of Norwich’s list of clergy credibly accused of sexual abuse of a minor.

If you or a loved one was harmed, contact us today.

Were you sexually abused?

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Brother Peter Barnes History of Sexual Abuse

In 2002, a woman reported to the Diocese of Providence that Barnes allegedly raped her in her home in East Providence in 1963, when she was 17 years old. One of her sisters alleged witnessing the assault. 

In April 2019, a second victim reported that Barnes allegedly sexually assaulted him when he was 10 years old in the 1950s. Barnes allegedly fondled his genitals and masturbated him.

We specialize in sexual abuse lawsuits against powerful institutions. These include  government entities (such as prisons, schools, and juvenile detention  /  juvenile treatment centers), technology companies, and clergy.

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We work on contingency, which means there’s no cost to hire and no fee unless we win.

Who Can You Sue in a Sex Abuse Civil Case?

In a sex abuse civil case, the parties you might sue can vary depending on the circumstances of the abuse and the relationships involved.

Some potential parties that could be sued in a sex abuse civil case include:

  • Individual Perpetrator: The alleged perpetrator of the sexual abuse can be named as a defendant in the lawsuit. This is often the person who directly committed the abusive acts.
  • Institutions and Organizations: If the abuse occurred within an institution or organization, such as a school, church, sports club, or workplace, and they failed to take appropriate action to prevent or address the abuse, they might also be held liable.
  • Employers: If the perpetrator was an employee of an organization or institution, the employer might be held vicariously liable for the actions of their employee if the abuse occurred within the scope of their employment.
  • Property Owners: If the abuse occurred on a property owned by someone else, and the property owner failed to provide adequate security or take reasonable steps to prevent the abuse, they might be considered liable.
  • Government Entities: In some cases, government entities might be involved, especially if the abuse occurred within a state institution or facility. Suing a government entity might involve specific procedures and limitations.

Sex abuse cases can be legally complex, so it's highly advisable to consult with experienced legal professionals who specialize in this area to understand your options and pursue the appropriate legal action. Levy Konigsberg, along with our team of sexual abuse lawyers, is available to provide assistance for your sexual abuse case.

Do I Have A Case?

You may have a sexual abuse claim against the Catholic Church if:

  • You were sexually abused as a minor or an adult within the Church.
  • The abuser was a priest, clergy member, or some other Church volunteer or employee.
  • Your abuse occurred at any time in the past.

    As with civil sexual abuse cases, claims filed with the bankruptcy settlement fund are separate from any criminal proceedings that may arise from abuse. Instead, they focus on holding the Archdiocese liable for damages. This means you may still have a claim even if:

    • Your abuser is no longer alive.
    • Your abuser was never charged or convicted of a crime.

    Determining whether you have grounds to pursue a claim can be challenging, which is why our team at Levy Konigsberg is readily available to help.

    Recoverable Damages in Sexual Abuse Claims

    In addition to providing accountability and a sense of justice, civil sex abuse lawsuits allow survivors to recover financial compensation for their damages, which may include:

    • Past medical and mental health expenses
    • Future mental health expenses, including therapy, medications, etc.
    • Pain and suffering
    • Emotional anguish and psychological harm
    • Lost income
    • Other economic and non-economic damages

    Rhode Island Sexual Abuse Attorneys

    On June 11, 2026, Rhode Island enacted a law opening a revival window for survivors of childhood sexual abuse to file civil claims, no matter how long ago the abuse occurred. Under this new law, survivors have until June 30, 2028 to file claims.

      If you or someone you know has been a victim of sexual abuse by Rhode Island clergy or at a Rhode Island Catholic school or Rhode Island school, our compassionate and experienced Rhode Island sexual abuse legal team is here to stand by your side and pursue the justice and accountability you deserve.

      Levy Konigsberg is actively investigating allegations of sexual abuse perpetrated by clergy members. Our team is dedicated to providing legal support to survivors and holding accountable those who have committed these crimes. We are working tirelessly to ensure that survivors have access to justice and that the trust placed in religious institutions is restored.

      Trust Levy Konigsberg's Legal Team for Proven Results in Sexual Abuse and Negligence Cases

      Levy Konigsberg LLP, a nationally recognized law firm, has built a legacy over three decades, recovering over $3 billion in sexual abuse compensation for clients. Led by award-winning sexual abuse lawyers, we specialize in representing survivors in sexual abuse across the country, taking on powerful institutions. Our top-rated trial practice handles all types of sexual abuse or negligence cases, showcasing numerous testimonials and successful case results. You can learn more about our latest sexual abuse work on our blog.

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