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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 - William Tanguay - Levy Konigsberg

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FATHER WILLIAM TANGUAY SEXUAL ABUSE INVESTIGATION

LK Investigating Sex Crime Cases Involving Father William Tanguay

Father William Tanguay, a Catholic priest, allegedly solicited four teenagers and a young man for sex between 1965 and 1987 in the Diocese of Providence, Rhode Island. 

Levy Konigsberg is investigating claims that Father William Tanguay sexually abused minors while serving as a Catholic priest in Rhode Island.

Father William Tanguay was ordained in 1969 and served in the Diocese of Providence, Rhode Island, as well as in the Archdiocese of Minneapolis–St. Paul and the Diocese of Charlotte. He was involved in ministry with the Hmong community. Tanguay was suspended in 2000, briefly returned to active ministry following a psychiatric evaluation, and was placed on leave of absence in 2002 after more allegations were reported. He is included on the Diocese of Providence’s list of credibly accused clergy. 

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

Were you sexually abused?

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Father William Tanguay History of Sexual Abuse

The alleged abuse involved oral sex, physical abuse, drugs, and alcohol. 

He admitted to having sex with a young man in his rectory in the 1970s.

The Diocese did not refer any allegations against Tanguay to law enforcement.

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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