6 News has reported that the Midwest Province of the Society of Jesus informed Creighton Prep that they have suspended Fr. Jim Sinnerud from public ministry pending an investigation related to an allegation of sexual misconduct received this week.
The alleged misconduct took place at a previous assignment before his arrival at Prep. There are no known allegations of abuse during Fr. Sinnerud’s tenure at Prep from 1987 to 2004. Sinnerud is a retired teacher who has also assisted with coaching. His recent school duties were performing priestly ministry and supervising the gym during lunch periods.
Upon being informed of the allegations, Fr. Sinnerud was immediately removed from any duties at Creighton Prep and now no longer resides in Omaha.
“I would like to express my deepest apologies, regret and sorrow to all the victims and their families who were harmed by members of the Society of Jesus,” said Creighton Prep President Fr. Tom Neitzke, SJ. He added, “Anyone who has been abused by a Jesuit of the Midwest Province should contact the appropriate law enforcement or child protection agency, no matter what amount of time has passed since the abuse.”
Fr. Neitzke also emphasized, “It is our absolute first priority to ensure the security and wellbeing of our students, faculty and staff.”