Sex abuse victims seek help to track ex-priest’s whereabouts
BOSTON — In the 1960s and ’70s, Paul Shanley was a popular street priest who counselled gay and troubled youths.
Decades later, he was convicted of raping a boy at a Newton church in the 1980s and sentenced to 12 years in prison. Shanley, now 86, is due to be released Friday, prompting a firestorm of protest from sexual abuse victims.
On Wednesday, two men who are among dozens to accuse Shanley of sexual abuse appeared at a news conference with their lawyers and victim advocates to warn the public about Shanley’s release and to ask for help in monitoring him.
John Harris said he was a 21-year-old struggling with his decision to reveal his homosexuality in 1979 when someone suggested he go see Shanley for counselling.