New Orleans Priest Accused of Child Abuse Dies at 87

Gerard Joseph “Jerry” Howell, an 87-year-old Catholic priest accused of decades of child sexual abuse within the deaf community in New Orleans, died on September 8th. Howell was found deceased in his Texas apartment following a welfare check initiated by Austin police department officers. First responders were dispatched to his senior living community residence after receiving a report of an individual having fallen. The archdiocese of New Orleans was aware of allegations against Howell for at least 40 years, yet continued to support him without implementing significant consequences, according to reports. The allegations specifically concern sexual abuse of children within the deaf community, a vulnerable population. Howell had been residing in Texas at the time of his death. The Austin police department confirmed the circumstances of his death, stating that officers responded to a welfare check at the block listed for the senior living community where Howell resided. The department provided a statement regarding the incident when specifically asked about Howell’s death. The statement indicated that first responders were investigating a report of an 87-year-old individual who had fallen. The full extent of the archdiocese's knowledge and actions regarding the allegations against Howell over the four-decade period remains a significant point of concern and investigation. The case highlights a pattern of alleged institutional knowledge of abuse without sufficient protective measures for victims. Howell's death means he will not face legal proceedings related to the accusations. The New Orleans archdiocese has faced scrutiny for its handling of abuse allegations in the past. The specific details of the allegations and the timeline of the archdiocese's awareness are central to ongoing discussions about accountability and victim support within religious institutions. The incident brings to light the long-term impact of such accusations and the complexities surrounding their resolution, particularly when the accused individual dies before legal or disciplinary actions are concluded. The welfare check that led to the discovery of Howell's body was conducted by Austin police, who were responding to a report concerning an elderly resident. The statement from the police department, while not initially naming Howell, was provided in response to specific inquiries about his passing. This situation underscores the critical need for transparency and robust safeguarding protocols within religious organizations to protect vulnerable populations from abuse.