Were You Abused at Maryville Academy?
You may have legal options.
Des Plaines, Illinois • Operated by Catholic Charities
5
Documented Incidents
4
Lawsuits Filed
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What Happened at Maryville Academy
Maryville Academy, a residential treatment facility in Des Plaines, Illinois, has faced multiple serious allegations of sexual abuse spanning several decades. The facility, operated by a private entity, has been the subject of at least four documented lawsuits involving sexual misconduct by clergy members. Notable cases include allegations against Rev. John Smyth, Rev. David Ryan in 1995, and the federal case Dockery v. Maryville Academy filed in 2016. The pattern of allegations extends back to 1995, when multiple sexual abuse claims emerged against priests associated with the facility. The documented incidents prompted official scrutiny, including a 2009 investigation by the Illinois Guardianship and Advocacy Commission. Despite the filing of four lawsuits related to these abuse allegations, records indicate no settlements have been publicly documented, raising questions about accountability and resolution for alleged victims. The repeated nature of these allegations over multiple years suggests systemic issues within the facility's oversight and protection of vulnerable residents in its care. If you or someone you know was affected by abuse at Maryville Academy or any residential treatment facility, consider consulting with an attorney who specializes in institutional abuse cases to understand your legal options and rights.
- Location
- Des Plaines, Illinois 60016
- Facility Type
- private residential treatment
- Status
- active
Documented Incidents & Lawsuits
The following have been documented through news reports, court filings, and official investigations.
Sexual Abuse Lawsuit Against Rev. John Smyth
A lawsuit was filed against the late Rev. John Smyth, the long-time leader of Maryville Academy. The lawsuit charged Smyth with sexually abusing children at the facility.
Dockery v. Maryville Academy Federal Case
A federal lawsuit case filed in the Northern District of Illinois in 2016. The case involved allegations against Maryville Academy and proceeded through federal court.
Source: Justia →Illinois Guardianship and Advocacy Commission Investigation
The Illinois Guardianship and Advocacy Commission completed an investigation concerning Maryville Academy. The investigation examined services provided within the residential facility.
Source: Illinois Guardianship and Advocacy Commission →Multiple Sexual Abuse Allegations Against Maryville Academy Priests
At least 30 people have come forward accusing priests at Maryville Academy of sexual abuse. Nearly two dozen more survivors are alleging they were sexually abused as children approximately 30 years ago while at the facility.
Source: Chicago Sun-Times →Rev. David Ryan Sexual Abuse Allegation
A priest from Lake Zurich was placed on leave for the third time after another allegation arose. The allegation claims that Rev. David Ryan sexually abused a minor in the mid-1990s during his years on staff at Maryville Academy.
Source: Bishop Accountability →Your Legal Rights in Illinois
Statute of Limitations
20 years from age 18
No Upfront Costs
Attorneys work on contingency - you pay nothing unless you win.
You May Be Entitled To
Compensation for pain & suffering, medical expenses, therapy costs, lost wages, and more.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Location
Des Plaines, Illinois 60016Open in Google Maps →
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Nearby Facilities
- Streamwood Behavioral HealthStreamwood, IL•15 mi•4 incidents
- DuPage County Juvenile Detention CenterWheaton, IL•16.7 mi
- Lawrence Hall Youth ServicesChicago, IL•17.7 mi•3 incidents
- Illinois Youth Center ChicagoChicago, IL•17.7 mi
- Cook County Juvenile Temporary Detention CenterChicago, IL•17.7 mi
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If you or a loved one experienced abuse at Maryville Academy, you may be entitled to significant compensation. Contact us for a free, confidential case evaluation.
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