Father James Fletcher

Father James Patrick Fletcher (also known as Father Jim and Father Fletcher) was an ordained priest that served within the Catholic Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle.  He was found guilty of offences of child sexual abuse, and died in 2006 in jail.  Father James Fletcher had been the priest in charge at St John’s Cathedral, Maitland around 1978 and St Mary’s Church, Dungog around 1988 – 1995. Also, abuses occurred in his Presbytery (Parish house) around 1986 and 1987.

He was also the master of Ceremonies for Bishop Leo Clarke of the Maitland-Newcastle diocese.

Complainants of sexual abuse by Father Jim included altar boys who described “grooming” behaviour by Father Fletcher.

There was reported knowledge by another priest at the time, Philip Wilson, whom he lived with while they were serving the Maitland-Newcastle Diocese. Philip Wilson went on to become the Archbishop of Adelaide from 2001 to 2018.

Moody Law has acted for survivors of sexual abuse in claims against the Catholic Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle. We invite former victims of child sexual abuse by Father James Fletcher to contact us to tell us confidentially what information they may have, and we will explain what options are available to help with these cases.

Call us or complete the confidential enquiry form below.