We’re taking a closer look at Monsignor Robie Robichaux’s career in the Diocese of Lafayette, which included many years around children.
Monday afternoon, KATC Investigates pulled records from the Official Catholic Directory, a book listing each church parish and priest and their roles in the church.
According to the Official Catholic Directory, in 1977, Father Robie Robichaux began serving the church at St. Genevieve in Lafayette. His duties continued until he was transferred to St. Peter’s in New Iberia in 1979.
That’s the year of the alleged abuse of a then 16-year-old girl.
In the 80’s, Robichaux spent time at St. Joseph’s in Iota. He was there for two years and then Sacred Heart of Jesus congregation and St. Cecelia School in Broussard.
In 1989, Robichaux left Acadiana for graduate studies in Washington D.C.
Bishop J Douglas Deshotel said, “These allegations were first reported to the Diocese in 1994.”
One year later, Robichaux was placed on special assignment for the Office of the Tribunal in Lafayette.
Robichaux is most known for his time as Pastor at St. Mary’s Catholic Church. A position he was appointed to in 2000.
In 2004, Robichaux’s accuser coming forward again. She requested he be removed from ministry, citing “zero tolerance.” Robichaux was not removed and continued working closely with St. Mary’s Early Learning Center, catechism and religious programs for four more years.
“The priest is supposed to be light, not darkness in people’s lives,” said Deshotel.
In 2008, Robichaux transferred to St. Leo the Great serving the church and St. Leo Seton School.
That’s where the records end. The full list of Monsignor Robichaux’s history is part of our pending questions with the Diocese.
