Anthony O'Connell

O'Connell was appointed by Pope John Paul II as the first bishop of the newly created Diocese of Knoxville on June 7, 1988.

On November 12, 1998, John Paul II appointed O'Connell as the third Bishop of the Diocese of Palm Beach,[1][3] replacing J. Keith Symons, who resigned after admitting he molested five boys early in his priesthood.

[1][3] After his resignation, O'Connell moved to Mepkin Abbey in Moncks Corner, South Carolina, to live a life of penance and prayer under supervision.

After reporting the abuse in 1995, the Diocese of Jefferson City gave him a $125,000 settlement on condition that he sign a non-disclosure agreement.

Doe" and "Alexander," stepped forward to make allegations in regard to O'Connell's actions against students in his charge.