Rev. David Ryan, a priest and clergy member in Chicago, is facing fresh allegations of child sexual abuse. The allegations are connected to his tenure at Maryville Academy, a church-run home for troubled youth. The Archdiocese of Chicago, Cardinal Blase J. Cupich, has acknowledged the new accusations in a letter sent to the St. Francis de Sales parish community on July 29, 2025, continuing a series of updates on the priest’s troubled history.
This latest letter marks the third time since 2020 that Cardinal Cupich has addressed allegations against Ryan.
Allegations of Abuse at Maryville Academy
About 30 individuals have alleged sexual abuse at the Maryville Academy in Cook County. The new accusations stem from a civil complaint specifically involving Ryan abusing a child during his time at Maryville in the mid-1990s.
In a June deposition, Ryan was questioned about his involvement at the academy, prompting concerns about the environment at Maryville during his years on staff. The allegations, if substantiated, would add to the growing list of abuse claims that have plagued the academy. The civil lawsuit is part of an ongoing effort to hold the archdiocese accountable for its role in enabling abuse at Maryville and other institutions over the years.
Many of the allegations against Maryville Academy accuse Rev. John P. Smyth, now deceased, of sexual abuse. Smyth served in various leadership roles at Maryville, and Ryan was Smyth’s co-director in the 1990s. Smyth left the institution in 2004 and died in 2019.
Ryan’s History of Allegations and Legal Action
Rev. Ryan was first placed on leave in 2020 after accusations surfaced that he abused a minor while working at Maryville Academy. He was reinstated in 2021, only for the archdiocese to later announce additional, previously undisclosed information, leading to another delay in his return.
In February 2023, Ryan was again reinstated, with Cardinal Cupich emphasizing the archdiocese’s commitment to restoring Ryan’s reputation. However, with this new allegation and ongoing legal action, the calls for further scrutiny have only intensified.
Helping Survivors Seek Justice
If you or a loved one has been impacted by clergy sexual abuse or sexual abuse in any other setting, it’s important to know your rights and the legal options available. At Helping Survivors, we provide comprehensive support for individuals affected by abuse, helping them navigate the legal process and connect with trusted resources for healing. Contact Helping Survivors today to get started on the path to justice and healing.
