Current leadership of The Chapel is aware that a former employee, Walter "Rusty" Leveille had acted inappropriately with a minor male student in April of 1983. We understand, through first-hand accounts, that Mr. Leveille admitted to this inappropriate activity (specifics are unknown), his employment was terminated immediately by the senior pastor (James Andrews), was removed immediately and did not have ongoing access to minors, was given the ability to participate in an intensive counseling program in another State and, upon hearing that he was seeking employment in a ministry environment, The Chapel alerted the new employer to these events. In addition, we understand that the termination of his employment was publicly shared with the church by Pastor Andrews at their next gathering following his removal.
What is unknown to current leadership is whether or not law enforcement was contacted and what was done to care for any known victims of Mr. Leveille.
When the current leadership of The Chapel was informed about this situation, we began a due diligence process to understand the details surrounding Mr. Leveille's termination of employment. We were unable to find any records from that time and there was no opportunity to talk to a firsthand source of decision making as James Andrews had passed away in 1999. We were able to speak to two individuals who had direct knowledge of the situation and were able to gather the information shared above. At the time, it wasn't felt that any action was required presently as it had appeared to be handled appropriately, it was publicly known, we had not received any concerns or inquiries by an alleged victim and any criminal statute would have been exhausted by that time (nearly 40 years later).
At this stage, we stand ready to help those who can affect justice and accountability including helping law enforcement or an investigator in any way if contacted. In addition, if any alleged victims were to come forward, we would gladly offer pastoral care and support to them. Related pastoral care & support resources are available to those interested at thechapel.com/caringwell. In addition, please contact John Camardo (send a message) if you have any information that would be helpful to The Chapel in this regard.