Diocesan Review Board

The Diocese of Knoxville review board functions as a confidential consultative body to the bishop. The majority of its members are laypersons not in the employ of the Diocese of Knoxville (members include law enforcement professionals, a medical doctor, and a clinical psychologist). The board is to advise the diocesan bishop in his assessment of any allegations of sexual abuse of minors and in his determination of a cleric’s suitability for ministry. The Diocesan Review Board regularly reviews diocesan policies and procedures for dealing with sexual abuse of minors. The Diocesan Review Board meets as a body at least once per year.

Diocesan Review Board Members

Carleton (Butch) Bryant, Chairman
Law Enforcement/Legal Professional

Dr. Jean Daniels, PhD
LPC & LMFT, Tennessee Licensed Professional Counselor and a Marital and Family Therapist with clinical training in treating sexual abuse

Dr. Gail Marie Walter, MD
Family Medicine

Dr. Steve Chardos, PhD
Clinical Psychologist

Marla Lenihan, Victim Assistance Coordinator
Licensed Professional Counselor

Christopher J. Manning
Retired Detective/Police Lieutenant

Ward Phillips
Attorney at Law

Father Peter Iorio
Pastor

Father Doug Owens
Pastor

Most Reverend Richard F. Stika
Bishop of Knoxville

Diocese of Knoxville procedure for reporting sexual abuse:

Anyone who has actual knowledge of or who has reasonable cause to suspect an incident of sexual abuse should report such information to the appropriate civil authorities first, and also the diocesan Victim Assistance Coordinator, Marla Lenihan, 865-482-1388.