The university is aware of recent news reports about the sentencing of Stephen Sauer, a former Jesuit who pleaded guilty to sexual battery and various other charges filed in Louisiana. As LMU shared previously in a January 2022 community update, Sauer served at the university from August 2006 to June 2009 as a theological studies faculty member, and from September 2016 to February 2017 as a part-time LMU Extension instructor. LMU has no record of allegations of misconduct against Sauer during his time at the university.
LMU does not tolerate sexual misconduct and supports holding accountable abusers and those who protect them. The university also stands with those who may be affected by news reports about Sauer. LMU CARES, Community of Care, and the Employee Assistance Program provide resources and support for survivors of sexual misconduct. LMU encourages students, faculty, staff, and alumni to report any incident of sexual misconduct to the university and law enforcement. If you or someone you know has been abused by a Jesuit, please contact Jesuits West Advocacy Coordinator Griselda Cervantez at 408.893.8398 or gcervantez@jesuits.org, and appropriate law enforcement agencies.
