A Catholic clergyman, Robert Sullivan, 61, is currently under scrutiny for allegedly initiating and maintaining a relationship with a 17-year-old exotic dancer, Heather Jones, now 33, and purportedly paying her a substantial sum to remain silent about their relationship. Sullivan, who served as the pastor of Our Lady of Sorrows Church in Homewood, Alabama, has taken a leave of absence following the public accusations.
Jones, who first encountered Sullivan at a strip club he frequented, claimed in a letter to the Diocese of Birmingham that the priest offered her $273,000 to sign a non-disclosure agreement. This agreement, she alleges, was for an ongoing relationship that would include financial support in exchange for private companionship, which she says involved sexual relations.
Raised in foster care due to her mother’s severe neglect, Jones was initially hesitant but ultimately agreed to Sullivan’s proposition due to his persistence and her vulnerable state of mind. Shortly after, she received two wire transfers of $136,500 each from an attorney’s office, she alleges.
Sullivan, who initially introduced himself as a doctor, is said to have taken Jones on outings, including shopping, dining, and staying at hotels in at least six different Alabama cities. This relationship, according to Jones, lasted until this year. The priest allegedly bought her a phone and even paid for her rehabilitation as she battled addiction and depression.
Jones claims that between July 18, 2024, and March of this year, a Venmo account under her name received nearly $120,000. She felt compelled to make the allegations public due to Sullivan’s close work with families and their children at his church, fearing others may be vulnerable to similar manipulation and exploitation.
Sullivan, who has served as a priest for over 32 years and was formerly the president of John Carroll High School for six years, announced on Aug. 2 that he was taking personal leave as pastor. Bishop Steven Raica, head of the Catholic Diocese of Birmingham, addressed the allegations in a letter to the diocese, stating that there is insufficient evidence for a criminal investigation into Sullivan’s conduct.
However, the diocese has initiated its own investigation, according to Church law and diocesan policies and guidelines. The diocesan Victim Assistance Coordinator has been in contact with Jones and has provided appropriate support. The allegations are being reported to the Vatican, the bishop confirmed.