Profile Facts
- Name
- Marian John Lesniak
- Role
- Priest
- Diocese
- Diocese of Lansing
- Ordained
- 1950
- Status
- Accused
- Died
- 10/9/2011
- Records
- Diocesan and public records
This profile brings together the public record on Father Marian John Lesniak, a priest of the Diocese of Lansing who was accused of sexually abusing minors. Our clergy sexual abuse lawyers publish these pages so survivors and their families can find verified information without having to dig through scattered reports.
Father Lesniak led St. Joseph’s Parish in Jackson for nearly four decades before the Diocese of Lansing placed him on its list of credibly accused clergy in 2019. If you or someone you love was harmed by him, you deserve clear answers about your legal options, and a free, confidential conversation costs you nothing.
Sexual Abuse in the Diocese of Lansing
The Diocese of Lansing is one of seven Catholic dioceses in Michigan, alongside the Archdiocese of Detroit and the dioceses of Grand Rapids, Saginaw, Gaylord, Marquette, and Kalamazoo. Each has faced scrutiny over how it handled abuse reports, and in 2018 the Michigan Attorney General opened a statewide investigation into clergy sexual abuse that has since produced detailed reports on several dioceses.
That investigation’s December 2024 report on the Diocese of Lansing documented how church leaders responded to allegations against priests like Father Lesniak. A Michigan clergy sexual abuse lawyer can explain what those findings mean for survivors who are considering a civil claim today.
The Allegations Against Father Marian John Lesniak
His Years in Jackson
Published records indicate that Father Lesniak was ordained in 1950 and served as pastor of St. Joseph’s in Jackson for 39 years. On September 27, 2019, the Diocese of Lansing publicly named him on its list of clergy credibly accused of sexual abuse of minors.
What Survivors and Witnesses Reported
According to the Michigan Attorney General’s December 2024 report on the Diocese of Lansing, concerns about Lesniak surfaced as early as 1982, when three boys told Bishop Povish they had watched Lesniak drive away from a parking lot with a girl who had crouched down on the seat or floor of his car. The boys said he dropped her off about 90 minutes later. Bishop Povish told investigators he did not believe the account.
In 2000, a woman alleged that Lesniak had sexually abused her from 1967 to 1973, beginning when she was 12 and a student at St. Joseph School. She received a $50,000 settlement that November. When she learned in 2002 that Lesniak was still in public ministry, she raised the alarm, and he was made to retire on October 2, 2002. He was prohibited from public ministry in February 2007.
The woman contacted the diocese again in early 2008, worried that Lesniak was continuing to act as a priest. Bishop Mengeling then reiterated the prohibition, ordered him to avoid St. Joseph Parish and the woman’s family, and told him not to go to Jackson. In February 2009, she reported that he was violating those conditions. Lesniak died on October 9, 2011.
Criminal vs. Civil Sexual Abuse Cases
Because Father Lesniak died in 2011, he is no longer alive for anyone to pursue criminal charges against him. That door closed with his death, but it is not the only path to accountability.
A civil lawsuit is a separate matter. Survivors may still be able to bring claims against his estate or against the diocese itself, particularly where church officials were aware of reports, should have known of the danger, or failed to protect children in their care.
Statute of Limitations on Clergy Sexual Abuse Cases in Michigan
Michigan law sets different deadlines depending on the kind of case. Under Michigan Legislature §600.5805, a civil sexual abuse claim generally must be filed within ten years or before the survivor turns 28, whichever comes later. There is no time limit for first-degree criminal sexual conduct charges.
Many survivors do not come forward for years or even decades. Trauma, shame, and suppressed memories frequently delay reporting, and courts and lawmakers have recognized that reality. Speaking with an attorney promptly is the best way to find out whether a claim can still be filed.
View All Accused Clergy in Michigan
Pursue Justice With Help From White Law PLLC
If Father Lesniak abused you or a member of your family, White Law PLLC is ready to listen. Call (517) 316-1195 for a free, confidential consultation.
You do not have to face this alone. Our attorneys represent survivors across Michigan, and we will treat your story with the seriousness and discretion it deserves.
Profiles summarize published records and allegations. Inclusion does not constitute a legal finding.