Profile Facts
- Name
- Peter J. Van der Linden
- Role
- Priest
- Diocese
- Archdiocese of Detroit
- Ordained
- 1955
- Status
- Accused
- Died
- 2/7/2007
- Records
- Diocesan and public records
This page collects the publicly reported information on Father Peter J. Van der Linden, a priest of the Archdiocese of Detroit accused of sexual misconduct with a minor. As clergy sexual abuse lawyers, we maintain these profiles so Michigan survivors can access verified facts in a single location.
Van der Linden was removed from ministry in the 1990s, yet later worked part-time at a Catholic high school. If you crossed paths with him during those years, a confidential conversation with our firm can help you understand whether you have a claim.
Sexual Abuse in the Archdiocese of Detroit
Michigan’s Catholic Church is organized into seven dioceses: the Archdiocese of Detroit and the dioceses of Lansing, Grand Rapids, Saginaw, Gaylord, Marquette, and Kalamazoo. In 2018, the Michigan Attorney General began investigating clergy sexual abuse across all of them, a review that continues to bring long-buried reports to light.
The findings have been sobering, but they have also given survivors documentation that can support civil claims. Speaking with a Michigan clergy sexual abuse lawyer is the best way to learn how those findings might apply to your situation.
The Allegations Against Father Peter J. Van der Linden
A Public Naming in 2002
According to published records, the Archdiocese of Detroit publicly named Father Van der Linden as accused in a press release in October 2002. He had been removed from ministry in 1993 following what the archdiocese described as a serious and substantive allegation of sexual misconduct dating back to the early years of his ministry.
Part-Time School Work After Removal
Van der Linden had been on medical leave since 1991, but in 1993 he began working part-time at Cardinal Mooney High School in Marine City. He was permanently removed from ministry in May 2005 and died on February 7, 2007.
Criminal vs. Civil Sexual Abuse Cases
Criminal charges can no longer be brought against Father Van der Linden, who died in 2007. His death ended any possibility of prosecution, but survivors retain a separate set of rights in civil court.
Civil lawsuits focus on compensation and accountability rather than punishment. A survivor may sue the priest’s estate, the parish, or the archdiocese, especially when officials placed a known risk back into contact with young people.
Statute of Limitations on Clergy Sexual Abuse Cases in Michigan
Michigan’s civil deadline for sexual abuse claims is set by Michigan Legislature §600.5805: generally ten years from the abuse or until the survivor’s 28th birthday, whichever is later. Criminal charges for first-degree sexual conduct have no deadline at all.
Because trauma often buries these memories for years, the law’s structure matters enormously. Do not assume too much time has passed until an experienced attorney has reviewed your specific timeline.
View All Accused Clergy in Michigan
Pursue Justice With Help From White Law PLLC
Call White Law PLLC at (517) 316-1195 for a free and confidential case review. Our office is located at, and we serve survivors statewide.
Taking the first step is often the hardest part. We will listen without judgment and give you an honest assessment of your legal options.
Profiles summarize published records and allegations. Inclusion does not constitute a legal finding.