
Foul Play: A Historical True Crime Podcast — Series 2
Baltimore: Sister Cathy and the 1975 Abuse Report
February 20, 201928mEpisode 22
Show Notes
Baltimore's dark secret resurfaces... In this gripping episode of Foul Play, we navigate the chilling discovery of an abuse report tied to Sister Cathy and the 1975 scandal revolving around Father Joseph Maskell within Baltimore's shadowy church circles. As part of Season 2, this episode pulls back the curtain on secrets long buried within the Archdiocese of Baltimore.
Sister Cathy Cesnik was much more than a nun; she was an inspiring educator and a beloved community figure whose influence touched many young lives. Before her untimely death, she was known for her dedication to teaching and caring for her students, illustrating a life filled with compassion and courage.
Sister Cathy's murder matters deeply, not just due to her personal loss but also because it draws attention to systemic abuse and cover-ups within powerful institutions. The 1975 abuse report was a crucial turning point in understanding how deeply disgraced figures like Father Maskell operated within the church, shielded from scrutiny.
The episode highlights key details uncovered from emerging documents showing how the abuse reports were handled. Father Maskell stood accused of heinous activities through first-hand accounts, but efforts to bring him to justice highlighted the challenges victims faced in a society that often obscured the truth.
This period in Baltimore was one marked by turmoil, where trust in religious leadership was paradoxically high and fragile. Social norms dictated strict adherence to authority, making the protection of reputations a priority over accountability and justice, especially during the 1970s.
Listeners will follow a detailed unpacking of the investigation, featuring interviews with those who dared to speak out and survived years of neglect and intimidation. Expect a narrative journey through the corridors of power and conspiracy, illuminating unspeakable truths that challenge institutional silence.
---
Support Foul Play:
Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/foulplaypodcast
Website: https://www.mythsandmalice.com/show/foul-play/
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/foul-play-crime-series/id1525832703
Follow us:
Instagram: @foulplaycrimeseries
Twitter: @foulplaypod
Our Sponsors:
* Check out BetterHelp: https://www.betterhelp.com
Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/foulplay/donations
Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
Our Sponsors:
* Check out BetterHelp: https://www.betterhelp.com
Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/foulplay/donations
Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
Credits
Shane Waters — Founder & Host
Wendy Cee — Co-Host
Produced by Myths & Malice