William Murphy is the highest - ranking priest to be charged with child abuse . If convicted , he faces up to 20 years in prison . Lynn 's defense team argues that the monsignor repeatedly sent word of child sex abuse up the chain of command . Also on trial is the Rev . James Brennan , who is accused of the attempted rape of a 14-year - old .
William Murphy is the highest - ranking priest to be charged with child abuse . If convicted , he faces up to 20 years in prison . Also on trial is the Rev . James Brennan , who is accused of the attempted rape of a 14-year - old .