Judge Recommends Dismissal of Narragansett Man's Chiming Church Bell Lawsuit

A Narragansett man must find a way to clearly articulate his claims that church bells in his neighborhood have caused him years of frustration and hardship, a judge has ordered.

According to the Providence Journal, in July, John Devaney filed a federal lawsuit against the state, the town, Pope Francis and the Roman Catholic Church, stating the chimes of St. Thomas More Catholic Parish on Narragansett Pier were interrupting his peace at home across the street, as were the chimes from St. Peters by-the-Sea Episcopal Church nearby.

Devaney’s claim also states that the estimated 36,000 “claps” and “gongs” heard at his home each year played a significant role in his failed marriage, and continue to interrupt his thoughts, dreams and other family relationships.

Devaney's lawsuit named a number of defendants, including Attorney General Peter F. Kilmartin, Diocese of Providence Bishop Thomas J. Tobin and Pope Francis among others. Lawyers for defendants have asked the court to dismiss the lawsuit, arguing that Devaney failed to present a federal question in his filings.

A 2012 complaint to the Town of Narragansett by Devaney accused the church of breaking noise ordinance laws, however town officials ruled it exempt from the law being a place of worship.

ProJo went on to report that U.S. Magistrate Judge Patricia A. Sullivan told John Devaney Wednesday that she plans to recommend the dismissal of his lawsuit without prejudice. In addition, she strongly advised him to seek legal advice if he chooses to revise his complaint.

Click here to read more at providencejournal.com.