US Catholic Bishops’ Report Shows Clergy Sex Abuse Claims Tripled in 2019
Posted on: July 28, 2020 Catholic Church Sexual Abuse
In June 2020, the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) released the “Report on the Implementation of the Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People”. This independent audit started in 2002 and has been updated several times since then. The findings noted covers July 1, 2018 to June 30, 2019.
StoneBridge Business Partners, “Chart 1-1: Total Allegations 2015-2019”, 2019 Annual Report on the Implementation of the Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People, June 2020
The Catholic Church will say it has made strides to curb clergy abuse, but it also recognizes it has a long way to go. Francesco C. Cesareo, PH.D., the Chairman of the National Review Board for the Protection of Children and Young People, notes in the report:
“The number of allegations of sexual abuse within the Church saw a dramatic increase in the audit conducted for 2019. The overwhelming majority of these allegations were historical in nature due to the implementation of compensation programs, bankruptcies, clergy file reviews, and lawsuits. However, of the 4,434 allegations, thirty-seven involved current minors which makes clear that the sexual abuse of minors in the Church is not a thing of the past but continues to be an issue that requires the undivided attention and energy of the bishops.”
The study states 4,434 allegations were reported by 4,220 survivors throughout 194 Catholic Dioceses and Eparchies which triples the allegations reported in 2018. The study also notes that Dioceses and Eparchies which responded to a survey and reported costs related to allegations paid out $281.6 million between July 1, 2018 and June 30, 2019. This includes payments for allegations reported in previous years.
The entire report can be viewed here.
Sexual Abuse Lawyer for Clergy Abuse Victims
If you or a loved one were a victim of sexual abuse within the Roman Catholic Church, contact our firm today. Our law firm handles Clergy sexual abuse lawsuits nationwide and can help you understand how long you have to file a clergy abuse claim. Call us now at 1-800-941-7209 for a FREE and PRIVATE consultation.