Despite pressure from sex abuse victim advocates and lawyers, the Diocese of Rockville Centre in New York has declined to release the names of credibly accused priests affiliated with the diocese.

In a statement made on April 29, the Rockville Centre Diocese went against the positions of the New York Diocese and many other dioceses in New York and around the country by refusing to release a list of credibly named abusive priests. Although the diocese has not ruled out the possibility of releasing a list in the future, at this time they have stated that doing so would be premature.

According to Sean Dolan, a spokesman for the diocese, “not a single priest or deacon of this diocese is currently in ministry who has been the subject of a credible and substantiated claim of abuse against a minor.” He additionally stated that the diocese will remain vigilant in its protection of minors, and has implemented a victims’ compensation program in order to provide relief for victims who were sexually abused as minors by members of the clergy.

Under the terms of this program, victims may be eligible to receive financial compensation if they agree not to take legal action against the diocese for the abuse. However, for victims who wish to pursue legal action, new laws in New York may allow them an easier path towards justice.

New York Catholic Sex Abuse Laws

In February 2019, New York Governor Andrew Cuomo signed a bill expanding the statute of limitations for victims of sexual abuse by Catholic priests. The Child Victims Act allows victims of sexual abuse by clergy members more rights, and provides them with additional avenues to pursue compensation and justice. It also adds more stringent reporting laws for sexual abuse.

Under New York’s new law, abuse survivors are able to bring criminal charges against their abusers until the age of 28. This expanded the previous statute of limitations by five years. Victims are now able to sue for monetary damages until age 55.

Additionally, victims whose cases have expired under the previous statute of limitations have been given a one year look back window in which they are able to file a lawsuit against their abusers. This look back window begins on Aug. 14, 2019.

Victims who may lose their eligibility once the look back window has expired are encouraged to discuss their case with a specialized lawyer and file their suits as soon as possible.

Catholic Church Name Release

In addition to the recent update to New York clergy sex abuse laws, the New York Catholic Archdiocese recently identified more than 100 priests and deacons who have been accused of sexual abuse of a minor. According to the statement released on April 26, the 120 individuals named in the list have all been credibly accused.

The release of the names comes shortly after other name releases from Connecticut, New Jersey, and Brooklyn, New York. As most of the abuse allegedly occurred between the 1950s and the 1990s, many of the credibly accused have died or left the Catholic Church.

New York’s archbishop Cardinal Timothy Dolan released a letter to members of the archdiocese asking for forgiveness for the failings of the clergy members and bishops who took advantage of the young victims. According to the letter, Dolan stated, “We must continue to be vigilant to make certain that the failings of the past are not repeated. I pledge again today that I will do all in my power to ensure the safety of our young people, and to react with sympathy, understanding, and respect towards those who come forward with an allegation of abuse.”

Compensation for Church Sexual Abuse Victims

If you or a loved one was the victim of sexual abuse by Catholic priests, you may be able to file a class action lawsuit against the Church and the individuals responsible. Other victims who have filed lawsuits have received settlements reaching tens or hundreds of thousands of dollars. Compensation funds for sexual abuse victims have also been established in New Jersey and elsewhere.

In addition to receiving compensation, many victims state that being heard and sharing their story has helped them to find peace with what has happened to them. Additionally, filing a lawsuit may be the first step towards holding the responsible parties accountable.

This article is not legal advice. It is presented
for informational purposes only.