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GENERAL PRINCIPLE: There is a sacred relationship, which exists between the Church and its members, whether they be adult or child. Sexual abuse, sexual misconduct, sexual assault, and/or sexual exploitation, when it occurs within the context of the Church, creates a tragic reality which misrepresents the Good News to those who have been victimized. Each and every instance of sexual violation of those who are the most vulnerable among us is a matter of the gravest concern and calls for an organized Archdiocesan response that healing may occur and the safety of the community be assured.
REPORTING ABUSE: Reports of sexual abuse of a minor can be made to the Sexual Abuse Prevention and Response Services Office at 414-769-3436. Individuals are also encouraged to take their reports directly to civil authorities.
ASSISTANCE: Out of pastoral concern for the victim/survivor of sexual abuse, referrals for assistance with costs of therapy will be offered even prior to the conclusion of any formal investigation and finding of fact.
REPORTING TO AUTHORITIES: Every report of sexual abuse of a minor, regardless of when the offense occurred, will be taken seriously. When the allegation is against a person who is still alive, whether they are currently in ministry or not, all reports will be handed over to the district attorney of the county in which the offense took place. The Archdiocese commits itself to a policy of cooperation with the civil officials who are charged with handling these matters.
INVESTIGATIONS: If the civil authorities cannot proceed with criminal action for any reason and the case is returned to the Archdiocese, there will be a thorough investigation of allegations using an established process which includes an outside adjudicator. The cleric will be temporarily removed from any ministry assignment while the investigation is underway. The adjudicator will take whatever steps are needed to arrive at a finding of fact in the case. The archdiocese commits itself to full cooperation in this adjudicatory review process.
FINAL DISPOSITION: In every case, upon conviction, plea of guilty, or determination by the outside adjudication process that a cleric has sexually abused a minor, he will be permanently removed from active ministry and divested of authority to perform ministerial duties.
For more archdiocesan policies and protocols, visit this link.
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