Priest Sexual Abuse
Victims of sexual abuse by a priest or clergy member have a right to see their perpetrators held accountable. In recent years, thousands of victims have come forward with horrific stories about the sexual abuse they suffered at the hands of trusted priests and clergy members – abuses that involved:
- Molestation
- Exhibitionism
- Voyeurism
- Pornography
- Genital penetration
In some cases, victims suffered sexual abuse by their priest for years. Though many of these victims have reached their adult years, the abuses they suffered as children and adolescents still remain with them. The effects of priest sexual abuse are far reaching, often manifesting themselves in:
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Guilt
- Fear
- Shame
Some victims of priest sexual abuse also suffer from sleep problems and sexual dysfunction; others have turned to substance abuse to numb their pain. These victims deserve closure. Even if their innocence can never be regained, they can be compensated for the pain and suffering they’ve endured.
The Church Knew about Priest Sexual Abuse
Investigations have revealed that the Catholic Church was well aware of the problem for decades. In fact, it has come to light in recent years that church officials systematically concealed evidence of priest sexual abuse; moved accused priests to other parishes; ignored or paid off victims; and failed to report allegations to the proper authorities.
For its role in the matter, the Church has made public apologies and paid hundreds of millions in compensation to victims of priest sexual abuse. More than $600 million was paid to victims by the Catholic Church in 2007 alone.
Untold Numbers: Victims of Priest Sexual Abuse
There is no way of knowing just how many people have been victimized by priests. A study by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops found that four percent of priests serving in the U.S. between 1950 and 2004 faced allegations of sexual abuse. That amounts to potentially thousands of priests having exploited the vulnerability of untold numbers of young people for their sexual gain.
If you are among the untold numbers of victims, you do not have to feel ashamed about what happened to you. You have a right to bring your perpetrator to justice and to seek compensation for the physical and emotional damages you suffered. Contact the attorneys at Burke & Eisner today for a free, confidential consultation. We represent the victims of priest sexual abuse and we’ll be glad to explain your legal options to you.
Three ways to Contact Us:
-- Fill out the Contact Us form in the Upper Right part of this page.
-- Use the Contact Us form located on the Instant Answer Page
-- Call us: 1-800-838-0800
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