For years, Bishop Malone’s executive assistant was privy to all the inner workings of the bishop’s office. When his actions in private conflicted with what he showed the public, she knew she had to come forward and become a Catholic whistleblower.
Priest Abuse
Abuses in the Catholic Church have been well-documented in the media. However, systemic abuse has occurred for centuries. Old church documents repeatedly warned of priests or brothers abusing parishioners. Instead of being active in protecting the victims, the Church has a reputation of concealing the abuse and reassigning the clergy members. This isn’t just in Catholic dioceses but also in religious orders (i.e., Christian Brothers, Paulist Fathers, Franciscans, etc).
Usually, the abuse lasts for years. It can take a long time for a child victim of sexual abuse to be able to come forward and report the abuse. Because monsignors, bishops, brothers, nuns, along with priests hold positions coupling trust and faith, victims don’t always identify the abuse. Some abusers claim the inappropriate sexual contact is part of a ritual. Then the perpetrators threaten the victims into silence.
Courageous Catholic Whistleblower
When Bishop Malone from the Diocese of Buffalo released a list of 42 priests credibly accused of sexually abusing minors, the Catholic whistleblower was shocked. She knew that the list was appallingly incomplete. In fact, she saw the draft of the list, which had over 100 names. The bishop removed the names since many were still involved in the Church. He didn’t want to have to explain why a priest who is being accused of sexually abusing minors to still be an active participant in the ministry. Instead, victims began calling and asking why his or her abuser was not on the list. These people called the executive assistant.
While Malone swore he was being transparent, she knew he was lying. Two cases, in particular, stood out to her. In both instances, the priests groomed and sexually assaulted young boys. Even as allegations came from multiple victims, Malone allowed both priests to remain active. In fact, the bishop wrote several recommendation letters allowing one of the priests to minister on cruise ships and publicly lauded the other priest in advance of his upcoming retirement. Yet, Malone kept reassuring the public.
Therefore, the executive assistant decided to do something. She reached out to a local journalist. Using her leaked documents, the journalist crafted three explosive reports that led to immediate actions. For example, the county and Church had to hold one priest accountable before his retirement. Most importantly, local leaders joined the members of the diocese in demanding answers from Bishop Malone. She hopes that real action will now take place.
Get Legal Help
Survivors of sexual abuse can file civil suits against perpetrators and other responsible parties, regardless of the outcome or existence of a criminal prosecution. Civil lawsuits can help a survivor seek monetary damages. This compensation can never change the abuse suffered but can help rebuild a life.
Plus, a civil suit can deter future abuse. This is why it is important if you or a loved one was the victim of sexual abuse to contact The Michael Brady Lynch Firm. We will provide a free consultation and instruct of any avenues available to you for civil litigation.