An eight-year investigation into Catholic clergy abuse across three Massachusetts dioceses has revealed that over 270 priests sexually abused nearly 1,000 children over decades, yet no new criminal charges have been filed. Authorities cited legal barriers, including expired statutes of limitations and conduct that was not criminal at the time, as reasons for the lack of indictments. The report underscores systemic failures within the church, with prosecutors alleging institutional knowledge of the abuse. Survivors and advocates have been directed to national helplines for support, as the findings prompt renewed calls for accountability and resources for victims.
No new indictments from eight-year investigation as state attorney general says church knew about abuseMore than 270 Catholic clerics sexually abused nearly 1,000 children across three Massachusetts dioceses over several decades, according to a report released by the state’s attorney general’s office on Wednesday.The eight-year-long investigation did not result in new indictments, the office said, claiming that some conduct identified was not a crime under Massachusetts law at the time it occurred, and that in other cases the applicable statute of limitations had expired.In the US, call or text the Childhelp abuse hotline on 800-422-4453 or visit their website for more resources and to report child abuse or DM for help. For adult survivors of child abuse, help is available at ascasupport.org. In the UK, the NSPCC offers support to children on 0800 1111, and adults concerned about a child on 0808 800 5000. The National Association for People Abused in Childhood (Napac) offers support for adult survivors on 0808 801 0331. In Australia, children, young adults, parents and teachers can contact the Kids Helpline on 1800 55 1800, or Bravehearts on 1800 272 831, and adult survivors can contact Blue Knot Foundation on 1300 657 380. Other sources of help can be found at Child Helplines International Continue reading...
