PCAR commends Harrisburg diocese for finally releasing names of accused clergy
HARRISBURG, Pa. - August 1, 2018 - The Pennsylvania Coalition Against Rape commends the Roman Catholic Diocese of Harrisburg for revealing the names of those accused of child sexual abuse in the Attorney General's latest grand jury report; and wishes it would have happened sooner.
"It is in the best interest of public safety for dioceses-and all institutions-to be open and honest with members of the public when there is knowledge that sexual abuse has occurred whether that is one day ago or thirty years in the past," PCAR CEO Karen Baker said. "It is important that institutions take bold action to ensure a safe environment-one that supports survivors and does not provide cover for people who abuse their power. Help is available – both for victims of sexual abuse, and for those who choose to abuse others. We all play a role in keeping our communities safe."
The latest grand jury report-which has yet to be made public-details widespread child sexual abuse and a systematic institutional cover-up of the actions of hundreds of clergy members.
It also illustrates the need for Pennsylvania lawmakers to reform the Commonwealth's criminal and civil statutes of limitations in child sexual abuse cases. Why:
- Delayed reporting is normal and Pennsylvania law should reflect that.
- Statute of limitations reform promotes public safety by identifying people who cause harm and institutions that have neglected the safety of victims.
- When institutions are held accountable, leaders are incentivized to strengthen policies, train staff and volunteers, and to promptly report suspicions of abuse
- Evidence can be preserved for years
- Survivors of sexual abuse need time and there is no statute of limitations on their pain, suffering, and feelings of betrayal.
It is important for survivors of sexual abuse to know that regardless of when the abuse took place, they can seek help from rape crisis centers throughout the Commonwealth. Center staffs are trained and ready to assist survivors of sexual abuse. To find help close to you, visit www.pcar.org or call 1-888-772-PCAR.
ABOUT THE PENNSYLVANIA COALITION AGAINST RAPE:
Founded in 1975, PCAR works to end sexual violence and advocates for the rights and needs of sexual assault victims. PCAR partners with a network of rape crisis programs to bring help, hope and healing around issues of sexual violence in all 67 counties of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.