What to know about the child abuse investigation into Catholic priests
AP News • • nation
Key Points:
- A Rhode Island Attorney General investigation found that approximately 75 priests in the Catholic Diocese of Providence abused over 300 children since 1950, with the scope likely larger than reported.
- The diocese often transferred accused priests without thorough investigations or law enforcement notification, relying heavily on treatment centers and sabbaticals instead of accountability measures.
- Only 20 priests faced criminal charges, with 14 convictions, while others were laicized; four priests have been charged recently for abuse allegations from 2020 to 2022.
- The Diocese of Providence acknowledged past leadership errors but disputed that the issues are ongoing or newly revealed, emphasizing cooperation with the investigation.
- The report recommends clearer investigative protocols, ending polygraph requirements for victims
