December 30, 2004

Six file sex abuse lawsuits against Worcester Diocese

WORCESTER (MA)
Telegram & Gazette

The Associated Press

WORCESTER, Mass.— Five people who claim they were molested by priests have filed lawsuits against the Worcester Diocese, which this month sought to dismiss or limit other sexual abuse suits.

Four men and a woman claim in the suits filed Tuesday in Worcester Superior Court that they were assaulted in the 1960s and 70s, according to their attorney, Carmen Durso.

A sixth suit filed Tuesday against the diocese claims a layperson hired by a priest assaulted a boy. All are seeking unspecified damages.

A spokesman for the diocese did not immediately return a call seeking comment.

Superior Court Judge Jeffrey A. Locke hasn't ruled yet on a diocese motion to dismiss or limit lawsuits filed by a dozen men who claimed they were molested by priests.

Posted by kshaw at December 30, 2004 07:26 AM