January 19, 2005

Catholic bishop endorses crackdown on child sex abuse

AUGUSTA (ME)
Foster's Daily Democrat

AUGUSTA, Maine (AP) — Maine’s Roman Catholic bishop has pledged his support for tougher laws against child sexual abuse, saying they would help the church repair damage caused by abusive priests.

"There are several (bills) that would strengthen the efforts of the state and the church to protect children," Bishop Richard Malone said Tuesday in his first policy speech to Gov. John Baldacci and legislators.

Malone cited no specific legislation, but said he is reviewing a list of bills that lawmakers have proposed but are still being drafted.

Posted by kshaw at January 19, 2005 08:55 AM