YAKIMA (WA)
KNDO
A support group for victims sexually abused by their priests hopes to start a chapter in Yakima. "SNAP", Survivors Network of Those Abused by Priests hopes to gather enough support from other victims who have not come out with their story.
A former Yakima woman, Rose Lamey, filed a lawsuit February 1, against the Diocese of Yakima alleging sexual abuse by her priest, "This has destroyed our Catholic faith and our childhood innocence. I have reached out to the Bishop to learn the truth and find healing and closure and have been very disappointed."
Since Lamey filed her lawsuit, others have come forward alleging abuse by the same priest.
Lamey says she and her sister, Mary Smith, were both abused by Father Michael Simpson at Saint Aloysius Church in Toppenish. Simpson is now deceased. Smith says although the abuse occurred nearly forty years ago it still haunts them, "Even with all of the support we've had this has turned our lives upside down. But to know there are people who understand is so gratifying."