KENTUCKY
Cincinnati Enquirer
Editorials
Victims of priest sexual abuse in the once-vast Diocese of Covington should soon be able to get compensation, some closure, perhaps even healing. The Diocese on Friday announced it reached a tentative settlement of its class-action lawsuit.
For any victims in the last 50 years who have yet to receive church compensation, the diocese agreed to create a $120 million fund, with compensation in four categories ranging from $5,000 to $450,000 per person, depending on the severity of the abuse. A special judge in Boone Circuit Court still must approve the settlement. It should also bring some closure for the diocese, although it means financial sacrifice for years to come.
The huge settlement should not compromise the diocese's essential spiritual mission, and should help steel the church's resolve against future abuse or official mishandling.
Covington's class-action suit is the nation's first such certified case. It was filed in Boone County in February 2003 for an unspecified number of victims. Bishop Roger Foys deserves special credit for pursuing settlements and meeting with victims ever since he was installed as the new Covington bishop in July 2002. Attorney Stan Chesley, lead counsel for the plaintiffs, praised Foys in their joint statement, saying this "remarkable settlement ... would not have occurred but for the good faith and honest efforts of Bishop Foys and his representatives."
Posted by kshaw at June 5, 2005 06:57 AM