PROVIDENCE (RI)
WPRI
PROVIDENCE, R.I. (AP) -- The Roman Catholic Diocese of Providence has settled an additional 50 sexual abuse claims, totaling $2 million, since reaching a $14.3 million settlement with about three dozen people in 2002.
The settlements have been taking place quietly and outside of court, with the diocese offering payments of $10,000 to $50,000 for those presenting valid claims, The Providence Journal reported Monday.
“It certainly, for me, is the most personally draining experience I’ve ever had in my life,” said Monsignor Paul D. Theroux, the bishop’s chief of staff. “I’ve said to some priest friends, ‘Believe me, if we could just finish it, be all over, no one would be happier than I.”