SAN DIEGO (CA)
San Luis Obispo Tribune
Associated Press
SAN DIEGO - A former Roman Catholic priest claims church officials shuttled him to new parishes after he was accused of molesting children in the 1970s, according to a newly filed court document.
The declaration by Edward Anthony Rodrigue supports allegations that bishops knew priests were molesting children but covered up the crimes by shifting accused clergy elsewhere. Rodrigue has been convicted of molestation twice and is serving a 10-year term at Corcoran state prison.
"There is overwhelming evidence that the church was well aware of the sexual misconduct of these priests," said Raymond P. Boucher, lead attorney for hundreds of people who are suing the church.
J. Michael Hennigan, the attorney for the San Diego diocese, said it's difficult to evaluate old claims.
"We're not contending that it's impossible," Hennigan said. "Do I have to take the word of a convicted felon?"