ALBANY (NY)
Capital News 9
Updated: 8/16/2005 10:32 PM
By: Capital News 9 web staff
Thirteen priests removed from ministry after allegations of sexual abuse are still receiving pension and healthcare -- courtesy of the Albany Roman Catholic Diocese.
The Diocese stands by its decision, and points out that Bishop Howard Hubbard hasn't waivered from his Zero Tolerance policy in clergy abuse cases.
A statement released by the Diocese said "Formal and public removal from ministry is sufficient punishment for the priest and adequate protection for the community."
Critics, including a local attorney who represents dozens of alleged victims of clergy sex abuse, said not enough is being done.
Attorney John Aretakis said, "If these men were in any other industry in the country, and had sex with children, on the job, I'm sure they would not only be terminated, but lose their pensions, their fringes, and any other benefits they accrued."