Concerns in the Catholic Church, by Allison Latos, WTOV, November 20, 2007

Concerns in the Catholic Church

By Allison Latos
WTOV
November 20, 2007

http://www.wtov9.com/news/14650409/detail.html

The subject of sexual misconduct is a sensitive one to church leaders, parishioners and especially the victims; however, it's one that cannot be ignored.

NEWS9's Allison Latos uncovered there are two ongoing complaints being investigated in the Wheeling-Charleston diocese and asked Bishop Michael J. Bransfield of the Wheeling-Charleston diocese about local allegations.

According to Monsignor Fred Annie of the Office of Safe Environment, the complaints span the past two years and the diocese notified public authorities.

While NEWS9 doesn't know the severity level of the complaints, Monsignor Annie said they could range from sexual abuse, harassment to inappropriate behavior.

Annie said it may involve priests and other diocesan employees like teachers or volunteers.

Allison Latos asked, "Have any of those accusations been proven true?"

"There have in the past. In proving then true, obviously you move to a stage where there is a lawsuit. In the past there have been, but very few," said Bransfield.

Regarding legal settlements, Monsignor Annie said the diocese paid approximately $100,000 in the past five years.

Since allegations began to surface across the country, dioceses nationwide, including Wheeling-Charleston, began working to fight the issue by hiring a company called the Gavin Group to perform audits.

The group is comprised of former FBI agents who evaluate how the diocese handles complaints.

Wheeling-Charleston underwent an audit of the past year in September and passed. The diocese also takes action itself.

Bransfield said, "We immediately turn it over to the local authorities and after their investigation, we have an investigation."

The diocese has a sexual abuse review board made up of lay people like physicians, attorneys and law enforcement officers.

John Moore sits on the board. He's a local parent, coach and parishioner who takes his responsibility very seriously.

Moore said, "It is serious business protecting our children."

Moore said each time he hears of a complaint and begins to investigate, it's difficult.

"My emotions run the gamut of disappointment, surprise and inquiry because a complaint doesn't mean someone is guilty."

If they are found guilty, Bishop Bransfield said there are consequences.

"When a priest has been proven to have any sexual activity with a person under 18, they should be taken out of the ministry immediately. That's the policy of the Wheeling-Charleston Diocese. We do that," said Bransfield.

Church leaders would not release details of where in the diocese's current complaints or past convictions happened for the protection of the victims.

It's important to note that allegations of sexual misconduct are not limited to the Catholic Church. Many other religions deal with this issue as well.