SNAP Calls for Grand Jury Investigation into Ratigan Sex Abuse Case, by Kathy Quinn, FOX 4, June 17, 2011

SNAP Calls for Grand Jury Investigation into Ratigan Sex Abuse Case

By Kathy Quinn
FOX 4
June 17, 2011

http://www.fox4kc.com/news/wdaf-snap-calls-for-grand-jury-investigation-into-ratigan-sex-abuse-case-20110617,0,7342544.story

JACKSON COUNTY, MO—

Catholic Bishops have voted to approve their national policy to prevent abuse by priests.

SNAP, the Survivor's Network for Those Abused by Priests, announced on Friday that they want prosecutors to launch a grand jury investigation into allegations of sexual abuse.

Since March when SNAP asked the Jackson County prosecutor for a grand jury investigation into allegations of abuse, a lot has happened. The prosecutor has been replaced and two local priests have been removed from their parishes, including Father Shawn Ratigan who faces charges for child porn.

On Friday, David Clohessy, executive director of SNAP, said they asked three county prosecutors, including Jackson County, for a grand jury investigation into the Ratigan case. Ratigan was in court on Thursday facing charges of child porn. He has plead not guilty.

SNAP also asked prosecutors in Buchanan and Clay counties to investigate Ratigan because he worked in all three counties. SNAP believes if there were criminal investigations in those counties there would be more charges.

SNAP also wants to let the supporters of Bishop Finn know by holding public rallies, it may intimidate young victims from coming forward. Supporters of Bishop Robert Finn are holding a parade and rally on Saturday called a "Public Prayer Procession and Rosary Rally."