Victims Group Calls for More to Come Forward after Clergy Abuse, by Sally Phillips, WFMJ, September 16, 2011

Victims Group Calls for More to Come Forward after Clergy Abuse

By Sally Phillips
WFMJ
September 16, 2011

http://www.wfmj.com/story/15464339/victims-group-calls-for-more-to-come-forward-after-clergy-abuse

Ohio - A survivor-led support group for victims of clergy sexual abuse met outside of the Youngstown Diocese offices to ask victims to come forward.

Two representatives from the Survivors Network of those Abused by Priests, or SNAP, held up signs showing photos of abuse victims, and names of priests accused of the abuse.

Similar demonstrations are happening across the globe, just one day after victim representatives filed a criminal complaint at the Hague, asking the International Criminal Court to prosecute four high-ranking Vatican officials, including the Pope.

SNAP is asking for more victims to come forward.

"If they have knowledge, if they have been harmed, if they have any whistle blowers to please come forward, speak up," said Judy Jones, SNAP Midwest Associate Director.

The Youngstown Diocese issued a statement saying they respond to every claim brought to their attention and that they're dedicated to the welfare of their children. A Diocese official said they are unable to comment on SNAP's complaint.