Statement of the Most Rev. R Daniel Conlon, Bishop of Joliet Re: the Announcement of a Settlement Involving a Sex Abuse Case

Roman Catholic Diocese of Joliet
March 12, 2013

http://www.dioceseofjoliet.org/documents/2013-03-12BishopsOffice.pdf

[DIOCESAN PRIESTS WITH A CREDIBLE ALLEGATION(S) OF SEXUAL ABUSE OF MINORS MADE AGAINST THEM WHILE SERVING IN THE JOLIET DIOCESE]

[full article]

I came to the Diocese of Joliet 19 months ago with the same excitement and optimism that any pastor has when he accepts the care of a new flock. Unfortunately the dark cloud of the history of child abuse in this diocese has imposed itself almost every day. The abuse itself and the way it was handled in many cases have created serious harm to the lives of individuals, parish communities and the whole diocese.

Although I was not present during the unfolding of this history, I feel a deep concern for the victims/survivors of abuse and their families. Their pain does not go away with the changing of bishops. I reiterate my willingness to meet with them and the diocese’s readiness to provide counseling through our Victims’ Assistance Coordinator.

This statement is provided today because the diocese’s settlement agreement with plaintiff David Rudofski regarding his allegation against Fr. James Burnett has become final. The lawsuit was filed several years ago.

The settlement terms include a statement from me acknowledging that allegations of child sexual abuse against Fr. Burnett made by Mr. Rudofski, Mr. Dan Shanahan and a man who did not want his name disclosed are considered substantiated. In addition, there is a payment of financial compensation to Mr. Rudofski.