Sex Abuse Advocates Rededicate NJ Monument

The Phillyburbs
April 29, 2013

http://www.phillyburbs.com/news/state/nj/sex-abuse-advocates-rededicate-nj-monument/article_8203a6fe-bc70-54a3-9183-d3c19def595c.html



Advocates for victims of childhood sexual abuse have gathered to rededicate a monument in northern New Jersey that has been a target of vandalism.

Part of the millstone monument near St. Joseph Church in Mendham was destroyed last month for the second time in less than two years. But several survivors and family members rededicated the monument during a ceremony Sunday.

The original monument was dedicated in 2004, near the rectory that was home to a priest who was defrocked and admitted molesting about a dozen children at St. Joseph and other parishes.

In November 2011, police charged a 38-year-old man with using a sledgehammer to destroy the monument. It was rebuilt and dedicated last April.

Police are seeking help in identifying whoever was responsible for last month's vandalism.