Victim Gets Threatening Letters

SNAP
May 15, 2014

http://www.snapnetwork.org/mn_victim_gets_threatening_letters

Statement by David Clohessy of St. Louis, Director of SNAP, the Survivors Network of those Abused by Priests (314 566 9790, SNAPclohessy@aol.com)

The woman who “outed” a Twin Cities predator priest is getting threatening letters and prosecutors suspect the cleric is behind them.

[twincities.com]

Prosecutors are seeking DNA from Fr. Mark Huberty of Maplewood who is charged with fourth- and fifth-degree criminal sexual conduct.

We hope a judge grants their request. And we hope that Archbishop John Nienstedt harshly denounces this intimidation right now - no matter who is responsible for it. It is his duty to help foster a climate that welcomes, not discourages, abuse reports.

We applaud the prosecutors for seeking DNA samples from Fr. Huberty. And we applaud this brave woman who is persisting in her effort for prevention and justice, despite such awful tactics.

Our hearts break for her. She has to be re-victimized by such emotionally violent reactions to stepping forward and bravely speaking up. We know all too well the damage and pain that is caused when an accused priest receives support because they are “innocent until proven guilty” which somehow leaves the victim “a liar until proven abused.”

We applaud her courage. And we hope her actions will inspire others who were hurt- by Fr. Huberty or other clerics - to step forward and protect future women from being sexually abused. We hope it will also inspire law enforcement officials to investigate and prosecute anyone who tries to interfere with clergy sex cases.