Carlson Releases Statement about Deposition

By Brandie Piper
KSDK
June 10, 2014

http://www.ksdk.com/story/news/local/2014/06/13/robert-carlson-deposition-statement/10506281/

[with video and copy of the statement]

St. Louis Archbishop Robert Carlson released a letter and video Friday evening responding to coverage of the deposition videos released earlier this week.

The videos show Carlson responding to questions about how he handled sexual abuse allegations against a Minnesota priest in the 1980s. At one point he says he is unsure if he knew back then that sex abuse was a crime.

The Archdiocese of St. Louis has been critical of media reports surrounding the deposition.

In the letter released Friday evening, Carlson apologizes for causing concern and frustration, stating "abuse of any kind is a serious moral offense and a crime."

Carlson goes on to say he "misunderstood a series of questions that were presented," and that he has understood his entire adult life that sexual abuse is a crime and he is committed to protecting children from abuse.