Bishops Pledge to Post Predators’ Names

SNAP
September 3, 2015

http://www.snapnetwork.org/malta_bishops_pledge_to_post_predators_names

We are grateful, and kids are safer, any time a predator’s name is posted on line or appears in print. So we’re glad that Malta Catholic officials will reportedly put child molesting clerics’ names on church websites.

[timesofmalta.com]

At the same time, however, we’re highly skeptical that the lists will be complete or that accurate and adequate information will be provided. Historically, Catholic officials have often posted only names of predator priests who have already been “outed” and whose identities are already known because of civil lawsuits and criminal prosecution or others means.

While this pledge may sound promising, we urge victims, witnesses, whistleblowers, Catholics and citizens to keep pushing for full disclosure and real reform. And we urge anyone who saw, suspected or suffered clergy sex crimes and cover ups to seek help from independent sources, like police, prosecutors, therapists, loved ones and support groups like ours, not from Catholic officials.

NOTE – About 30 US bishops have posted names of proven, admitted and credibly accused child molesting clerics on their websites, almost always after considerable public pressure.

[bishop-accountability.org]