Gallup Diocese Prepared to Compensate Victims in Clergy Sex Abuse Case

By Kathy Ritchie
KJZZ
May 6, 2016

http://kjzz.org/content/302701/gallup-diocese-prepared-compensate-victims-clergy-sex-abuse-case

Dozens of clergy sex abuse victims, including 49 from Arizona, may finally be compensated by the Catholic Diocese of Gallup.

A bankruptcy judge has schedule a June hearing on the diocese’s Chapter 11 reorganization plan. If the proposed settlement is approved by the victims, they could be compensated by early fall.

James Stang represents the victims. He said of the $22 million that is being offered by the diocese, $17 million will be divided among the 57 victims, with some receiving more than others.

Then there’s the non-monetary compensation.

“The bishop is writing an apology letter to all survivors," said Stang. "If you don’t want one, you can opt out. There will be plaques posted in schools basically saying abuse is not tolerated. There are agreements to abide by existing child protection policies."

Stang said the diocese will update and post the names of priests who they believe are credibly accused of abuse. The claimants will also get to view the personnel file of their abuser.