WASHINGTON
KOMO
SEATTLE (AP) – The Seattle Archdiocese will pay just over $9 million to eight women who were sexually abused as children by a former priest in Whatcom and Skagit counties.
The abuse occurred between 1968 and 1974 at churches in Burlington, La Conner, Swinomish and Bellingham, according to a news release from the archdiocese.
Lawyers for the women said in a news release Wednesday they hope the resolution will be part of the healing process.
“I feel privileged to have helped represent these women and to have experienced their courage and determination,” attorney Rand Jack of Bellingham said. “They have stood up for themselves and other victims of sexual abuse.”
Archbishop J. Peter Sartain said in a statement Wednesday he deeply regrets the abuse by Michael Cody, a former priest who died last year.
“Our first priority is the protection of children and healing for past victims,” Sartain said. “It is my firm commitment to build on the good efforts of the past and continue to take steps that will truly help victims of clergy sexual abuse to heal. This $9 million settlement demonstrates our ongoing commitment to acknowledge and address the devastating impact of clergy sexual abuse, and to encourage victims to come forward.”
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