Aug. 15, 2018
QUAKERTOWN – Rep. Craig Staats (R-Bucks) expresses his deep concerns and sadness after reviewing the grand jury report on the child abuse cases reported within the Catholic Church.
“It saddens and disturbs me that these unspeakable acts occurred within the confines of various churches throughout the Commonwealth over the last several decades,” Staats said. “I am Catholic and am active at my local parish. Growing up, I have always had positive experiences while attending my church. Unfortunately, those positive experiences were not felt by those who fell victim to these horrendous crimes.”
This comes after Pennsylvania’s 40th Statewide Investigating Grand Jury released a report, in redacted form, that detailed allegations of sexual acts victimizing minors by approximately 300 clergy. This is the biggest investigation into sexual abuse claims in the Catholic Church performed by any state.
The grand jury was convened to investigate allegations of sexual abuse of minors at six of the eight Catholic dioceses in Pennsylvania. The two remaining dioceses – Philadelphia and Altoona-Johnstown – were the subject of prior investigations (Philadelphia by the district attorney and Altoona-Johnstown by the attorney general).
“Those who were involved in these crimes need to be held accountable for their actions and the courts should try them to the fullest extent of the law. I will review any and all legislative recommendations and help ensure the safety of children in their church, as well as make sure that these situations do not continue to occur in the Catholic church,” Staats concluded.
Representative Craig Staats
145th Legislative District
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
Media Contact: Abby Krueger
akrueger@pahousegop.com
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