Rhode Island Attorney General's Report Uncovers Decades of Clergy Sexual Abuse

A comprehensive report released by Rhode Island Attorney General Peter Neronha has revealed extensive sexual abuse by clergy members within the Catholic Diocese of Providence, affecting over 300 children since 1950. The investigation, which took nearly seven years, identified 75 clergy members with credible accusations of abuse, highlighting a systemic culture of concealment and protection of abusers by church officials.

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The report indicates that 72 deacons and priests were credibly accused of sexually abusing minors, with most incidents occurring during the 1960s and 1970s. Only 20 of the accused faced criminal charges, and just 14 were convicted. The report emphasizes that the actual number of victims and perpetrators is likely much higher, as many survivors never reported their abuse. The investigation drew on over 250,000 pages of church records and interviews with nearly 150 survivors.

R.I. Attorney General releases report detailing decades of abuse in Diocese of Providence

Historically, the Diocese of Providence engaged in practices such as "priest shuffling," where accused clergy were transferred to new parishes without proper investigations or notifying law enforcement. This practice allowed many abusers to continue their misconduct unchecked. The report also revealed that the diocese maintained a secret archive and destroyed confidential files after the deaths of accused priests, further obscuring the full extent of the abuse.

Boston GlobeR.I. Attorney General releases report detailing decades of abuse in Diocese of ProvidenceRhode Island CurrentReport Lays Out Decades of Child Sex Abuse by Clergy in Rhode Island DioceseKSAT - San Antonio NewsCBS NewsRhode Island uncovers decades of clergy abuse—and a Church that still won’t fully cooperate

In response to the report, Bishop Bruce Lewandowski expressed "extreme sadness" and "intense shame," apologizing to survivors for the church's past failures. He emphasized that there are currently no credibly accused clergy in active ministry and highlighted reforms implemented since 2002 aimed at protecting children. However, Neronha criticized the diocese for framing the report as historical, arguing that the pain of survivors persists and requires ongoing accountability.

Rhode Island Current

Survivors of clergy abuse, such as Dr. Ann Hagan Webb and Herbert Brennan, have voiced their experiences and the long-lasting trauma they endured. Webb, who was abused as a child, noted that the report validates the struggles of victims and emphasizes the need for justice. Brennan, who was abused by the Rev. Brendan Smyth, stated that the report confirms what many have long known about the church's complicity in covering up abuse.

Rhode Island Current

Neronha has called for significant legislative reforms, including extending the statute of limitations for civil claims related to child sexual abuse and allowing grand jury reports to be made public. He emphasized the need for the diocese to establish a compensation fund for victims and improve internal investigation protocols. The diocese has opposed some of these reforms, citing concerns over potential financial repercussions.

R.I. Attorney General releases report detailing decades of abuse in Diocese of ProvidenceStraight Arrow NewsAmerica MagazineReport Lays Out Decades of Child Sex Abuse by Clergy in Rhode Island DioceseCBS NewsKSAT - San Antonio NewsRhode Island uncovers decades of clergy abuse—and a Church that still won’t fully cooperate

The release of this report marks a critical moment for the Diocese of Providence and the broader Catholic Church in addressing the legacy of clergy sexual abuse. While the diocese has made strides in reform, the report underscores the necessity for continued vigilance, transparency, and accountability to ensure the protection of children and support for survivors. As Rhode Island grapples with this painful chapter in its history, the hope remains that justice will be served and that such abuses will not be repeated.

Boston Globe