Sprawling investigation finds decades of sexual abuse among Catholic priests in Rhode Island

"Not until now has there been a comprehensive review of this painful chapter in our state's history, with a view toward offering transparency, accountability, and systemic reforms that will, I hope, lessen the likelihood of future child sexual abuse, not just within the Diocese of Providence, but in our community as a whole."

"Catholic priests in Rhode Island preyed on hundreds of children for decades, getting away with sexual abuse largely due to a system where bishops prioritized minimizing scandal as the diocese maintained a secret archive to conceal the revelation of more victims."

"The investigation found that 75 Catholic clergy molested more than 300 victims since 1950, but officials stressed that the number of victimized children and abusive priests is likely much higher."

Rhode Island's Attorney General released a multiyear investigation into the Catholic Diocese of Providence, documenting decades of child sexual abuse by priests. The investigation found 75 clergy members abused more than 300 victims since 1950, though actual numbers are likely higher. Bishops prioritized minimizing scandal over protecting children, maintaining secret archives to conceal evidence of additional victims. The report aims to provide transparency, accountability, and systemic reforms to prevent future abuse. Rhode Island has the country's largest Catholic population per capita at nearly 40%, making this investigation particularly significant for the state's religious community.

Read at Boston.com