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Archdiocese of Los Angeles to Pay $880 Million Settlement for Clergy Abuse
The Archdiocese of Los Angeles has agreed to a substantial $880 million settlement to compensate victims of clergy sexual abuse that spans several decades. This agreement, announced recently, marks the largest single settlement related to child sex abuse involving a Catholic archdiocese, according to attorney Morgan Stewart, who played a key role in the negotiations.
The current settlement raises the total compensation paid by the archdiocese to over $1.5 billion, factoring in the $740 million already disbursed in previous settlements. The scale of this payout underlines the extensive impact of clerical abuse cases in the region.
Following the announcement, Archbishop José H. Gomez expressed deep remorse, stating, “I am sorry for every one of these incidents, from the bottom of my heart.” He emphasized his hope that this settlement would aid in the healing process for the survivors. “I believe that we have come to a resolution of these claims that will provide just compensation to the survivor-victims of these past abuses,” Gomez added.
Details of the Settlement
Attorneys representing 1,353 individuals who claim to have suffered severe abuse by Catholic priests reached this agreement after extensive negotiations with the archdiocese. This development caps a protracted legal battle that has persisted for over 25 years, making it a significant milestone in terms of accountability and compensation within the Catholic Church.
A joint statement from the Plaintiffs’ Liaison Committee highlighted the gravity of the situation, noting, “While there is no amount of money that can replace what was taken from these 1,353 brave individuals who have suffered in silence for decades, there is justice in accountability.” This sentiment reflects a broader call for reconciliation and acknowledgment of the pain endured by many.
Settlement Distribution and Funding
The settlement process will involve distributing the funds among the claimants without direct involvement from the archdiocese. This approach allows for a more equitable allocation of the settlement amount among those affected.
The financial backing for this settlement will come from various sources, including the archdiocese’s investments, reserves, bank financing, and other assets. Additionally, some religious orders and individuals named in the lawsuits will be contributing to the settlement costs.
Acknowledging the Fight Against Abuse
Attorney Morgan Stewart stressed the urgency of reaching a resolution given the aging survivor population and the significant loss of lives connected to these cases. He stated, “These survivors have suffered for decades in the aftermath of the abuse. Dozens of the survivors have died. It was time to get this resolved.”
This settlement signifies a critical step in providing acknowledgment and support to individuals who have long sought justice for their suffering. The Archdiocese’s commitment to better protect its congregation and enhance accountability mechanisms continues to be a focal point in discussions on addressing abuse cases within religious institutions.
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