New Jersey Supreme Court Strikes Blow Against Catholic Bishops in Their Effort to Suppress the Evidence of Long-Standing Cover-up of Abuse
“This is a big day for transparency and accountability for survivors.” – Jack Boyd, attorney who submitted an amicus curiae brief by Zero Abuse Project in support of Attorney General’s office
(Camden, NJ) – Today, the New Jersey State Supreme Court reversed the lower courts that found the impaneling of a special grand jury concerning clergy sexual abuse was to be kept secret. Because it was “too costly” and “allegations against catholic priests was not a matter of imminent concern under the case law”.
“This is a stunning rebuke to the Catholic bishops who have fought for decades to hide the truth and avoid accountability.” – Jeff Anderson
Under the New Jersey Child Victims Act, hundreds of survivors were given the chance to give civil action against the catholic bishops in New Jersey, all of which are pending.
The Diocese of Camden, under the bishop, made the decision to file for chapter 11 organization which has caused no info to be released, no settlement to be achieved and the truth to be successfully hidden for years. All the other cases in New Jersey are pending and awaiting their days in court.
The Attorney General of New Jersey undertook in light of a public outcry an investigation of these practices by the bishops and abuse by priests.
“This is a blow to the bishop’s efforts to suppress and oppress the truth and the survivors.” – Greg Gianforcaro, attorney
The Catholic Church hierarchy has operated in secrecy and darkness for decades and fought every effort to reveal these long-standing and dangerous practices. They were successful in stopping the AG and thwarted the survivors’ attempt in Camden and across the state to get accountability and require transparency. Today’s decision clears the path along with the civil suits that have been brought to reveal the truth, to expose the practices, to prevent it from happening to others and to bring a long overdue reckoning.
“This is a stunning blow against the catholic bishops of New Jersey in their efforts to suppress and oppress the truth and hide their role in protecting offenders.” – Jeff Anderson
“Today is a day and the time for reckoning.”