In 2008, a southern Illinois jury heard substantial evidence of a heinous, years-long diocesan cover-up of heart-breaking child sex crimes by Father Raymond Kownacki. Jurors awarded $5 million to one of the priest’s victims. Three years later, Belleville Diocese’s Bishop Braxton keeps battling relentlessly to avoid honoring the jury’s judgment and helping the priest’s victims heal.
Today, the Illinois Supreme Court opted not to hear yet another appeal by Bishop Braxton. For this one victim, it looks like his long struggle for accountability, prevention and justice may be nearing an end. The Diocese of Belleville must now pay this survivor.
I fear there are others who were assaulted by Kownacki – boys and girls – who are still trapped in pain and shame, feeling alone and helpless. I hope they will courageously speak up so that more of the cover ups and crimes will be unearthed.
Civil lawsuits and survivors coming forward not only let other survivors know they are not alone, they also help to inform the public and can spark an external investigation that can lead to further justice. Civil litigation continues to be one of the primary ways survivors seek justice, expose cover-ups, and push institutions to implement stronger policies to protect children and prevent abuse in the future. If you were abused by a priest in Illinois, you are not alone.