Survivors of Clergy Sexual Abuse Reach $180 Million Settlement in Diocese of Camden Bankruptcy Case
“The Survivors stood strong and resolute first against the Bishop and then the insurance industry, who retraumatized the survivors by denying and delaying justice.” – Jeff Anderson
(Camden, NJ) -Today, survivors of clergy sexual abuse in the Diocese of Camden have reached a final settlement with the Diocese, its affiliates, and all its insurers for $180 million.
“After decades of being ignored and dismissed, survivors of sexual abuse in the Diocese of Camden have finally reached a measure of accountability,” said attorney Greg Gianforcaro. “Their persistence in standing up to those who harmed them made this moment possible.”
The Diocese of Camden filed for Chapter 11 Bankruptcy in 2020 in the wake of lawsuits filed by survivors under the New Jersey Victims’ Rights Bill. The Bill allowed survivors to bring previously time-barred claims for a limited window of time. In addition to the monetary component, the settlement provides for non-monetary child protection protocols to ensure that children in the Diocese are better protected in the future.
“Today’s settlement with the Diocese of Camden marks the final step in a long and hard-fought legal battle,” said Trusha Goffe. “This achievement belongs to the survivors, whose courage in endlessly standing up for truth and accountability is nothing short of triumphant.”