Tuesday, April 03, 2007

Former Priest Asks Diocese For Full Disclosure In Sex Scandal

Last Friday, the names and parishes of 38 priests accused of molestation were released by the Diocese.

But former priest Richard Sipe said local Catholics deserve full disclosure of the alleged crimes.

Sipe has counseled other priests accused of abuse.

He's also done ground-breaking research on the scandal and now works as a witness for lawyers suing the church.

Sipe said the list is incomplete and claims it omits dozens of names of former priests against whom there is strong evidence of abuse.

He has challenged the Diocese to release thousands of pages of documents he said shows a history of lies and cover-ups.

Plaintiff's attorney Michael Zimmer said he agrees with Sipe, but acknowledges the Diocese's efforts, calling it the first public acknowledgement of abuse.

Diocese Attorney Micheal Webb said any decision about more disclosure would be made only by Bishop Robert Brom.

He also said the Diocese hopes more abuse victims come forward before the court imposes a deadline that will stop them from seeking financial payment for damages.

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