The Cleveland Catholic Diocese has revised its policy on sexual abuse of minors to discourage anonymous tips. In addition, the revised policy calls for diocesan legal officials to direct investigations of non-clergy.
The old policy did not specify whether the legal office or individual church agencies would direct the investigation of church workers and volunteers.
The diocese says the revised policy also adds less confusing language to encourage greater reporting of abuse and requires parishes and church agencies to show they are complying. But a critic says it returns the church to "the bad old days" of cover-ups.
"It is a legalistic document that is meant to cast a veil over their own behavior," said Cleveland lawyer William Crosby, who has represented abuse victims. "This makes me want to weep."
Catholic officials said the policy, which took effect Tuesday, was last updated in 2003.
Review Board Chairwoman Patricia Ritzert said one significant change was to replace "allegation" of sexual abuse with "report suggesting sexual abuse" of a minor.
"Allegation" appeared to suggest to some people that a certain standard had to be met before reporting abuse, she said, while "suggesting sexual abuse" should encourage more people to report inappropriate behavior.
Upon request, all parishes and diocesan organizations must supply information to the coordinator of child sexual abuse prevention programs to show they are complying with the revised policy.
The policy also reiterates "No person who is known to have sexually abused a minor will be permitted in service or ministry."
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