National Catholic Register News
https://www.ncregister.com/tag/child-victims-act
‘As I have maintained since day one as bishop of the Diocese of Buffalo, it is of paramount importance to deal with these allegations forthrightly and to work to repair the enormous damage that has been done not only to the reputation of the Church here in Western New York, but, most importantly, to the lives of those affected,’ stated Bishop Michael Fisher.
The Child Victims Act opened a window, which closes Aug. 14, allowing child sex-abuse victims to file abuse lawsuits long after their statute of limitations had ended.
New York’s 2019 Child Victims Act created a one-year “lookback” window where alleged abuse victims could file lawsuits long after their statute of limitations had ended.
One Democratic state senator who sponsored the Child Victims Act, Brad Hoylman, said that the pandemic had caused many victims to refrain from coming forward.
The Diocese of Rockville Centre said that while bankruptcy is a last resort, the diocese could pursue such action, noting that the request for a pause will help victims rather than shield predators.
Sean Dolan, spokesman for the Rockville Centre diocese, said that “We disagree with the court’s ruling on the due process challenge to the Child Victims Act and we are analyzing our options with respect to appeal of this and other issues.”
The diocese has been named in more than 250 lawsuits under the Child Victims Act which created a one-year “lookback” window for child sex abuse lawsuits.
Westchester District Attorney’s Office investigation into the claims made against Father Thomas Kreiser would not support further action.
Bishop Guglielmone has repeatedly stated that the accusations are false and is said to be cooperating fully with a Church investigation.
The Child Victims Act would remove the statute of limitations for victims of child sexual abuse, while the Clergy Mandatory Reporter Act would force priests to report child abuse learned of during the sacrament of confession.
Subscriber Service CenterAlready a subscriber? Renew or manage your subscription here.
Subscribe and Save HALF OFF!Start your Register subscription today.
Subscribe NowGive a Gift SubscriptionBless friends, family or clergy with a gift of the Register.
Order NowOrder Bulk SubscriptionsGet a discount on 6 or more copies sent to your parish, organization or school.
Order NowSign-up for E-NewsletterGet Register Updates sent daily or weeklyto your inbox.
Sign Up
