BishopAccountability.org
	Rev. Robert Hoatson’s Case against Archdiocese of NY Dismissed Voice from the Desert November 1, 2009 http://reform-network.net/?p=2378 [Hoatson v. New York Archdiocese] I received the following media release from Fr. Bob Hoatson by email today and publish it here with his permission. * * * MEDIA RELEASE November 1, 2009 The recent 29 page dismissal of the case of “Hoatson v. the Archdiocese of New York, et al (2009 NY Slip Op 52174 [U]) is indicative of the need for an overhaul of the legislation in New York State that currently has as its unintended effect to protect sexual predators. Judge Michael Stallman, who took two years to rule, refused to decide on the facts and merits of the case and dismissed my case based solely on procedural technicalities. Once again, a victim of clergy sexual abuse in New York State has the courthouse doors barred to him because of antiquated statutes of limitations and special favors accorded the Roman Catholic Church. This case should give the New York State Assembly and Senate the motivation to pass legislation that will open the courthouse doors to clergy abuse victims and all other victims of sexual abuse. It’s about time. I knew from the start that my case might have a difficult time simply because of bad laws and bad policies, but if this case helps to convince the NY State legislators to amend the law regarding sexual abuse of the innocent, then it will have won a major battle in the war against corrupt religious and secular institutions. I thank my courageous and determined attorney, John Aretakis, and all those who supported me through this nearly four-year process. We are considering filing an appeal and pursing other legal options. Please contact me if you need or would like to review the decision. Rev. Robert M. Hoatson, Ph.D. 46 Morris Road West Orange, New Jersey 07052 862-368-2800 Rmhoatson1@msn.com
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