Chaput: Suspended Philly Priests Need Resolution, but Trial Gag Order Could Limit News

The Republic
March 9, 2012

http://www.therepublic.com/view/story/2d1f4b1176e849c283dca25e4c57d685/PA--Priest-Abuse-Charges/

The Roman Catholic church in Philadelphia is preparing to release updates on the fate of about two dozen suspended priests accused of sexual abuse.

The investigations began one year ago after a blistering grand jury report.

In a news column Thursday, Archbishop Charles Chaput (SHAP'-yoo) says "justice requires a resolution of these men's circumstances."

In a news column Thursday, Archbishop Charles Chaput (SHAP'-yoo) says "justice requires a resolution of these men's circumstances."

Chaput says he hopes to release the findings on most of the suspended priests within eight weeks. But a gag order in a related criminal case could limit what he can say.

A jury has already been picked for the March 26 child-endangerment trial of Monsignor William Lynn. He's the first U.S. church official ever charged for allegedly keeping accused predators in ministry.

Church lawyers are asking the judge if the archdiocese can release its findings.