Detective James Dougherty Honored for Work on Philly’s Clergy Sex Abuse Cases

By Susan Matthews
Catholics4Change
April 14, 2014

http://catholics4change.com/2014/04/14/detective-james-dougherty-honored-for-work-on-phillys-clergy-sex-abuse-cases/

During the Philadelphia Coalition for Victim Advocacy lunch on April 11, awards were given to those who go above and beyond for victims of crime. Detective James Dougherty won the Barbara McPherson Award/Police Personnel Award.

Here’s an excerpt from the program book: “…He worked with compassion and diligence on the clergy abuse cases resulting in many victims revealing their victimization. The prosecutors in these trials stated that in their opinion, the convictions of the offenders would have been impossible without the contributions of Det. Dougherty.

One example of his talent and compassion for the victim and for justice is exemplified in a case in which the victim died. At the vicitm’s funeral his therapist stated the following. “There is one more person who had a very strong effect on Sean’s life. This person is someone who Sean came to rely on and trust when he feared abandonment by others. “Jim Dougherty, in the short period of time when you were in Sean’s life, you had a tremendous impact. You also had want Sean desired, a purpose. He would tell me you had a unique talent and a special gift to give to others. You were meant to be the person that you are, at this time, in this place.”