Diocese Outlines Two-step Process for Reporting Child Sexual Abuse

By Hope Stephan
Penn Live
August 1, 2018

https://www.pennlive.com/news/2018/08/diocese_outlines_two-step_proc.html

In a lengthy statement released in conjunction with a news conference this morning, Bishop Ronald Gainer said that after reviewing its historic files, the Harrisburg diocese is releasing those child sexual abuse survivors who entered into settlement agreements with the diocese that contained confidentiality clauses from that legal commitment.

Gainer on Wednesday also released the names of 71 people who have been accused of allegations of child sex crimes, just weeks ahead of a grand jury report into clergy sex abuse in the Catholic Church in Pennsylvania.

"I take this step about confidentiality so that the survivors can feel free to tell their stories to whomever and whenever they wish," Gainer said. "I hope that this step will further aid those survivors, and perhaps others, in their path to healing."

The church's new website, www.youthprotectionhbg.com, also contains information on how to report child sexual abuse, contact information for the Victim Assistance Office and detailed information on how the church has confronted this issue.

There are two steps to making a complaint, Gainer emphasized:

Anyone who suspects abuse of a minor should call the toll-free PA Child Abuse Hotline at 1-800-932-0313.

Those reporting suspected abuse of a minor by a church official, employee or volunteer is also asked to call the diocesan toll-free hotline at 1-800-626-1608 or email: ReportAbuse@hbgdiocese.org.

It is critical that the church be made aware of any complaints immediately so that we can remove that person from active ministry or service, Gainer said. All allegations received will be reported to the district attorney of the county involved.