Locals react to list of priests accused of sexual misconduct

By Rebeca Marroquin
KLFY TV
January 12, 2019

https://bit.ly/2RQiXYO

The names of 14 priests accused of sexual misconduct involving children have been released by the Diocese of Houma-Thibodeaux.

News 10 spoke to local residents about what they think of this recently released list. 

One person, who wished to remain anonymous, said they believe other dioceses should follow suit, "I think for the damage that's been done to these people's lives, you know, the church should cooperate as much as it can and release those names as well."

Another resident, Adrian King, believes it's the public's right to know, "That's something that should be a matter of public record. Especially for all of the Catholic parishioners to just be aware. I mean, we have a predator list for when someone non-clergy is convicted of a crime, then it's published. So I think we have a right to know, just in general."

And while the people we spoke to know releasing the names can't make up for the sexual misconduct any victims had to endure, one person said, "I think it's a start. You've got to start somewhere and I think that's a good beginning. I'm sure a lot more would have to be done, but I think that's a good first step."