Investigations Ongoing, Reform Sought Following Clergy Sex Abuse Scandal

By Paul Wagner
Erie News Now
April 24, 2019

https://www.erienewsnow.com/story/40353566/watch-shattered-faith-investigations-ongoing-reform-sought-following-clergy-sex-abuse-scandal

In the second part of his special report, "Shattered Faith," Erie News Now Senior Reporter Paul Wagner looks at how the investigations into the clergy sex abuse scandal are continuing, along with efforts to reform the statute of limitations.

"We have received 1,600 tips to our clergy abuse hotline," said State Attorney General Josh Shapiro during an interview at his Harrisburg office. "Sixteen hundred tips that we have followed up on or passed on to other law enforcement. I think you are going to see action on some of those in the coming months."

Action could come from Washington, D.C., as well as Harrisburg, because the federal government is also investigating.

"While I am not at liberty to speak about any of the details, I can tell you I believe they are taking this very seriously," said Shapiro.

Meantime, efforts at statute of limitation reform continue.

"I am hoping that all the leaders can come together this time and let us get this moving forward," said State Rep. Mark Rozzi, a clergy sex abuse survivor.

Erie Catholic Bishop Lawrence Persico, like other bishops around the state, has opposed reforms. He wants a level playing field.

"That means it covers all churches, all institutions and the government, and that there is not anyone who escapes," said Bishop Persico.

While the political battles and criminal investigations continue, parishes in Erie and elsewhere have to cope with the fallout from the scandal.

"They are going to have to find a way to attract people back and to show the public they are taking concrete steps to put their house in order and to get back to where people believe them again," said State Rep. Pat Harkins.