California bill helps victims of sexual abuse passes Assembly

By Pedro Quintana
YourCentralValley.com
June 5, 2019

https://www.yourcentralvalley.com/news/california-bill-helps-victims-of-sexual-abuse-passes-assembly/2055913005

Assembly Bill 218 is making its way through the state capitol that would extend the statute of limitations for victims of childhood sexual abuse. 

The current law, states that victims have until they're 26 years old to file a lawsuit against the accuser, the assembly bill would extend that until those victims are 40 years old. 

Clergy Abuse attorney Jeff Anderson is asking the Catholic Diocese of Fresno to come clean. 

"The real reason is so many catholic bishops and top officials have been so complicit in these crimes and apart of covering them up they don't want to have this information revealed and made public," Anderson said. 

The diocese of Fresno has opened an investigation against Monsignor Craig Harrison from Bakersfield, who was a priest in Firebaugh and Merced. 

Father Raul Diaz of Dinuba was put on paid administrative leave after allegations of sexual abuse of a minor. 

Last month, six California Diocese including Fresno announced a new program, to compensate alleged victims who were abused by a catholic priest. An attorney who represents victims said the compensation program is not transparent. 

"This program does not reach out to all survivors," Clergy Abuse Attorney Mike Reck said. 

The diocese of Fresno said it takes very seriously the responsibility of maintaining a safe environment for its children. 

The diocese is also creating a list of clergies who have been accused of improper conduct with minors. 

 Fresno Bishop Joseph Brennan said he has confidence in the steps in place.

"I have confidence in the steps in place, including the Independent Compensation Program. It is understood that nothing will ever truly compensate for the harm that has been done. Only God has the power to heal the wounds of abuse. However, the Church is working to accompany those and support those who are on the path to healing."