AUSTRALIA
The Australian
Mitchell Nadin
From:The Australian
November 09, 2012
A SENIOR detective in the NSW police force has accused the Catholic Church of covering up widespread pedophilia within the church and written to the NSW Premier, Barry O’Farrell, demanding a royal commission.
Detective Chief Inspector Peter Fox, who was instrumental investigating systemic pedophilia over more than a decade in the NSW Hunter region, claims a network of priests worked to conceal their actions and even used parish money to fight legal battles.
Inspector Fox said many priests had “no hesitation” in lying about the chronic practice, which took place in the Newcastle-Maitland Diocese.
The region has attracted attention for the large number of victims — numbering about 400 — and 11 clergy have been charged and convicted since 1995. Three current priests are also on trial.
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