PHILADELPHIA (PA)
Survivors Network of Those Abused by Priests
For immediate release: Tuesday, Jan. 28
Statement by Karen Polesir of SNAP, the Survivors Network of those Abused by Priests ( 267-992-9463, karenpolesir@yahoo.com )
We are grateful that Philadelphia prosecutors are following through with their work to protect kids by trying to get Msgr. William Lynn back behind bars.
Yesterday, the DA’s office formally asked the Pennsylvania Supreme Court to hear its appeal of the Superior Court’s reversal of Msgr. Lynn’s conviction. We hope the justices respond favorably and put the physical safety of vulnerable kids and the emotional well-being of wounded adult ahead of one wrongdoer’s freedom.
Deterring those who would protect and enable child molesters – that’s the issue here. Pennsylvania lawmakers aren’t doing this. They repeatedly refuse to open a civil “window” that would expose – and deter – adults who hide child sex crimes (thus ensuring that more such crimes happen).
And Catholic officials aren’t doing this (as evidenced by their refusal to even denounce Msgr. Lynn and by Archbishop Charles Chaput’s willingness to bail Msgr. Lynn out and house him at a Catholic parish).
Because of this refusal – by church officials and Pennsylvania’s lawmakers – it’s especially important that Pennsylvania’s highest court takes action to protect kids, discourage crimes and continue letting police, prosecutors and victims use the justice system to go after those who commit and conceal sexual violence against the most vulnerable.
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