GUAM
Pacific Daily News
Haidee V Eugenio, Pacific Daily News July 8, 2016
Archdiocese silent on bill that could allow Apuron accusers to sue
A bill that would make it easier for victims to sue alleged child molesters by lifting the statute of limitations is getting wide community support, but the Judiciary, Attorney General Elizabeth Barrett-Anderson and other members of the legal community have recommended changes to the bill to support its intent.
The Archdiocese of Agana has not submitted any comment on the bill, which, if enacted into law, could allow those who recently accused Archbishop Anthony S. Apuron of molesting them in the 1970s to sue him. The statute of limitations for criminal cases in connection with the allegations by the former altar boys expired decades ago. Apuron and the archdiocese have denied the allegations.
Sen. Frank Aguon Jr.’s Committee on Guam U.S. Military Relocation, Public Safety and Judiciary held a public hearing on Bill 326-33 on June 27 and provided an additional 10-day period to submit comments.
The attorney general and the Judiciary noted that the bill would change an existing law that applies to all types of personal injuries and death, and not specifically the sexual abuse of children.
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