Little Rock Diocese reveals 26 more abuse cases

LITTLE ROCK (AR)
Arkansas Online

October 25, 2018

By Kat Stromquist

The Diocese of Little Rock said it has received 26 more allegations of abuse by priests within the diocese after its September release of a list of clergy members who were “credibly accused” of sexual abuse against minors.

In a letter to church members Tuesday, Bishop Anthony B. Taylor provided an update after the diocese’s initial posting of the list that identified 12 priests accused of abuse who served in Arkansas. Taylor said the church had received more than two dozen additional complaints in recent weeks.

“I had hoped that the release of the names of those priests known to have abused minors might enable any as-yet unknown victims to come forward to share their story and receive help, and this has in fact occurred,” Taylor wrote. “Since Sept. 10 we have received 26 additional allegations, most of which were against priests already listed in last month’s letter, and none of which were against priests who are currently in active ministry in Arkansas.”

All of the new reports concern events that occurred before 2002, he wrote. Taylor said that although the church has “not had the time” to investigate “thoroughly,” those who made allegations have been offered assistance.

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