Colorado Reparations Deadline Could Bring New Wave Of Catholic Clergy Accusations

DENVER (CO)
Colorado Public Radio

Nov. 28, 2019

By Andrew Kenney

People who were abused by Catholic priests in Colorado will face a series of tough decisions as they navigate the state’s new reparations program.

The program’s administrators already have reached out to 65 people who previously alleged abuse, inviting them to apply for financial settlements from the church. About 21 have filed claims so far, according to the administrators.

Time is limited for victims to file new claims of abuse. Anyone who didn’t receive an invitation must register themselves by Nov. 30. That will start a longer process.

Survivors of abuse have approached the program cautiously, according to Jeb Barrett, the leader of SNAP Colorado. Several people in his network are filling out the paperwork, but he’s urged them not to make a final decision until later.

Applicants will be asked for evidence of their claims and other information by Jan. 31. The program’s independent administrators will look over the evidence and then offer financial settlements.

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