Ma - SNAP Urges Archdiocese to Work with Police

By David Clohessy
SNAP
September 24, 2012

http://www.snapnetwork.org/ma_snap_urges_archdiocese_to_work_with_police

We are glad that Fr. James Gaudreau has been removed from ministry following this allegation of sexual abuse. However, the Archdiocese of Boston can and should do a lot more in this case.

According to diocesan spokesperson Kellyanne Dignan, the abuse in question is alleged to have taken place in 2006. The fact that it has happened so recently means it is likely that there could be criminal charges in this matter. If the Archdiocese of Boston wants to prove to its flock that it truly cares about protecting kids and preventing further abuse, church officials should work diligently to help the Boston police uncover the facts of this matter.

Cardinal Sean Patrick O’Malley should use all of the resources available to him to reach out to others who may have information on Fr. Gaudreau’s alleged crimes. He should also visit each parish where Gaudreau worked and actively seek out victims or witnesses at each location.

We hope that the Archdiocese will do more than the bare minimum in this case and will do their part to protect kids.