At least 550 people file sexual abuse claims against archdiocese (Milwaukee)

[hue]

http://www.jsonline.com/features/religion/at-least-550-people-file-sexual-abuse-claims-qc41d68-138542119.html

At least 550 people filed sex-abuse claims against the Archdiocese of Milwaukee by Wednesday's deadline in its bankruptcy proceedings - by far the largest number of claims among the eight Catholic diocesan bankruptcies in the United States since 2004, and on par with a 2009 Jesuit bankruptcy that covered victims in five states.

Milwaukee victim-survivors and their attorneys called the number "staggering," although they contend it still fails to reflect the magnitude of the Catholic sex-abuse crisis in southeastern Wisconsin. They said some victims were unwilling to file because they were intimidated by the process or did not think they could prevail against the church.

"We're looking at the tip of the iceberg," said attorney James Stang, who represents the creditors committee composed of victim-survivors. "Statistically, sex crimes are grossly underreported . . . and based on that, we are assuming that many more claims are out there."

[Stuart G]

1. K and R thanks for posting..nt

[progressoid]

2. Rec.