The Archdiocese of Los Angeles has agreed to an $880 million settlement with 1,353 victims of clergy sexual abuse, bringing decades of litigation to a close. This is the largest settlement involving the Catholic Church, adding to previous settlements that bring the total payout to more than $1.5 billion. Victims’ attorneys say this agreement brings justice, though full justice may never be achieved for the survivors. The abuse survivors, many of whom have suffered for decades, hope this settlement offers some healing.
A Quarter-Century of Litigation
The legal battle against the Archdiocese began decades ago, with more than 300 priests accused of sexually abusing minors. While this settlement resolves most cases, some lawsuits remain pending. Archbishop José H. Gomez expressed deep regret and affirmed the Church’s commitment to preventing future abuse. Measures like background checks, reporting requirements, and training programs have been implemented, and Gomez emphasized that no clergy members found to have harmed minors currently serve in ministry.
The Role of Cardinal Mahony
Cardinal Roger Mahony, who served as Archbishop during much of the scandal, has been criticized for his handling of abuse cases. Documents released in 2013 revealed Mahony and other Church leaders actively concealed abuse from law enforcement, allowing clergy to continue their predatory behavior. One of the most notorious offenders, Father Michael Baker, confessed his crimes in 1986 but was allowed to continue in ministry, leading to the abuse of more than 40 children.
The settlement also ensures further transparency, with the Church agreeing to release more files related to the abuse. Despite this resolution, the financial burden on the Archdiocese is immense, and other dioceses across the country have faced similar struggles.
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L.A. Catholic Church to pay record settlement over clergy abuse; cumulative payouts top $1.5 billion
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