Child and Elderly Abuse
If you suffered abuse, it was not your fault. If you are a victim of sexual abuse by a priest, deacon, or individual representing the Catholic Church, there are several things you can do:
- Contact the appropriate law enforcement agency, which can help determine options for making a criminal complaint.
- Contact a local child protection agency, a private attorney, a support group, an abuse hotline, or a mental health professional.
- Contact a diocesan or victim assistance coordinator who is available to help victims/survivors make a formal complaint of abuse to the diocese. The Victim Assistance Coordinator is also available to arrange a personal meeting with the bishop or his representative and to obtain support for the needs of the individual and families.
- If you believe someone is in imminent danger or this is a situation of current abuse involving a minor please call 911.
- To report an allegation of abuse or mishandling of allegations of sexual abuse by a bishop please visit the Catholic Bishop Abuse Reporting Service website.
- To report an allegation of abuse by priest, deacon, religious, or lay church personnel, please contact your local Victim Assistance Coordinator