Sexual Abuse News

Illinois State Report Reveals Shocking Number of Catholic Clergy Sexually Abusing Minors

An investigation by the Illinois Attorney General's office has substantiated child abuse claims against Catholic clergy in the state by more than 1,900 victims, with 451 clerics and religious brothers found to have committed abuse. The report, which covers all six Illinois dioceses, found that some allegations were reported but not acted upon, and that punishments varied. At least 1,997 survivors reported being abused by Illinois clergy, with nearly every survivor struggling with mental health issues. The report discloses the names of 451 substantiated child sex abusers and provides narratives and details on the abuse they committed while serving the Church.