FALL RIVER, Massachusetts — The Catholic Diocese of Fall River in Massachusetts has released a list of 75 clergy credibly or publicly accused of sexual abuse of a minor.
More than three-quarters of the names released by the diocese Thursday have already been made public through previous announcements from the church, media reports, or other means, according to a statement.
There are currently no priests in ministry who have been credibly accused.
“As I pray for a spirit of healing and reconciliation, I know that we cannot move on without an honest accounting for the past,” Bishop Edgar da Cunha said in a statement. “As your bishop, I am deeply and profoundly sorry for the abuse that was perpetrated by priests within this diocese and have recommitted myself to do everything in my power to ensure this never happens again.”
The diocese conducted a thorough review process that was reviewed by independent agencies.
“We believe that the diocese’s investigative and review process was thorough and balanced and was fair to those making an accusation as well as to the accused,” said former Boston Police Commissioner Ed Davis, whose company reviewed the church’s process.
