A law firm out of Los Angeles has released a report detailing the names of clergymen from the Catholic Diocese of Fresno that are facing allegations of sexual misconduct.
Of the 43 people named in the report at least 15 have connections to Kern County and some of those connections date back to 1947.
The Anderson Report which was compiled by the firm Jeff Anderson and Associates explain that the allegations made in the report should be considered as just allegations and not claims proven in a court of law. The report also claims to be a timeline and analysis of sexual abuse of children within the diocese including a discussion of how the highest church officials allegedly enabled abusers and covered up potential abuse.
The Diocese of Fresno responded to the allegations saying they take the responsibility to create a safe space for children very seriously. The diocese also says they are participating with a former FBI official to review clergy files going back nearly 100 years.
Church officials say they are participating in a compensation program which will start next year. Victims of abuse, including undocumented immigrants can be compensated if they provide documented claims.
In a statement, Bishop Joseph Brennan with the Diocese of Fresno said:
“I have confidence in the steps in place, including the Independent Compensation Program. It is understood that nothing will ever truly compensate for the harm that has been done. Only God has the power to heal the wounds of abuse. However, the Church is working to accompany those and support those who are on the path to healing.”
