The Michigan Attorney General’s office, led by Dana Nessel, has released a pivotal report regarding allegations of sexual abuse within the Diocese of Grand Rapids. This report aims to acknowledge the painful experiences of victims while outlining the Department of Attorney General’s findings on the allegations.
Key Findings from the Diocese of Grand Rapids Abuse Report
The comprehensive document includes information gathered from various sources. This includes:
- Victim interviews
- Police investigations
- Open-source media
- Documents seized from the Diocese
- Electronic records from diocesan computers
The report examines incidents reported since January 1, 1950, and identifies 51 priests with allegations of sexual misconduct, of which 38 were ordained by the Diocese of Grand Rapids. The Diocese was established in 1882, and the details arise from a search warrant executed on October 3, 2018, and from a tip line operated since that year.
Commitment to Transparency and Support for Victims
“Accountability does not end with criminal prosecution,” stated Nessel. “It includes transparency, acknowledgment, and a commitment to supporting the victims.” The report emphasizes that survivors deserve to be heard, even years after the incidents. The Diocese’s cooperation was crucial to compiling this report.
The allegations described in the report include serious misconduct such as grooming and misuse of authority, affecting both minors and adults. It’s important to note that many cases may no longer be prosecutable due to statutes of limitations, the passing of the accused, or the victim’s choice not to pursue charges.
Background of the Investigation
This report is the fifth in a series addressing abuse across Michigan’s Catholic dioceses, with reports on the Diocese of Marquette and others planned for the future. The scope of the investigation involved substantial resources, with:
- 42 Michigan State Police troopers
- Five officers from various agencies
- 15 special agents from the Department of Attorney General
In total, 220 boxes of documents and over 3.5 million electronic files were seized across seven dioceses.
Criminal Prosecutions
The Attorney General’s office has charged 11 Catholic priests in connection with sexual assault cases across Michigan, resulting in nine convictions. Notably, none of these prosecutions were related to the Diocese of Grand Rapids.
Next Steps and Resources
Victims can reach out through the abuse tip line, which has received 1,228 reports leading to numerous police investigations. For the Diocese of Grand Rapids, 105 tips were processed, with 27 sourced directly from the Diocese.
For individuals seeking further assistance or wanting to report abuse, resources are available at 855-VOICES4. The investigation hotline can also be reached at 844-324-3374.
This report represents a significant step in addressing sexual abuse within the Diocese of Grand Rapids, shedding light on a painful chapter while providing a pathway for justice and healing for victims.
