LINCOLN, Neb. (KMTV) — The Archdiocese of Omaha has submitted documents to the Nebraska Attorney General's office detailing every criminal sexual misconduct case against its priests since 1978.
Overall, 24 archdiosean priests and 38 clergy members have faced substantiated allegations of abuse or misconduct with minors.
“We acknowledge this report with sorrow, and know that it will cause a great deal of pain,” said Archbishop George Lucas said in a release. “We’re deeply saddened so many innocent minors and young adults were harmed by the church’s ministers. To victims and their families, I am sorry for the pain, betrayal and suffering you have experienced in the church.”
Lucas added that none of the 132 priests and 215 deacons currently serving in the ministry have faced any substantiated allegations of sexual abuse against a young person.
“When we see these numbers that go back many decades, we can see that there was a pattern of failure – both on the part of those who misused their office to abuse minors and vulnerable adults, and on the part of those who refused to listen to victims in a compassionate, just and forthright way,” Archbishop Lucas said.
The documents were requested by Attorney General Doug Peterson last summer.
Today in Omaha, Creighton Vice Provost for Mission & Ministry Eileen Burke-Sullivan says the scandal could allow some to lose trust, especially younger people who have grown up with scandal.
"I think people are already shaken, I really do think people are discouraged, they're angry, they're confused and there is a certain level.
You can read the full report here.
