San Diego, Calif., Aug 14, 2019 / 18:19 pm
Bishop Robert McElroy of San Diego announced Aug. 13 an Independent Compensation Program for victims of sexual abuse, set to begin in September.
He also called on all diocesan employees- not just those who are mandated reporters under the law- to contact the appropriate authorities if they "come to a strongly founded belief that a minor is being victimized sexually."
"I would suggest that if you are not a mandated reporter, but come across evidence which points in your mind to the existence of the sexual abuse of a minor either within the life of the Church or in their family or social lives, and you are unsure how to proceed, you consult with one of the experienced mandated reporters at your school, parish or agency to come to clarity on what you should do," the bishop said.
"I would ask those of you here today who are not mandated reporters to keep in mind that both the moral law and the civil law urge you to report known or suspected instances of the sexual abuse of a current minor to child welfare services."