The New Orleans Archdiocese has reached a settlement to pay at least $230 million to hundreds of victims of clergy sexual abuse, following years of negotiations. The settlement was approved by U.S. Bankruptcy Judge Meredith Grabill, with Richard Trahant, an attorney representing the victims, confirming the approval.
Archbishop Gregory Aymond expressed his satisfaction with the resolution, stating that he hopes the survivors will find closure and healing through this process. The settlement comes after the archdiocese filed for bankruptcy in May 2020 to address the numerous abuse claims.
Survivors of the abuse testified in court earlier this month, sharing the lasting impact the abuse had on their lives. Some spoke of struggles with substance abuse, intimacy issues, and feelings of guilt. Others expressed forgiveness towards the church, while some found it difficult to do so.
One survivor, Kathleen Austin, recounted being abused as a child and criticized the church for not holding perpetrators accountable sooner. Archbishop Aymond listened to the survivors’ testimonies and publicly apologized for the church’s failings.
The settlement includes provisions for preventing future abuse, such as having a survivor on the archdiocese’s internal review board and implementing a survivors’ bill of rights. The church will also establish a public archive to share documents related to abuse claims.
Bishop James F. Checchio has been named as coadjutor archbishop of New Orleans, set to succeed Archbishop Aymond upon his retirement. The church is taking steps to address the systemic issues that led to the abuse and is committed to supporting survivors in their healing process.
Overall, the settlement represents a significant step towards justice for the victims of clergy sexual abuse in New Orleans.
