The Sconi

Attorney General Josh Kaul of Wisconsin has provided an update on the progress of the Clergy and Faith Leader Abuse Initiative, as the state marks the three-year anniversary of its launch. The initiative aims to address and investigate cases of abuse by clergy and faith leaders in Wisconsin.

In a statement, Attorney General Kaul emphasized the department's commitment to supporting survivors and conducting independent reviews of abuse cases. He urged individuals with information about clergy and faith leader abuse to come forward, stating, “If you have information about clergy and faith leader abuse, I encourage you to submit a report through the initiative’s online reporting tool or to call the toll-free tip line.”

Survivors who have interacted with the Wisconsin DOJ have expressed gratitude for the support received. One survivor praised the victim services specialist for providing compassion and support, describing the process as one of great comfort. Another survivor highlighted the specialist’s advocacy and support as essential in their reporting experience, noting that the interview was conducted in a safe and comfortable environment.

The Wisconsin DOJ has taken every report of abuse seriously, with a victim specialist evaluating each report and coordinating with a multi-disciplinary team to determine the appropriate follow-up steps. The initiative has received a total of 274 completed reports through the toll-free tip line and online reporting tool.

Several cases reported through the initiative have resulted in criminal charges against alleged abusers. These include cases involving former cardinal Theodore McCarrick and deceased Catholic priest John Cullinan. The initiative's efforts have led to convictions, additions to lists of individuals with substantiated abuse allegations, and further investigations by law enforcement.

Despite the progress made, Wisconsin DOJ continues to encourage survivors of clergy and faith leader abuse to come forward and report their experiences. The department plans to issue a final report outlining the overall impact of the initiative and the responses to reported cases.

The Clergy and Faith Leader Abuse Initiative by the Wisconsin DOJ signifies a significant step towards addressing cases of abuse within religious communities and providing support to survivors. The department remains dedicated to assisting survivors and holding perpetrators accountable for their actions.