San Jose Diocese Opens Independent Investigation Into Clergy Abuse

The Diocese of San Jose said it has launched an independent investigation into clergy sexual abuse, and hired a former FBI official to review how church leaders have handled past complaints. “Recent revelations of the horrific and heartbreaking crime of the sexual abuse of minors by priests—and the systematic coverup by bishops—have fueled a crisis, unprecedented in modern times, in the Catholic Church,” Bishop Patrick McGrath said in a statement. “There is a need for reform; there is a need for transparency in the way the church responds to allegations of the sexual abuse of minors and vulnerable adults, even as we continue our efforts of preventing abuse and fostering a safe environment for all.” The diocese joins 11 states to investigate clergy abuse following a grand jury report in Pennsylvania in August that revealed extensive sexual abuse and coverup efforts in the church. The San Jose church leaders also plan to name priests who have been credibly accused of abusing children throughout the investigation.