The Reckoning: Mediation Begins for Historic Catholic Church Abuse Settlement in New York

The Roman Catholic Church in New York has agreed to mediation to settle over 1,300 sexual abuse claims, potentially resulting in one of the largest payouts in U.S. history. The negotiations involve full disclosure of past wrongdoing and measures to prevent future abuse, aimed at compensating victims.

The Roman Catholic Church in New York and over 1,300 accusers have agreed to mediation to settle sexual abuse claims, which could lead to one of the largest payouts by the church in the U.S.

Attorney Jeff Anderson, representing some 300 of the accusers, revealed that the civil litigation against the Archdiocese of New York, slated for trial next year, prompted this settlement effort. The archdiocese aims to settle claims dating from 1952 to 2020 in the coming months.

While seeking to raise $300 million for victim compensation, the church faces challenges, including an ongoing dispute with Chubb Insurance over coverage of decades-old claims. Cardinal Timothy Dolan has asked for forgiveness from survivors in light of the revelations.

(With inputs from agencies.)