Vermont’s Roman Catholic Diocese is facing a new wave of lawsuits alleging past child sexual abuse, adding to the $30 million already paid out in settlements for priest misconduct dating back to 1950. The diocese, which has a budget of $12.5 million for the 2023 fiscal year, could face further financial strain due to the ongoing cases. The first case involving former Rev. Edward Paquette was set to be heard in court but has been postponed for an unspecified date.
The diocese has been under scrutiny since the sex abuse scandal was exposed in 2002, leading to multiple settlements over the years. With new laws repealing deadlines for civil claims, more cases have emerged, with at least 16 additional lawsuits currently pending. The diocese has sold off properties to pay for past settlements and has placed local parishes into trusts to protect assets from legal claims.
As the diocese grapples with declining membership and fewer priests, Bishop John McDermott acknowledged the obligation to seek resolutions for abuse survivors, but also expressed concerns about the financial impact. With a total of $30 million in assets, only $10 million is considered available without donor restrictions. The latest lawsuits come at a time when the diocese is already facing financial strains and a significant decrease in membership. Bishop McDermott emphasized the importance of helping survivors while also considering the financial limitations of the diocese.
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