The Louisiana Supreme Court recently made a controversial decision siding with the Catholic Church in a case involving clergy abuse lawsuits. The court ruled 4-3 in favor of church lawyers who challenged the constitutionality of laws reviving expired civil claims of child sexual abuse. This decision came as a blow to survivors of clergy abuse who were hoping to have their day in court after decades of suffering.
In 2021 and 2022, state lawmakers unanimously passed laws allowing individuals with claims of child sexual abuse to sue, regardless of when the abuse occurred. This was in response to cases like that of Douglas Bienvenu, who alleged years of abuse by a deceased priest at St. Martin de Tours Catholic Church in the early ’70s. The church argued that the claims were prescribed under the law at the time, leading to a legal battle.
The Louisiana Child Victims Act provided a three-year window for survivors to file claims, even if the prescription period had expired. However, the Supreme Court’s ruling struck down this opportunity, leaving many abuse victims without legal recourse. The church’s financial motivations have also come to light, with bankruptcy filings aimed at avoiding costly legal claims.
Despite this setback, survivors continue to grapple with the trauma and pain of their past experiences. The Legislature’s decision to extend the filing window was a step towards justice for these individuals, and their ongoing struggle for healing and accountability is one that we must support. The recent ruling may have closed one legal avenue, but the impact of clergy abuse will continue to be felt for years to come.
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