Leaked testimony from a 2020 deposition sheds light on how veteran Catholic priest Lawrence Hecker remained in the priesthood for two decades despite confessing to child molestation. The deposition revealed how higher-ups in the New Orleans Catholic Church allowed him to continue his ministry, even after being diagnosed as a pedophile and taking sabbaticals.
Hecker’s promotion to monsignor in 2000 went ahead despite archbishops expressing regret over his promotion following his confession to being a serial child abuser. He remained in the priesthood until facing a grand jury indictment in 2020 on charges including child rape and kidnapping.
The deposition offered a detailed account of the church’s efforts to shield Hecker from accountability, including multiple abuse-related settlements paid out by the archdiocese. Hecker’s inclusion on a list of credibly accused clergy in 2018 highlighted how the church struggled to address the extent of his abuses over the years.
Hecker’s denial of rape allegations in a criminal case against him, contrasted with his confession during the deposition, raising questions about his actions and the church’s handling of his case. The revelations have sparked scrutiny over the church’s role in allowing Hecker to evade accountability for so long, despite numerous allegations and admissions of abuse.
The deposition provided a rare insight into the systemic cover-up of abuse within the church and the challenges faced by survivors seeking justice against powerful institutions. As Hecker awaits trial, the case underscores the ongoing battle for accountability and transparency in cases of clergy abuse.
Source
Photo credit www.wwltv.com