Archbishop of Santo Domingo, Monsignor Francisco Ozoria Acosta announced the creation of a commission on 10 May 2018, to investigate the cases of sexual abuse that priests, deacons and others have been accused of committing. Several cases are being heard in the judiciary.
The commission is named to investigate and present a confidential report to the archbishop for further study and decision-making. The document is signed by general vicar of the Santo Domingo Archbishop, father Abraham Apolinario Abreu.
The commission is presided by auxiliary bishop of Santo Domingo Monsignor Jesús Castro Marte, and priests Abraham Apolinario Abreu and José Guillermo Rosario Sánchez, Jesús Zaglul Criado, and Jorge Iván Rodríguez Vargas.
“The people who have complaints need to substantiate well their claims,” said the religious hierarchy.
Monsignor Jesús Castro said the Dominican commission follows a global actions at all diocese and archdioceses to deal with cases of sexual abuses. He reaffirmed that all persons are innocent until proven guilty. Furthermore, he said that the priests found guilty need support because they are sick people.
Meanwhile, Baní bishop Víctor Masalles said the commission should have been ordered years ago and not now. He said in the country it is usual to place the lock on the door after the theft. Masalles spoke after officiating a mass at the Puerta del Cielo Cemetery Park to commemorate Mother’s Day. He said:
“Fortunately, in our country it is not as common as in other countries, as has happened in Chile or as has happened in the United States. In our country it must exist surely and unfortunately, as it always remains hidden until it comes to light. I hope it comes out. I am the first to say that what is not right, inside and outside, should come to light.”
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El Caribe
El Caribe
El Caribe
29 May 2018
