Abusers Cut Off

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TRANSCRIPT

The diocese of Buffalo is removing 23 priests accused of sex abuse from its payroll.

This is happening due to an agreement with abuse survivors achieved this week through bankruptcy court.

The diocese filed for bankruptcy in February amid a torrent of clerical sex abuse lawsuits and other scandals implicating diocesan clergy.

For instance, there is the case of the late Dennis Riter — a priest who was kept in ministry for years despite multiple allegations of sexual abuse against young boys.

Another scandal involved seminary rector Fr. Joseph Gatto making homosexual advances. He was put on administrative leave and the diocese deemed him guilty, but he later returned to active ministry after psychological treatment.

Buffalo bishop Richard Malone resigned in disgrace in December after years of festering scandals. In his place, Bp. Edward Scharfenberger of the Albany diocese is acting as apostolic administrator in Buffalo.

The news that alleged predators are no longer getting money from the diocese may be a source of relief for victims.

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