The Roman Catholic Diocese of Fresno has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy due to 153 claims of clergy sexual abuse. This decision comes as church officials aim to reorganize their finances and avoid insolvency. The filing follows over a year of discussions about seeking relief in U.S. bankruptcy court.
Bishop Joseph V. Brennan expressed that this step is necessary to address the claims of sexual abuse with fairness while ensuring the church can continue its ministry. He stated that the church must confront the suffering of the victims. However, many victims and their lawyers criticize the move as a tactic to evade accountability.
The next court hearing is scheduled for Monday in Fresno, where Judge René Lastreto II will oversee the proceedings. While the diocese has not admitted responsibility for all claims, a fund is expected to be established for survivors through the court process. Attorney Jeff Anderson, who represents many victims, argues that the bankruptcy proceedings allow the diocese to avoid accountability.
The filing follows the enactment of Assembly Bill 218 in January 2020, which temporarily lifted the statute of limitations for certain sexual assault claims. This law led to a surge in claims against various dioceses in California. Attorney Jennifer Stein noted that many victims have been deeply affected by the trauma of clergy abuse, which often impacts their lives long after the incidents.
Bankruptcy can shift the focus from victims’ experiences to the church’s financial situation, potentially delaying justice for survivors. The Fresno diocese serves over 1 million Catholics across several counties and has acknowledged that its assets may not be enough to cover the claims. Despite the bankruptcy filing, officials have stated they do not expect it to affect local schools or charities.
Critics, including attorney Rick Simons, have raised concerns that the diocese may have used the time leading up to the bankruptcy filing to shield its assets and delay legal proceedings. He argues that this could disadvantage survivors, who might lose their chance for justice as time passes.
The diocese has confirmed it is not receiving financial assistance from the Vatican and has listed some properties, including cemeteries, in the bankruptcy filing. As the legal process unfolds, many are watching closely to see how it will impact the victims and the church’s future.