Dozens of Catholic priests molested hundreds of Rhode Island victims over decades, multiyear investigation reveals

PBS NewsHour
by Kimberlee Kruesi, Associated Press
March 4, 2026
22 views
2 min read
AI-Generated Summary

A multiyear investigation has revealed that dozens of Catholic priests in Rhode Island molested hundreds of children over several decades. Bishops allegedly prioritized minimizing scandal, allowing the abuse to continue and maintaining a secret archive to conceal victims' identities. This systemic cover-up prevented justice for victims and obscured the true extent of the abuse within the diocese. The findings highlight a long-standing institutional failure to protect children and address criminal behavior. This revelation underscores the need for continued accountability and transparency within religious institutions.

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