DOJ Investigation into Clergy Abuse in Wisconsin Receives 180 Reports, Including Allegations of Institutional Failures

The Wisconsin Department of Justice (DOJ) has been conducting an investigation into sexual abuse allegations involving clergy members across the state, drawing nearly 180 reports. This inquiry, initiated in April by Attorney General Josh Kaul and the district attorneys of counties where Wisconsin’s Catholic dioceses are located, aims to address both new and historical claims of abuse. The investigation primarily targets the Catholic Church but also includes other denominations.

Before this investigation, 160 allegations had been identified by various churches and religious orders. Over six months, the investigation has uncovered an additional 40 previously unreported allegations. Attorney General Kaul has expressed gratitude to those who have come forward, emphasizing the investigation’s dual goals of aiding survivors and preventing future harm. He continues to encourage survivors and others with information to report their experiences.

The 180 reports received by investigators consist of 80% abuse allegations and 20% concerning institutional responses to such reports. These reports span a wide age range, from children under 18 to adults as old as 75, and involve every Catholic diocese in Wisconsin, including those in Green Bay, La Crosse, Madison, Milwaukee, and Superior. Some reports also relate to other religious denominations or do not involve religious organizations at all.

Efforts similar to Wisconsin’s investigation in other states have revealed extensive abuse across decades. For instance, a grand jury investigation in Pennsylvania identified over 300 “predator priests” and more than 1,000 victims. In response to the Wisconsin investigation, most Catholic dioceses have committed to supporting victims and cooperating with the inquiry. However, the leadership of the Archdiocese of Milwaukee has criticized the investigation, arguing that it unfairly targets Catholics and questioning its legal basis. Jerry Topczewski, chief of staff to the Archbishop of Milwaukee, stated that the Church has already taken all possible steps to address clergy sexual abuse and questioned why only the Catholic Church is under review when sexual abuse is a broader societal issue.

The DOJ investigation continues, with survivors encouraged to make reports online or by phone. This ongoing effort underscores the importance of accountability and justice, reflecting the biblical principle of seeking truth and supporting the vulnerable, as emphasized in Micah 6:8.

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