Settlement Talks Begin for Guam’s Nearly 280 Clergy Sex Abuse Claims

Minnesota-based attorney Edwin Caldie and colleagues, representing clergy sex abuse survivors and other claimants in the Archdiocese of Agana’s bankruptcy, arrived in federal court on October 30, 2019, for a settlement conference. Idaho-based attorney Craig Vernon, working with Guam attorney Anthony Perez, also participated in the event. The conference marked the first day of discussions aimed at resolving nearly 280 clergy sex abuse claims in Guam.

Former altar boys Leo Tudela and Roland Sondia were among the first to sue their abusers, following Guam’s decision to lift the statute of limitations for child sexual abuse claims. Tudela, Sondia, and at least four other survivors took part in a closed-door conference with the Archdiocese of Agana to explore settlement options. Participants were instructed to keep details confidential, though general statements about expectations were shared.

“It’s the first step of hopefully getting some justice for them,” said Craig Vernon, who is working with Anthony Perez and Hawaii-based attorney Randall Rosenberg to represent about a dozen claimants. Vernon expressed optimism but acknowledged the process would require significant effort.

Attorney David Lujan, whose firm represents most of Guam’s clergy sex abuse claimants, indicated the settlement was unlikely to be finalized during the two-day talks. U.S. Bankruptcy Judge Robert J. Faris, serving as mediator, scheduled the conference in the U.S. District Court of Guam building.

Attorney Kevin Fowler, representing 20 claimants with the Seattle-based Pfau Cochran Vertetis Amala law firm, described the initial atmosphere as “collegial, but things are moving slow.” The settlement conference continued with the goal of addressing the complex legal and emotional challenges of the case.

The ongoing efforts highlight the need for accountability and justice in addressing historical misconduct. The process reflects the broader struggle to ensure victims are heard and supported, while navigating the legal and institutional frameworks that govern such cases. The pursuit of justice remains a central theme in these proceedings.

Source: Read the original report