Media Statements
We are SNAP, the Survivors Network of those Abused by Priests. We are the largest, oldest and most active support group for women and men wounded by religious authority figures (priests, ministers, bishops, deacons, nuns and others).
Colorado Attorney General Announces Investigation into Clergy Sex Abuse
Colorado’s top law enforcement official has announced that he is opening an investigation into clergy sex abuse and cover-ups in his state.
SNAP Reacts to the Release of Names of Accused Clerics in the Diocese of Oakland
For immediate release: February 18, 2019
The Diocese of Oakland has finally released its list of clergy and religious brothers “credibly accused” of sexually abusing children. There are 45 names on the list, including at least 5 clerics who have never been publicly identified before: Thomas Duong Binh-Minh, Hilary Cooper, Patrick Finnegan, Daniel McLeod and Virendra Coutts.
More Names Hidden in Chicago, SNAP Responds
Less than a week before the international summit he is slated to lead, Chicago’s top Catholic official is facing new questions about his knowledge and handling of three “credibly” accused priests in his Archdiocese.
Child Victims Act Signed into Law, SNAP Responds
For immediate release, February 14, 2019
The much-needed and greatly anticipated Child Victims Act was signed into law today in New York.
Virginia Dioceses Release Lists of Accused Clerics
Two dioceses in Virginia have released their lists of clergy who have been “credibly” accused of abuse. We are grateful for this move but urge further action.
New Jersey Dioceses Release Lists of Accused Clerics
Today, dioceses across the state of New Jersey have released their lists of clerics who have been “credibly” accused of abuse. We applaud this move but push for further action.
Four publicly accused clerics who are not on Omaha"s list of those with "substantiated allegations"
Four publicly accused clerics who are not on Omaha"s list of those with "substantiated allegations"
--Fr. Thomas B. Laughlin, who “admitted to molesting dozens of boys over decades,” was described by a newspaper as “one of Oregon's most notorious pedophile priests,” and who spent “his last years living a quiet existence near family in Omaha.” A Nebraska native, Fr. Laughlin was ordained in Lincoln. He faced numerous civil suits, most of which settled, and was convicted at least once and sentenced to one year in jail. “Laughlin was known as an exceptionally charismatic priest and tremendous church fundraiser who hobnobbed with Portland's Catholic business and political elite,” wrote the Oregonian.
Details Emerge Regarding the Diocese of Harrisburg's Victim Assistance Fund
Last November, the Diocese of Harrisburg announced that they were creating a victims compensation fund to aid survivors of clergy abuse in their diocese. Today we have learned the details of that fund.