Statement Regarding Allegations
Against MA Bishop

For More Information:
David Clohessy of St. Louis, National Director (314) 566-9790 cell
Barbara Blaine of Chicago, President (312) 399-4747 cell

For immediate release:
Wednesday, February 10, 2004

SEX ABUSE VICTIMS RESPONDS TO ALLEGATIONS OF CHILD ABUSE AGAINST SPRINGFIELD DIOCESE BISHOP

STATEMENT by Barbara Blaine of Chicago, President and Founder of SNAP, the Survivors Network or those Abused by Priests (SNAP)

"We hope that Dupre's retirement provides at least some degree of closure and healing for the dozens of innocent Catholic children whose lives were devastated during his watch and because of his complicity.

It's troubling and sad that Dupre's duplicitous behavior has continued until the very end of his tenure.

We ache for these boys and their families and commend them for their courage in speaking up. When victims remain silent, nothing changes. We hope that others who experienced, witnessed or suspected abuse in the Springfield Diocese are inspired by their brave example and break their silence. When they find the courage and strength to come forward, sometimes justice can be done and other kids can be protected.

We also ache for the Catholics in the Springfield Diocese, many of whom will feel deeply betrayed by Dupre's dishonesty."

SNAP is the nation's largest support group for clergy abuse victims with 4600 members in 56 self-help groups nationwide.