More accusations uncovered in the Diocese of Buffalo

Even after a nationally-run expose into secret files, the spread of a federal investigation to their diocese, and a 60 minutes profile of the brave whistleblower who brought those files to light, church officials in Buffalo are still keeping secrets.

WKBW is reporting that two more priests within the Diocese of Buffalo, who have known allegations of sexual misconduct against them, have been permitted to remain in ministry under Bishop Robert Malone. In response to the report, the Diocese has now placed Fr. Ronald Sajdak and Msgr. Fred Liesing on administrative leave pending an investigation.

Recent history has made it clear that church officials in Buffalo have no business conducting an investigation of their own. Instead, all records related to these clergy and others who have been accused of abuse should be turned over immediately to law enforcement. Given these repeated failures to be fully open and honest – despite pledging to be exactly that in March – parishioners and citizens in Buffalo cannot trust Bishop Malone to do the right thing.

We are grateful that the NY state attorney general and U.S. Department of Justice have already opened investigations into clergy sex abuse in New York. If the revelations out of Buffalo are any indication, the investigation is sorely needed. Such an independent investigation is the only way to ensure the safety of children and vulnerable adults, the healing and support of survivors, and the confidence of citizens that the truth will carry the day.

This story is yet another reminder for all those who may have experienced abuse or suspected that it occurred to be sure and make a report to law enforcement, not diocesan review boards or other church officials. We hope anyone who comes forward with a report of abuse will do so by contacting the attorney general’s office at 1-800-771-7755.

CONTACT: Zach Hiner, Executive Director (517-974-9009, [email protected])

(SNAP, the Survivors Network, has been providing support for victims of sexual abuse in institutional settings for 30 years. We have more than 25,000 survivors and supporters in our network. Our website is SNAPnetwork.org)

SNAP Network is a GuideStar Gold Participant