Stephen Adams, a survivor of sexual abuse by a Catholic priest over 60 years ago, has spent decades grappling with a lack of justice. The priest, Gerald Burns, continued working despite allegations against him until his death. In 2018, a grand jury report named Burns and many other priests involved in abuse cases, leading to lawsuits against the Diocese of Scranton and similar institutions.
Adams, along with others, has been advocating for a two-year window for civil lawsuits for abuse victims. However, political deadlock in Harrisburg has stalled the legislation, with Republicans and Democrats unable to come to an agreement on unrelated issues tied to the bill. Powerful interests, such as the Pennsylvania Catholic Conference and Insurance Federation, have lobbied against the window, spending millions in the process.
Former state Rep. Mark Rozzi, a survivor of abuse, has been at the forefront of the fight for justice for victims. He believes that political considerations and influence from these organizations have hindered progress. Attorneys like David Inscho have seen various legal roadblocks hindering victims’ ability to seek justice.
Despite efforts from lawmakers like Sen. Lisa Baker and Gov. Josh Shapiro, who support passing the legislation, the issue remains unresolved. Survivors like Adams continue to wait for justice, frustrated by the delays and the lack of accountability by the Catholic Church. The impasse in Harrisburg has left victims feeling toyed with and overlooked, hoping for closure and restitution that may never come.
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