Victim Assistance

The Office of Victim Assistance has a designated Victim Assistance Coordinator who serves as the liaison between the Diocese and individuals reporting allegations of sexual misconduct involving clergy members, members of religious orders, diocesan and parish employees, volunteers, and liturgical ministers.  

The Coordinator’s primary responsibilities include:

• Promptly informs the alleged victim of his/her rights and obligations; 

• Organizing pastoral and spiritual care for individuals, their immediate families, and affected faith communities who have experienced sexual misconduct by a cleric, a member of a religious order,  a diocesan or parish employee, volunteer, or liturgical minister;   

• Coordinate reimbursement for mental health and spiritual counseling in accordance with established diocesan processes and procedures;

• Serving as the victim’s primary point of contact, explaining Diocesan policies and reporting procedures.

ADULTS REPORTING PAST ABUSE

All individuals who wish to report allegations of sexual abuse must complete the Complaint of Abuse Form.  

For questions regarding the form, please contact the diocesan Victim Assistance Coordinator, Jacqueline Bressette at 315.470.1465 or [email protected].