Out of the Darkness: Identifying Solutions for the Catholic Diocese of Dallas Amidst Child Sexual Abuse by Clergy
Based on a lack of reporting allegations to law enforcement, the concealment of documents pertaining to allegations, the continued service of clergy accused of child sexual abuse, and the poor treatment of survivors, the Catholic Diocese of Dallas has demonstrated an inability to internally handle allegations of child sexual abuse by clergy. The main objective of this research is to identify solutions to the problems that plague the Catholic Diocese of Dallas and their current allegation review protocols. Therefore, the research question is: What are the current protocols used by the Catholic Diocese of Dallas to review allegations of child sexual abuse by clergy, where are these protocols failing, and how can these protocols be improved? Using interviews with subject matter experts, analysis of primary source documents produced by the Dallas Police Department, and examination of relevant Catholic Canon Laws, a comprehensive list of recommendations for individuals, Bishop Edward Burns, the Texas Legislature, The Texas Department of Public Safety, and Vatican level officials influencing Canon Law was developed. Each of these recommendations is intended to improve the allegation review process in the Catholic Diocese of Dallas and raise awareness about its current flaws.