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In a significant move to address past grievances, a Catholic diocese in New Jersey has consented to a $180 million settlement to resolve sexual abuse claims filed by hundreds of survivors. This agreement marks the end of a protracted and painful chapter in the church’s history within the state.
Bishop Joseph Williams, who leads the Diocese of Camden, revealed the settlement in a letter on Tuesday. He described it as a much-needed measure for the survivors, emphasizing its importance for their healing process.
“For the survivors of South Jersey, this day is long overdue,” Williams expressed. “It signifies a milestone in their pursuit of justice, offering them the healing and acknowledgment they have earnestly sought and rightly deserve.”
The Diocese of Camden, which encompasses six counties in southern New Jersey, adjacent to Philadelphia, acknowledged that approximately 300 survivors had filed claims against it.
The settlement comes as an effort to bring closure to those affected, symbolizing both a significant monetary commitment and a step towards reconciliation and justice.
Attorney Greg Gianforcaro, who represents victims in the case, credited survivors’ persistence in reaching the agreement after years of litigation.
“It’s been an extremely long and arduous battle,” he said, according to The Associated Press.
Bishop Joseph Williams, who serves the Diocese of Camden, said the settlement was long overdue for the roughly 300 survivors. (iStock)
The $180 million figure surpasses earlier settlements in Boston and Philadelphia, which were around $80 million, but remains smaller than the $880 million agreement reached in 2024 by the Archdiocese of Los Angeles.
The Camden diocese filed for bankruptcy after New Jersey relaxed its statute of limitations, triggering a wave of lawsuits. In 2022, the diocese agreed to pay $87.5 million in a previous settlement involving roughly 300 accusers. Victims’ attorneys said the newly announced $180 million total includes those earlier funds.
The $180 million settlement surpasses earlier settlements in Boston and Philadelphia but remains smaller than the $880M deal by the Archdiocese of Los Angeles. (iStock)
The agreement must still receive approval from a bankruptcy court.
The settlement comes as New Jersey’s Supreme Court has cleared the way for a long-delayed state grand jury investigation into decades of alleged abuse by clergy to move forward.