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CALIFORNIA'S 2003 SEX ABUSE LAW
PROTECTS CHILDREN--NOT SECRECY!
Have all sexual predators been revealed in your state?
Demand the truth and stop the cover-ups! Two out of the three priests assigned to my children's Catholic school committed sex crimes against minor children BEFORE they were assigned to our family's Catholic school and parish. My children remained safe from heinous sex crimes...but I refuse to stay silent! All precious children and families need support and truths -- NOT SECRECY! Support justice and corrective legislation in the interests of faith and peace.
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LETTERS - WHY?
Exercising freedoms of speech,
press and opinion are personal
choices in one's life path.
The tragedy of September 11, 2001
was soon followed by the the clergy
abuse crisis. The truths reveal that
politics have interfered with the
protections of God's most precious
gift to the world, my children,
your children, ALL children.
Children cannot protect themselves and
need us to speak out to protect them.
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"The Path"
We were all sent down the path on
September 11, 2001. We did not choose
the path nor would we have ever chosen.
The tragic circumstances of 911 have
led us in a world war against terror.
Before we knew it,
we were sent down a second path,
that no one would choose.
The truths now revealed, thanks
to the courage of survivors and
their families, a crisis that
erupted in 2002, evolving in a
life path many walk together,
NEVER alone.
No one would choose the life
paths now in in our midst because
innnocent lives were destroyed
and witnessing betrayals of trust
violate our faith and beliefs for
peace and justice.
The years have passed quickly,
and at one time, how wonderful
it seemed so many courageous
spoke out to protect. All
children deserve to be safe
in a promising world, free
from sex crimes and silencing
of truths. Before all turns dark
and hostile, will those in
positions of leadership open
their eyes, or will ominous
silencing continue, journeying
through life as it is today.
The life path we choose,
is one of personal choice...
* Will we choose to walk the path
together, or choose to walk it alone?
* Will our life path we choose be
created or forced?
* Will we learn from past history
and correct the wrongs committed
against God's most precious gift?
* Or, we will we learn from the
things that were done, the unspeakable
betrayals, and DO something about it?
Our children deserve to witness acts
of personal choice, free from
terrorism. Can and will we find the
courage to show them the way?
* We can turn "garbage into roses."
* We will meet others on our life path.
* We will cry, yell, disagree or
choose to remain silent, but will never
judge another's pain.
* We have the freedom to choose our
life path and choose to never allow
another in pain to walk alone.
* As we journey together, making
life choices to protect, may we fight
to protect ALL children, in a world
of peace and justice.
May we speak without fear,
with love for all crossing our path,
as a personal choice. When we meet a
fork in the road, we have the
freedom to make a choice to part
ways, may we always remember
what we have shared together
on the paths we walk.
Making personal choices,
reclaims ME!
But in our choices,
many anger and feel threatened.
The gift of freedom to choose,
to NEVER walk alone, while
supporting one another, without
judgment or fear.
Our life paths may change but
we hold dear in our hearts,
each moment we touch one
another with courage and truths.
We are free to support without
fear, making personal choices
during our life path that reach
out for others to hear.
Freedoms allow us to reclaim ME.
Together, we walk, create choices,
move forward, learn and make
mistakes, with hope some day,
peace will follow.
Walking together, we support
one another, in solidarity.
We turn to those who
fear making choices, we reach
out to offer support and
understanding, as we support
one another, may we...
* we remind each other who
we are and what we're about.
* we ground each other and
learn to care for one another.
* we learn to care for
ourselves, without losing ME,
as I once did.
* we speak without fear.
* we speak and seek truths.
* we support justice, peace
and the laws of the land.
The life path we walk,
is what WE choose!
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Petition to Remove Cardinal Mahony
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LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
By Debby Bodkin
** ORANGE COUNTY REGISTER
June 4, 2006
"Children pay the price for church's refusal to uphold law"
In response to the article, "Judge rules against Mater Dei" [Local, May 26]: As an O.C. Catholic wife and mother, I find there is no way to "spin" or "manipulate" the intent of our country's laws relating to the protections of children from sex-abuse crimes and other dangers.
Attorneys take an oath to uphold laws, with ethics and good faith. The legal advisers for the Diocese of Orange and bishops nationwide obviously believe that public claims of "misstating" legal arguments will somehow "spin" the truths so that the faithful Catholics will continue to support the causes of the church and the high price of the failure to protect precious children and those who protect them, as whistleblowers.
Freedom of religion does not include sex-abuse crimes against children, cover-ups of the crimes, failures to report the crimes and legal abuses of our country's court system. If immediate corrective action does not occur within the business and employment practices of the Catholic Church and other private institutions, children and adults will never be safe.
If I were a bishop, my first priority would be to demand moral, legal and financial accountability from the many legal advisers who have "misstated" our country's laws to me, through legal advice and court battles, that lead to monetary civil and court damages nationwide.
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** BOSTON GLOBE
February 9, 2006
"Church's Education Woes Start With Treatment of Employees"
As a Catholic married to a former Catholic school teacher and as a mother with children who have attended Catholic schools and colleges, I believe Catholic education is a gift to the communities of Catholicism. (''Archdiocese seeks new ideas, students," Globe North, Feb. 5). When will bishops and Catholic leaders get the message?
Instead of providing Catholic employees with respect, dignity, and decent health benefits, the Catholic workplace is full of intimidation and fear. How many Catholic employees live in fear of losing benefits, employment, and pensions since the eruption of the clergy sex abuse scandals? How many employees have not had contracts renewed after making a report of abuse or violation of the law?
Once Catholic leaders realize that the Church can rebuild and renew the lost faithful by simply treating those they employ with respect and dignity, Catholic education will be the core of the Church, and strategies seeking new ideas and students will no longer be necessary.
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** LOS ANGELES TIMES
May 23, 2005
"Diocese of Orange Still Must Clean Its House"
Re Dana Parsons' column, "Diocesan Files Show Deceit, Denial," May 20: Bishop Tod Brown has led the Diocese of Orange to the halfway mark to reconciliation and healing for sex-abuse victims, their families and Orange County Catholics.
The last half of Brown's journey may be the toughest. The truth is now out and the sex-abuse cases have been settled.
The final chapter is the demanding of accountability from diocesan legal advisors and employees who aided in the cover-ups and obstructions of justice, and who are still employed by the diocese, while escaping criminal charges. Until this occurs, Brown's "covenant with the faithful" is meaningless.
Until Brown cleans his house, children will not be safe from dangers, sex-abuse victims cannot heal and struggling Catholics will remain just that, struggling.
We can only pray that Los Angeles Cardinal Roger Mahony, bishops, diocesan officials and elected government leaders throughout California and the U.S. are learning from the painful history of the Diocese of Orange.
Without California's 2003 sex-abuse law, none of these events would have occurred. It is time for other government leaders to lead their states in legislation lifting the statutes of limitations for civil lawsuits nationwide.
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** ORANGE COUNTY REGISTER
August 6, 2005
Patrick Wall found a personal way to answer the scandals with his own personal holiness, fighting for the return of due process and equal protections of the law denied to victims of clergy sex abuse and their families for many years.
In my opinion, it is disgraceful that bishops, Roman Catholic leaders and diocesan attorneys nationwide are allowed to continue legal stonewalling.
These tactics have destroyed the lives of many innocent children and their families. It is time to put our children first.
(In response to article about Patrick Wall...after 11 years as a Benedictine monk - six as a priest - he had renounced his vows and left St. John's Abbey. Disheartened by sexually abusive monks, restricted by rigid superiors and convinced his vow of celibacy would fail, Wall finally won his freedom from the Rule of Benedict. Mr. Wall now assists clergy sex abuse victims in finding justice and healing).
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** OC WEEKLY
November 5, 2004
"GOOD CATHOLICS"
Thank you for "The Worst Things Yelled at a Catholic Sex-Abuse Survivor" [The Best of OC, Oct. 22]. I am not a victim of clergy sex abuse but am a Catholic who passionately supports the victims of abuse who are seeking justice and healing. For any Catholic who does not believe the hurtful statements some Catholics make to victims of abuse... This summer, I learned firsthand that many Catholics want victims to keep quiet and out of sight; it’s easier for them to go on with their lives that way, pretending all this destruction to innocent children did not take place. The behavior of fellow Catholics—turning their backs on victims—breaks my heart. If it weren’t for the victims’ efforts, the protection of children from clergy abuse would continue to be at risk. I’m thankful that victims share the passion for children’s safety to continue their efforts. God bless them.
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** ORANGE COUNTY REGISTER
May 19, 2005
Clergy scandal: The data are devastating, the details shocking
The information made public about the Roman Catholic Church sex-abuse cases is shocking ["Second chances," Front Page, May 18]. (www.ocregister.com)
As a Catholic mother who has raised children in Orange County since 1983, and whose children also attended several Catholic schools, I have no words to describe much of what has been released in these documents. Apologies from bishops, the $100 million settlement and the release of the personnel records are historic steps forward in the healing and reconciliation for clergy-abuse victims and Catholics in Orange County
God bless the courageous victims of clergy sex abuse. The release of the personnel records is proof that God is on their side in fighting against these horrific crimes. But where were church "legal advisers" while all these heinous crimes were being covered up and justice obstructed?
Attorneys are the first to be consulted by bishops. Bishops are not attorneys, and attorneys take oaths to uphold all laws of our land, especially protecting children from crimes of sex abuse.
In my opinion, any legal advisers in Orange County or anywhere in the United States who assist or have assisted a Roman Catholic bishop in covering up heinous crimes committed against children should never get a second chance to abuse the authority bestowed upon them as attorneys.
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** ORANGE COUNTY REGISTER
September 25, 2005
"Diocese of Orange Still in Denial"
It is unfortunate that the Diocese of Orange chose to publicly downplay the largest clergy sex-abuse settlement in the country by launching a press release announcing that a debt of $100 million will be paid off in a year's time. In my opinion, the Diocese of Orange should be publicly launching support for the many Catholics and diocesan employees who have made this reduction in debt possible.
In my opinion, children will never be safe from sex-abuse crimes or other dangers in the Diocese of Orange until written "whistle-blower" policies are provided to diocesan employees who report violations of the law committed against children, adults and employees. As long as employees fear employment loss or adverse employment decisions, no one within the Diocese of Orange is safe from sex-abuse crimes or potential dangers.
I am still waiting for a written policy from Bishop Brown, if any exists, which I requested in April 2004.
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LETTERS TO THE EDITOR:
** ORANGE COUNTY REGISTER
March 10, 2004
"Letters - How can we hold church hierarchy accountable?"
Editorial, "Zero tolerance for lax church leaders" [March 5], saddens my heart as a Roman Catholic. The sexual molestation scandals and lawsuits are just the beginning of the problems and only symptoms of the abuse-of-power culture that exists within the Diocese of Orange.
As soon as the public relations firms put out the fires from the sexual molestation scandals and Lent and the "Covenant with the Faithful" have passed, the church officials' abuse of power will continue. Diocesan officials continue to protect the diocese from public scandal or assist in minimizing civil damages. And they are employed for life without accountability.
The policies to protect children from sexual molestation may be posted on the Diocese of Orange Web site, but who is answering the hot line or investigating the reports? Can they be trusted?
The real question is whether a policy is in place that educates Catholic children, families and workers on how to report any type of abuse in the event the public relations Web site and sexual molestation hot lines are monitored by someone who covers up or interferes with an initial report. Then what?
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** PORTSMOUTH HERALD (New Hampshire)
June 13, 2005
"Pupils displayed Catholic values"
As a Catholic mother of children who attended Catholic schools in Orange County, Calif., thank you for "Bishop fails to learn lesson from students," and specifically, to the sincere showing of Catholic social teachings exhibited by the seniors at the Catholic high school.
To the students and to their parents, thank you for stepping up to the plate and voicing morality and values that will no doubt be heard throughout the United States.
We can only pray that the bishops attending the U.S. Bishop’s Conference in Chicago will bring this public message sent by sincere Catholic high school seniors with them in mind and soul. At one time, Catholicism stood for the values and teachings exhibited by the high school students, and the Bishops need to closely examine their repeated mistakes and stonewalling of those young Catholic adults, who will soon be the leaders of the Catholic Church.
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** WWW.TWISTEDBADGE.COM
May 15, 2005 (Part 12)
"Dear Mr. Mickadeit and Mr. Madigan:
As a reader who diligently reads all of your writings during the past 3 years, with admiration and respect, I felt compelled to respond to today's "It's time to clear the air..." in the O.C. Register. As a non-politically connected 50 year old woman (Sat. is the big 50!), Mr. Mickadeit's attempt to save his reputation truly symbolizes the real dangers in O.C. when persons exercise their constitutional rights to freedom of speech and press. Mr. Madigan has reported corrupt activities in O.C. long before any other journalists in O.C., with maybe the exceptions of the brilliant journalists at the OC Weekly, and the time may be approaching for O.C. readers to take note of those writings during the past 3 years.
I had two letters published in the O.C. Register last year (2004) exercising my rights to freedom of speech and opinion relating to the Catholic sex abuse scandals and alleged workplace issues in the O.C.D.A.'s office. Unfortunately for me, without stating specifics, "life changing" experiences occurred in both instances days after the letters were published in the OC Register. The truth is that in O.C., the rights to free speech and press will be criticized and condemned if those rights are not in accordance with the unwritten rules in O.C., stay politically connected or move out of O.C.
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** ORANGE COUNTY REGISTER
July 29, 2005
"Fired-up over more funds for mismanaged agencies"
I was disgusted to learn that the Orange County Board of Supervisors voted to continue to reward tax dollars to the District Attorney's Office and the Sheriff's Department, which have been consumed in political-corruption and employment-related lawsuits under their current leadership ["Board OKs tax options," Local, July 27].
In private enterprise, most people are rewarded for performance and maintaining budget standards. In O.C., it appears elected government officials will remain unaccountable for wasted tax dollars spent on litigating such lawsuits.
Let's hope that the non-politically connected O.C. firefighters can find support from the voting public. The firefighters truly deserve tax dollars after saving lives and homes from fire devastation year after year. I cannot remember the last time I read about an O.C. firefighter who wasted valuable tax dollars in fighting political corruption and employment-related lawsuits.
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** ORANGE COUUNTY REGISTER
July 5, 2005
"A public-service stint"
I was sorry to learn that opinion columns editor Chris Reed will be leaving O.C. journalism ["Veterans depart, irrelevance continues," Local, July 1]. Chris has contributed to the education of the O.C. community. His honest and ethical reporting and opinions, even when the subject matter has been controversial or not considered politically correct by O.C. government/political communities, have truly been a public service that will be missed. Best regards to him and his family in his new venture.
Editor's note: Chris Reed is now an editorial writer for the San Diego Union-Tribune. We'll miss him, but we're sure he'll be working to keep San Diego officials on their toes.
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** ORANGE COUNTY REGISTER
October 28, 2004
I applaud Mike Clesceri's public statement and the Register for printing it ["Medical condition, disability claim both legit," Oct. 25]. It appears that Clesceri was a victim of "workplace stress" that resulted after he participated in what he thought was "doing the right thing."
Due process and equal protection are rights guaranteed to all Americans, and, in Clesceri's situation, the retirement he will receive is part of this right.
Anyone who complains about the $58,000-a-year pension should look deeper into what led to his retirement as an investigator for the District Attorney's Office and the reasons leading to the stress.
Thank you to Clesceri for making a decision to "do the right thing." Unfortunately, doing the right thing sometimes carries consequences that have long-lasting criticisms. Your retirement pension and your right to make a public statement regarding the gossip circulating is a blessing. It takes courage to "do the right thing" in today's workplace.
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** OC WEEKLY
June 24, 2005
"COXIS"
Thanks to OC Weekly once again for the coverage relating to Chris Cox’s pending appointment as chair of the SEC [web exclusive, “Cox By the Numbers,” June 9]. It just doesn’t make sense for President Bush to nominate a politically connected OC Republican for a high-ranking position when the OC political scene—Sheriff’s Department, district attorney and GOP—have been so heavily involved in connections with institutions and individuals surrounded by controversy and potential corruptions for the past few years. Isn’t there someone else that could fit the president’s SEC chairman appointment who can come into the responsibilities with a clean slate?
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Submitted to OC Register
April 11, 2006
Dear Editor and Ms. Lowe:
In response to "Second Verse, Same as the First?", only in the OC would the Republican GOP find a way to take a second endorsement vote because the Sheriff for two terms did not receive the party's endorsement during the first vote.
It is like the OC attorney who represents the OC Sheriff's Dept., while simultaneously representing the Catholic Diocese of Orange, the County of Orange and the LA Catholic Archdiocese. Obviously, there has to be a reason why sexual predators and those who covered up the crimes, escaped criminal prosecution by law enforcement.
It is like a principal's son at a prominent Catholic HS in the OC who is charged with felony gun possession on the school's campus and one year later, escapes probation, jail and a criminal record, while his principal-father is transferred to a Catholic HS in Los Angeles.
The O.C. Sheriff and the OCDA are positions meant to serve the interests and safety of children and the general public -- NOT just the OC Republican party and the rich, famous and politically-connected in the OC.
The laws governing separation of Church and State are continually violated when it comes to the OC Republican party and the safety of citizens not only in the OC, but nationwide. In my opinion, this places children and adults at risk. When will it stop?
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Posted OC Weekly, March 11 @ 10:42 a.m.
Justice would have been served almost immediately if the charges were handled in the juvenile court system. The video would have been viewed by a judge, the case facts heard and the sentencing would have followed. The juvenile court process would not have taken four years to complete and it would have been private. Jane Doe and her family would have been protected from the media horror suffered. The defense team would have been able to defend the three boys without battling the media’s input. Whoever made the decision to drag Jane Doe, Haidl, Nachreiner, Spann and their families through two adult public jury trials made a political decision.
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** ORANGE COUNTY REGISTER
August 6, 2005
Patrick Wall found a personal way to answer the scandals with his own personal holiness, fighting for the return of due process and equal protections of the law denied to victims of clergy sex abuse and their families for many years.
In my opinion, it is disgraceful that bishops, Roman Catholic leaders and diocesan attorneys nationwide are allowed to continue legal stonewalling.
These tactics have destroyed the lives of many innocent children and their families. It is time to put our children first.
(In response to article about Patrick Wall...after 11 years as a Benedictine monk - six as a priest - he had renounced his vows and left St. John's Abbey. Disheartened by sexually abusive monks, restricted by rigid superiors and convinced his vow of celibacy would fail, Wall finally won his freedom from the Rule of Benedict. Mr. Wall now assists clergy sex abuse victims in finding justice and healing).
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BLOGGING:
Posted: www.mediamatters.org
May 12, 2006
NSA Must Be Accountable to "Checks & Balances"
Protecting Americans from threats and acts of terrorism requires a system of "checks and balances" and accountability in all branches of government, law enforcement and the NSA.
There could be serious violations of privacy if the NSA database of phone numbers gets into the hands of an abusive and/or self-serving political, government or religious leader or institution.
Once the NSA database turns to a political tool -- the protections of Americans from terrorism and privacy breaches becomes secondary -- this is a serious civil rights violation and the public deserves to know the truth.
Has the NSA phone number database been violated by any person in authority within the NSA or other government law enforcement agency?
If an abuse has occurred within the NSA, has the "crime" been addressed through civil or criminal sanctions? and,
Finally, if there has been a violation of privacy laws within the NSA telelphone number database, will Americans find out about the breach from the media, the NSA or President Bush?
- DebbyBodkin / Friday May 12, 2006 11:43:41 PM EST
(http://mediamatters.org/items/200605120018)
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** WWW.UNSPUN.MITHURO.COM
May 29, 2005
Response to "Pope Faked Child Abuse Investigation"
If what has been written is true about the "faking" of a Vatican investigation that was purportedly opened in December, 2004 into the sex abuse allegations relating to Marcial Maciel, "force" demanding accountability from the Catholic hierarchy may only be possible in the U.S.A. and those countries who guarantee due process rights to all persons equally.
It is now the responsibility of each state Attorney General in the USA to open investigations so that the due process rights denied to any victims of clergy sex abuse, can be returned to the unsuspecting victims. Until this is done and enforced, heinous crimes relating to children will continue to be covered up by members of the Catholic hierarchy and precious children and their families will never be able to live with the rights that have been guaranteed to all Americans.
Thank you to all the victims of sex abuse, their families and the tenacious journalists who have brought exposures to the public. Without their courage, the Catholic hierarchy would only continue to abuse their power and authority, hiding behind the teachings of the Catholic Church.
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** WWW.FREENEWMEXICAN.COM/NEWS
October 31, 2005
Archbishop Levada's appointment as prefect for the Doctrine of Faith, was definitely a positive step in the right direction by the Pope, IF Levada steps up to the plate and uses his experience from the US scandals, to do the right things:
RETURN DUE PROCESS RIGHTS TO ABUSE VICTIMS AND THEIR FAMILIES.
STOP THE LEGAL STONEWALLING - CONSERVE DEFENSE ATTORNEYS' FEES AND COSTS.
START THE HEALING AND REBUILDING OF THE FAITHFUL CATHOLICS WHO HAVE SUPPORTED THE CHURCH THROUGH THESE HORRIFIC CRIMES AND SCANDALS.
A publication stated that the Holy See recently filed a motion to limit Levada's testimony in an upcoming deposition and this sends a RED FLAG!
Catholic Dioceses who file for bankruptcy protections should not also be allowed to manipulate and violate the federal discovery process, by filing meritless motions to limit deposition testimony or other types of judicial delays.
If judicial abuse continues, government leaders nationwide must immediately re-evaluate the tax filing status of Catholic and other religious institutions, who have failed to protect children from sex abuse crimes.
It is time to make educated choices in the interests and safety of the general public. Many anxiously await the important decisions resting in the hands of government and religious leaders nationwide.
Debby Bodkin
http://www.catholics4justice.com
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Posted OC Weekly, March 11 @ 10:42 a.m.
Justice would have been served almost immediately if the charges were handled in the juvenile court system. The video would have been viewed by a judge, the case facts heard and the sentencing would have followed. The juvenile court process would not have taken four years to complete and it would have been private. Jane Doe and her family would have been protected from the media horror suffered. The defense team would have been able to defend the three boys without battling the media’s input. Whoever made the decision to drag Jane Doe, Haidl, Nachreiner, Spann and their families through two adult public jury trials made a political decision.
Debby Bodkin, Founder, www.catholics4justice.com
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LETTERS TO CHURCH LEADERS:
March 15, 2006
Dear Cardinal Mahony:
The word of Father John O'Byrne's installation as a Monsignor is wonderful news, especially to the Catholic laity who have worked with Fr. O'Byrne in a multitude of ministries. We want to thank you for bestowing this honor on Fr. O'Byrne.
However, this news of Fr. O'Byrne's honor has left us with questions. The Addendum Report to the People of God Clergy Sex Abuse releaed in 2005, reports that he has an allegation of sexual misconduct. We have heard nothing since that Addendum was made public. Has this allegation against Fr. O'Byrne been resolved? If so, what was the process of the investigation? What was the conclusion? Has it been reported publicly anywhere?
This leads to other questions. What about all the other priests listed on the Addendum? Have any of them been cleared? Or have any of the allegations been found to be substantial? Since Fr. O'Byrne has remained in ministry during his investigation, have any of those other priests been removed from ministry while the allegations against them are being investigated?
Concerned Catholics have united with survivors of clergy sexual abuse in a forum called "A Coalition for Truth" to dialogue about the issues that unite us. Over the last two months we have invited you and your representatives to join us. We continue to issue this invitation to you. These are exactly the kinds of questions that we believe need to be discussed.
Now more than ever, the Catholic laity are called to support communities of faith, victims of past abuse and priests of integrity with prayer and public outreach. We take very seriously the Gospel challenge to be the Good Samaritan. We seek justice and healing for all who have been hurt these times of crisis for the Catholic Church.
Fr. O'Byrne's elevation to Monsignor should be a time of celebration. However, renewals of faith and trust also play a large part in the celebration. Your public statement is desperately needed to restore trust in the reform, policies and procedures that govern sexual misconduct allegations.
With this in mind, it is very important that you provide a public statement regarding the allegation of sexual miscondcut as reported by the Archdiocese concerning Fr. John O'Byrne before he is publicly honored with the title of Monsignor.
Please respond to our questions as soon as possible. As always, may God bless you.
Respectfully,
A Coalition For Truth
Mary Jane McGraw
Anchorhold@aol.com
Mary Pitcher
mmpitcher@charter.net
cc: Michael Hennigan, Esq.
Tod Tamberg
Sr. Sheila McNiff
Fr. John O'Byrne
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March 20,. 2006
LA ARCHDIOCESE - CLERGY SEXUAL MISCONDUCT BOARD
(Via email: SrSMcNiff@la-archdiocese.org, SrPMurtaugh@dioceseofmonterey.org, tadominguez@sbcglobal.net, dmurray@rcbo.org, mediacenter@sbdiocese.org, misconduct@diocese-sdiego.org)
Dear Sister Sheila and Sexual Misconduct Board Diocesan Representatives:
Congratulations to Cardinal Mahony and the LA Archdiocese's successful celebration held yesterday afternoon at the Cathedral. Although not present at the ceremony, many concerned Catholics were present before the celebration outside of the Cathedral conducting public outreach, wherein I was a participant.
It is with deep sadness that I learned not one response was received from the letter sent to the LA Archdiocese, Attention Cardinal Mahony. A copy of the letter is shown below. As stated on numerous occasions, the laity also seek healing and closure because of the sex abuse scandals that have affected the survivors of abuse, their families and the Catholic laity watching from the pews.
The celebration is now behind us and as Founder of www.catholics4justice.com, it is with respect that we seek a response to Cardinal Mahony's letter dated March 15, 2006. Without a response to the letter, the safety of precious children may be at risk. As Catholics we hope the allegations against Father O'Byrne are resolved; however, without the commencement and completion of the LA Archdiocese investigation process, renewals of faith and trust are further delayed.
By copy of this email, I am alerting other California Dioceses about the importance of the sexual misconduct investigation process, especially to the laity who seek justice and healing for survivors and clergy of integrity. If you deem appropriate, please provide members of "A Coalition of Truth" an opportunity to meet with you and/or Cardinal Mahony concerning the LA Archdiocese's Sexual Misconduct Board and whether it is effectively protecting children and adults from sexual misconduct and danger.
As I do not have Tod Tamberg or Fr. John O'Byrne's contact information, please forward a copy of this email to them on my behalf. Thank you for all you do to protect precious children -- soon to be the leaders of our Church. God bless you.
Respectfully,
Debby Bodkin, Founder
www.catholics4justice.com
bodkind@hotmail.com
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To: SrSMcNiff@la-archdiocese.org
CC: SrPMurtaugh@dioceseofmonterey.org, tadominguez@sbcglobal.net, dmurray@rcbo.org, mediacenter@sbdiocese.org, misconduct@diocese-sdiego.org
Subject: Clergy Sexual Misconduct Oversight Board
Date: Mon, 20 Feb 2006 11:36:37 -0800
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Dear Sister Sheila McNiff:
As Assistance Ministry Coordinator for the LA Archdiocese, please forward the email below to Dr. de Fuentes and the Clergy Sexual Misconduct Oversight Board. Thank you.
Debby Bodkin, Founder, www.catholics4justice.com
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February 20, 2006
Catholic Archdiocese of Los Angeles--Clergy Sexual Misconduct Oversight Board, Attn: Dr. Nanette de Fuentes
Re: COALITION OF TRUTH
Dear Dr. de Fuentes:
Thank you for your participation in "Coalition of Truth" that was held on February 12, 2006. It surely was not easy confronting the complex emotions that day but hopefully, your experience as a panelist has provided you with a better understanding of the necessity for healing. Your participation as a panelist took courage and you have the admiration of many.
As a Catholic mother who actively supports the protections of children and vulnerable adults from clergy sex abuse and nationwide legislation that will return civil due process to victims of past abuse crimes, I would like to submit the following information to you for discussion with the LA Achdiocese's Clergy Sexual Misconduct Oversight Board. By copy of this email, I am sending the California Dioceses that are listed on the LA Archdiocese's website for consideration.
1. Please reconsider the LA Archdiocese's policy to hire independent investigators and/or retired Judges to investigate "allegations" of clergy misconduct. As long as the LA Archdiocese provides financial gain to independent investigators, there will always be an appearance of a "conflict of interest". While I understand it is impossible to find "volunteers" to investigate allegations of clergy misconduct, there may be a government agency that could also investigate allegations of abuse, without an appearance of impropriety.
2. In my opinion, sexual harassment training for employees is not sufficient to protect children from sex abuse crimes. As a legal assistant for 25 years, I have taken many corporate sexual harassment training courses; however, sexual harassment in the workplace is different than protecting children from sex abuse crimes or other types of danger.
3. It is imperative that employees understand that adverse employment decisions will not follow a mandated report of sex abuse or other violation of the law. Catholic school teachers, coaches and administrators wear many hats and must understand "Whistleblower" protections guaranteed to all Americans, equally. Please consider introducing additional training to LA Archdiocese employees so that intimidation or fear will not prevent a report of sex abuse.
Bishops have taken many steps to ensure that children and adults are protected from clergy sex abuse crimes in the future. The civil lawsuits arising from California's 2003 Sex Abuse Law have revealed many painful truths and now as a society, additional employee and parent training will guarantee that Bishops' efforts to protect children continue, without interruption.
There are two additional programs sponsored by Coalition for Truth, scheduled for March 12, 2006 and April 22, 2006, from 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm, at St. Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church, 3646 Coldwater Canyon Blvd, Studio City, California. Please spread the word and invitation to anyone interested in participating. Please feel free to contact the sponsors of the Coalition of Truth workshops -- their emails are listed below.
Thank you again. Best regards.
Debby Bodkin, Founder
www.catholics4justice.com
bodkind@hotmail.com
info@catholics4justice.com
cc:
Diocese of Fresno (tadominguez@sbcglobal.net)
Diocese of Monterey (SrPMurtaugh@dioceseofmonterey.org)
Diocese of Orange (dmurray@rcbo.org)
Diocese of San Bernardino (mediacenter@sbdiocese.org)
Diocese of San Diego (misconduct@diocese-sdiego.org)
Sponsors of Coalition of Truth:
Mary Jane McGraw (Anchorhold@aol.com)
Mary Pitcher (mmpitcher@charter.net)
Udo Strutynski (ustrutynski@yahoo.com)
*************************
UPDATE 2/19/06 - No response per letter below.
Copy of response received from The Archdiocese of San Francisco, One Peter Yorke Way, San Francisco, California 94109-6602, (415) 614-5500:
August 4, 2005
Dear Ms. Bodkin,
Thank you for your letter of July 25, 2005, addressed to Archbishop William J. Levada, Prefect for the Congregation of the Doctrine of the Faith. Your letter arrived in the Archbishop's Office as he was making final preparations for his departure from San Francisco and permanent relocation to Rome.
Please be assured that your letter will be sent to the Congregation's office in Rome for the Archbishop's review as he takes up his new duties.
Sincerely yours in Christ,
Reverend Steven J. Lopes, STD
Secretary to the Archbishop
cc: Archbishop William J. Levada
*****************
July 25, 2005 -- Sent Via Email & Certified Mail
(info@sfarchdiocese.org)
Roman Catholic Archdiocese of San Francisco
The Reverend Archbishop William Levada
One York Way
San Francisco, CA 94109
Re: Protections of Children
Dear Archbishop Levada:
In anticipation of your departure to Rome, it is respectfully requested that you evaluate the items described herein as you begin your new leadership role as Prefect of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith.
I am a Catholic mother and a passionate supporter in the SNAP (Survivors of those Abused by Priests) organization. No one in my family is a victim of clergy sex abuse and it is my belief that the protections of children from sex abuse and other dangers is now Society's problem, to fix and correct.
On July 15, 2005, I launched a public website, www.catholics4justice.com to continue efforts to support the safety of children, adults and those who protect them as mandated reporters, Diocesan employees, teachers, coaches and administrators. Since the launching of the website, I have received inquiries from employees in multiple Dioceses nationwide regarding the subject matters described below. It is my hope to obtain policies and/or answers from you as soon as possible.
Please provide a copy and/or contact person relating to:
1. Policy stating how a Diocesan employee, child or adult should report information relating to sex abuse crimes that have occurred in the past and relate to cases that have settled and/or completed litigation. Evidently, some employees are confused about whether to report knowledge of past sex abuses. Please provide some type of direction in this regard.
2. Policy stating all "Whistleblower" protections within the Catholic Diocesan workplaces. Evidently, many Diocesan employees believe that Whistleblower protections are not available in the Catholic workplace. It is very important that this concern be resolved as soon as possible. In order to protect children from sex abuses, Diocesan employees must feel at ease when making a report of sex abuse, without fear of employment termination or adverse employment decision, after a report of abuse is made.
3. Policy stating how a report regarding any misconduct by a "supervisory" Diocesan employee is made in the event due process of the law is denied to a child, parent, member or employee.
4. California's 2003 Sex Abuse Law has revealed that many sex abuse crimes and reports were handled with poor judgment by Catholic Bishops and/or Diocesan employees. In order to protect the rights relating to equal protections of the law nationwide, it is respectfully requested that as Prefect of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, you will lead a voluntarily support of legislation nationwide, similar to California's 2003 Sex Abuse Law, which will lift the statute of limitations for a period of one year, so victims facing statute of limitation expirations can seek civil due process in a court of law. This important step will allow victims nationwide to seek justice and healing that has been denied for many years in addition to saving hundreds of thousands of dollars in unnecessary attorneys' fees and court costs.
May God bless you in your new leadership role. Please feel free to contact me at the address below or via email at bodkind@hotmail.com if you have any questions. Thank you for your consideration and I look forward to receiving information that will assist in the protections of children and those who protect them.
Sincerely,
Debby Bodkin, Founder
Catholics4Justice.com
cc:
California Catholic Conference of
Bishops (conference@cacatholic.org)
U.S. Attorney General (AskDOJ@usdoj.gov)
California Attorney General
U.S.C.C.B.
Cardinal Roger Mahony
Michael Hennigan, Esq.
*********************
October 17, 2005
Bishop Wiegand, Sacramento Catholic Diocese
Via Certified Mail - 7005 1820 0007 1658 8387
Re: Catholic Schoolteacher Fired for Volunteer Work, LA Times, 10/16/05
Dear Bishop Wiegand:
In response to a recent news release referenced above, I am deeply disturbed about the apparent business and employment practices that deny due process and civil rights to employees within the Diocese of Sacramento (see enclosed #1).
As a Catholic wife and mother, whose children have attended Catholic schools in Orange County, California, I am very confused as to why a volunteer activity, before Ms. Marie Bain's employment with the Diocese of Sacramento, would cause termination of her employment. If Ms. Bain was found to be teaching pro-abortion philosophy in her Catholic high school classroom, I could understand your decision to terminate Ms. Bain, because Catholic schools have the right to enforce the religious teachings of the Church.
My concerns stem from my own personal family experiences. During my daughter’s junior year at Santa Margarita Catholic HS, in Orange County, California, she was required to complete certain Christian service projects as part of her religious instruction, from a list of non-profit organizations provided by her religion teacher. I was shocked to learn that one of the last projects left for her to choose from was assisting a non-profit Lesbian/Gay organization in Los Angeles, California, approximately 60 miles from our residence. At the time, both her stepfather and I were very concerned about the potential dangers of driving to Los Angeles to complete a Catholic religion course and were concerned that Catholic teachings were not honored at the Lesbian/Gay organization. Rachel did assist at the non-profit Gay/Lesbian organization and spent the day licking and stamping envelopes to meet her Catholic school requirements. Although we were very concerned about this religious Christian service project, we support the Catholic school’s decision in this regard, since the assignment came directly from a religious instructor.
As we all know, homosexuality is also not accepted in the teachings of the Catholic Church as well as abortion. I somehow cannot understand the serious denial of Ms. Bain's civil rights to participate in a volunteer activity, outside of her place of employment. In addition, I find it quite odd that a parent would have a photograph that supposedly would cast a negative public image on the Sacramento Catholic Diocese. In my experiences, I have found that sometimes parents who are politically-connected and/or large donors to the Catholic Church are sometimes allowed to lead what I refer to as a modern day Catholic "witch hunt". It is also my belief that the Sacramento Catholic Diocese is being managed similar to a “Strategic Lawsuit Against Public Participation”.
On July 15, 2005, I launched a public website entitled www.catholics4justice.com with the hope of assisting clergy sex abuse victims in finding justice and healing in addition to educating those who protect them as “mandated reporters” from workplace retaliation, after a report is made by an employee. In addition, to guarantee the protections of children from sex abuse crimes and other dangers, please confirm with the Diocesan legal advisors there are Whistleblower protections within the business practices of the Sacramento Catholic Diocese.
On July 25, 2005, I sent a letter to former Archbishop William Levada regarding the need for Catholic Whistleblower protections. On August 4, 2005, a response to my letter was received (see enclosed #2). To date, I have not received answers to the questions posed in my letter but have faith a response will arrive shortly, considering the urgency of the matters addressed.
It is my sincere hope that you will re-evaluate your decision to publicly humiliate and terminated a dedicated Catholic school teacher. It is my sincere hope that you will reconsider your decision to terminate Ms. Bain's employment with the Sacramento Catholic Diocese because of her past volunteer activities. Speaking from experience, intimidating Catholic school teachers, parents and students destroys many Catholic families. In addition, this type of employee intimidation, if allowed to continue, will never allow the Catholic Church the healing and reconciliation it so desperately needs, since the clergy sex abuse scandals erupted in 2001.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me via email, bodkind@hotmail.com or __. Thank you for your prompt consideration.
Respectfully submitted,
Debby Bodkin, Founder
www.catholics4justice.com
cc: Bishop William Levada
California Catholic Conference of Bishops
U.S. Attorney General
California Attorney General
Bishop Tod Brown, Diocese of Orange
US Catholic Conference of Bishops
***********
LETTERS TO GOVERNMENT LEADERS:
April 6, 2006
From: A Coalition of Truth
California Senators and Assembly Members:
As concerned citizens, we are thankful that California legislators have placed the protections of children and adults at the highest priority through proactive legislation efforts. Thank you for leading the nation in these efforts.
California's 2003 Sex Abuse Law has provided insight to the complexities of the clergy sex abuse scandals, again, thanks to your courage and leadership.
There are still many unanswered concerns that continue in California and nationwide relating to the protections of children, adults and employees, especially in the religious and/or private sectors. A Coalition for Truth is a joint effort to open the lines of communication about the clerical sexual abuse of children.
The dialogue is often emotionally charged with viewipoints shared by survivors of abuse, attorneys, investigators, psychologists and concerned Catholics and non-Catholics. As government leaders, you have and will continue to keep California's children and families safe. However, ongoing dialogue will be the key and we strongly believe that:
Information is not communication.
Communication isn't just about information.
It's about ACTION.
It's about building productive relationships;
It's about understanding.
And understanding gets RESULTS.
For the reasons stated herein, we would like to extend an invitation to you, as an elected government official in California, to attend A Coalition for Truth's next conference with the Rev. Thomas Doyle, O.P. as the guest speaker, scheduled for April 22, 2006, from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Attached are further details about the event for your reference.
We are proud to take part in any and all efforts to protect children and vulnerable adults. Your insight and dialogue, as government leaders, will be
instrumental in the efforts to protect children not only in California but nationwide. There is no greater gift than our children. Believe it or not, they are
watching how we as adults and a society, correct the wrongs that the clergy sex abuse scandals have publicly revealed. Thank you again for all you do.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact the undersigned.
Respectfully,
Mary Jane McGraw, 818-889-8375
(emailto: Anchorhold@aol.com)
Mary Pitcher, 562-434-0428
(email to: mmpitcher@charter.net)
--------------------
April 7, 2006
To: Press Telegram @ speakout@presstelegram.com
"Good Cop, Bad Cop, Mahony"
Dear Editor:
In the midst of the horrific clergy sex abuse scandals nationwide, Cardinal Mahony somehow believes he can publicly direct his flock to disobey immigration laws based on the teachings of the Church. We live in a great country and government leaders will ensure that immigrants are treated with respect and dignity guaranteed to all persons equally in the U.S.
One has to wonder if Mahony has "privately" directed his flock to disobey mandated reporting laws relating to sex abuse crimes committed against innocent children based on "religious" freedom, especially when his Archdiocese spends $500,000 a month for PR and legal fees to avoid public disclosures that the civil lawsuits have revealed.
Debby Bodkin, Founder
www.catholics4justice.com
***************
March 16, 2006
Orange County Board of Supervisors
10 Civic Center Plaza
Santa Ana, California
Attn: Messrs. Correa, Silva, Campbell, Norby and Wilson
Re: Agenda – March 21, 2006 – Item #27 – Objection
Submitted 3/16/06, and Public Comment Submitted
3/16/06 – Mayer Brown Rowe & Mawe
Gentlemen:
On March 16, 2006, I submitted comments via the OC Board of Supervisors’ public website and stated an explanation letter would follow via facsimile before the Noon cutoff on Friday, March 17, 2006. As a citizen of Orange County, Catholic mother and public advocate in the Survivors of those Abused by Priests (SNAP), I submit the concerns below in the interests of justice and the protections of children.
Objection to Agenda Item #27:
In accordance with the State Bar of California Rules 1-120, 3-210, 3-300, 3-310 and 5-220, the law firm of Stradling, Yocca, Carlson & Rauth appears to have a “conflict of interest” in contracting with the County of Orange, as follows:
1. Julie Porter, a partner in the firm of Stradling Yocca (Exhibit A), is a member of the Orange Finance Council to the Diocese of Orange (Exhibit B). In her capacity as a member of the Council, she acted as an advisor to the Bishop of Orange as shown in “Parish Autonomy, Controls and Reporting” (Exhibit C). Unfortunately, Ms. Porter’s dual roles as an attorney at law and advisor to the Diocese of Orange may have failed to address the potential conflicts of interest now pending before the County of Orange and the Diocese of Orange described below.
2. Since on or about November 2002, Ms. Porter “monitored” the civil litigation entitled Michael R. Bodkin v. Diocese of Orange, OCSC Case No. 02CC14265, before the Honorable Dennis Choate. As a licensed attorney at law and in her role as an advisor, Ms. Porter never addressed the potential conflict of interest to the Court, Judge Choate, the County of Orange or the Diocese of Orange based on the fact the defense counsel in the Bodkin litigation, Albert Ballog, Sullivan, Struck & Ballog, also represents the County of Orange, the OC Sheriff’s Dept. and the LA Catholic Archdiocese, simultaneously (Exhibit D).
3. In the past, the OC District Attorney and the OC Sheriff have refused to prosecute or investigate sex abuse crimes committed by Catholic priests and lay employees within the Diocese of Orange. Both government agencies have also failed to prosecute or investigate failures to report violations of the Gun Free Schools Act of 2000 (the subject of the Bodkin litigation) in addition to failures to report sex abuse crimes committed against precious children.
As a public advocate in the Survivors of those Abused by Priests (SNAP) organization, it is imperative that the protections of children and those who protect them are placed at the highest level of priority in the management of government law enforcement and the legal communities. Although the Diocese of Orange settled 87 lawsuits for approximately $100 million in December 2004, please be aware that the sexual predatory employees who molested precious children have escaped prosecution and will never have to register as sex offenders. This is a public safety concern.
In addition, to date there are several employees within the Diocese of Orange who have assisted in the cover-ups and failures to report violations of the law relating to sex abuse crimes and school zone violence. Both the OC District Attorney and the OC Sheriff have failed to investigate and/or prosecute crimes relating to failures to protect children. The retaining of Ms. Porter’s law firm only further complicates any and all appearances of impropriety and/or conflict of interest at this time.
For the reasons stated above, it is my opinion that the firm of Stradling Yocca Carlson & Rauth should be disqualified from acting as counsel on behalf of the County of Orange until all conflicts of interest and/or appearances of impropriety are resolved.
Lastly, as mentioned in my letter of December 3, 2005 (Exhibit E), the County retained the firm of Mayer Brown Rowe & Maw. The OC Republican GOP Chairman, Scott Baugh, is a partner in the Mayer Brown firm (Exhibit F) BUT the California State Bar records show Mr. Baugh as a member of the firm of Manatt Phelps, in Sacramento, California (Exhibit G). The press has recently reported that Mr. Baugh is supervising the OC Registrar of Voters relating to possible inconsistencies and concerns. In my opinion, both the County of Orange and Mr. Baugh have an ethical responsibility to provide accurate public disclosures to avoid the appearance of conflicts of interest and or impropriety. Based on the inaccurate State Bar records of Scott Baugh, it appears Mr. Baugh's current firm may also have a conflict of interest in representing the County of Orange.
To ensure that children and adults are safe in the future from all violations of the law, the boundaries relating to the laws governing separation of Church and State must not be violated and strictly monitored in the future.
Sincerely,
Debby Bodkin, Founder
www.catholics4justice.com
cc: California State Bar of California
*****************
March 4, 2006
Via E-Mail (proposalinfo@clerk@mail.house.gov)
The Honorable Karen L. Haas
Clerk of the U.S. House of Representatives
U.S. Capitol
Room H154
Washington DC 20515-6601
Re: Statement - House Democrats Release - Catholic Statement of Principles
Dear Honorable Haas:
Please extend my sincere gratitude to the U.S. House of Representatives who recently released a public statement expressing their commitment to the dignity of life and belief that government has a "moral purpose" (see attached).
By the release of this public statement, House Representatives have eliminated conflicting assumptions about performance expectations that the public so often places on elected government officials, especially Catholic leaders who now face many challenges relating to decisions and legislation that often blur the boundaries relating to Separation of Church/State.
Information is not communication. Communication is about action and understanding; understanding brings results. The statement of the U.S. Representatives is proof that government leaders understand they are in positions that must bring results in the interests of all Americans, while also incorporating their own personal religious and life core values.
As a Catholic mother in California, with passion supporting legislation nationwide that would allow victims of past clergy sex abuses their day in court, this recent statement by representatives in the U.S. House has renewed my faith and admiration for the continuing challenges of elected government officials.
California's 2003 Sex Abuse Law has communicated to the world the seriousness of the past mistakes and non-protections of precious children and others from abuses. California's legislation took action and the results provide history for others to observe and/or take action.
When government leaders listen and understand the importance of taking action in the interests of all Americans, it is a gift.
My best to all elected government leaders who hold the destiny of our country's freedoms and the protections of precious children in their hands. Best regards.
Debby Bodkin, Founder
www.catholics4justice.com
bodkind@Hotmail.com
******************
March 1, 2006
WASHINGTON, D.C. - A majority of Catholic Democrats in the U.S. House led by Congresswoman Rosa L. DeLauro (Conn.-3) today released a statement of principles. Signed by 55 House Democrats, the statement documents how their faith influences them as lawmakers, making clear their commitment to the basic principles at the heart of Catholic social teaching and their bearing on policy - whether it is increasing access to education for all or pressing for real health care reform, taking seriously the decision to go to war, or reducing poverty. Above all, the document expresses the signers' commitment to the dignity of life and their belief that government has moral purpose.
The full text of the statement and the complete list of signers follow.
STATEMENT OF PRINCIPLES
By Fifty-Five Catholic Democrats in the U.S. House of Representatives
As Catholic Democrats in Congress, we are proud to be part of the living Catholic tradition -- a tradition that promotes the common good, expresses a consistent moral framework for life and highlights the need to provide a collective safety net to those individuals in society who are most in need. As legislators, in the U.S. House of Representatives, we work every day to advance respect for life and the dignity of every human being. We believe that government has moral purpose.
We are committed to making real the basic principles that are at the heart of Catholic social teaching: helping the poor and disadvantaged, protecting the most vulnerable among us, and ensuring that all Americans of every faith are given meaningful opportunities to share in the blessings of this great country. That commitment is fulfilled in different ways by legislators but includes: reducing the rising rates of poverty; increasing access to education for all; pressing for increased access to health care; and taking seriously the decision to go to war. Each of these issues challenges our obligations as Catholics to community and helping those in need.
We envision a world in which every child belongs to a loving family and agree with the Catholic Church about the value of human life and the undesirability of abortion B we do not celebrate its practice. Each of us is committed to reducing the number of unwanted pregnancies and creating an environment with policies that encourage pregnancies to be carried to term. We believe this includes promoting alternatives to abortion, such as adoption, and improving access to children=s healthcare and child care, as well as policies that encourage paternal and maternal responsibility.
In all these issues, we seek the Church=s guidance and assistance but believe also in the primacy of conscience. In recognizing the Church's role in providing moral leadership, we acknowledge and accept the tension that comes with being in disagreement with the Church in some areas. Yet we believe we can speak to the fundamental issues that unite us as Catholics and lend our voices to changing the political debate -- a debate that often fails to reflect and encompass the depth and complexity of these issues.
As legislators, we are charged with preserving the Constitution, which guarantees religious freedom for all Americans. In doing so, we guarantee our right to live our own lives as Catholics, but also foster an America with a rich diversity of faiths. We believe the separation of church and state allows for our faith to inform our public duties.
As Catholic Democrats who embrace the vocation and mission of the laity as expressed by Pope John Paul II in his Apostolic Exhortation, Christifideles Laici, we believe that the Church is the "people of God," called to be a moral force in the broadest sense. We believe the Church as a community is called to be in the vanguard of creating a more just America and world. And as such, we have a claim on the Church's bearing as it does on ours.
Rosa L. DeLauro, David R. Obey, Wm. Lacy Clay, Hilda L. Solis, James R. Langevin, Bart Stupak, Anna Eshoo, Bill Pascrell, Gene Taylor, Raul M. Grijalva, Carolyn McCarthy, John B. Larsonk, Ed Pastor, Joe Baca, William Delahunt, Tim Ryan, Silvestre Reyes, Mike Thompson, Linda T. Sanchez, Charles A. Gonzalez, Xavier Becerra, Diane Watson, Michael H. Michaud, Nydia Velazquez, Jim Marshall, Frank Pallone, John T. Salazar, James P. McGovern, George Miller, Tim Holden, James L. Oberstar, Dale E. Kildee, Patrick J. Kennedy, Cynthia McKinney, James P. Moran, Michael Capuano, Richard E. Neal, Mike Doyle, Peter A. DeFazio, Maurice Hinchey, Dennis A. Cardoza, Joseph Crowley, Jim Costa, Lucille Roybal-Allard, Loretta Sanchez,
Robert Brady, Marty Meehan, Grace Napolitano, Luis V. Gutierrez, Jose Serrano, Stephen Lynch, Edward J. Markey, Nancy Pelosi, Lane Evans
**********************
February 17, 2006
Senator Feinstein
Dear Mrs. Bodkin:
Thank you for writing to me about recent revelations that the United States Government has engaged in domestic electronic eavesdropping without appropriate legal authority. I welcome the opportunity to respond.
On February 6th, the Senate Judiciary Committee held the first of a series of hearings into this matter, at which Attorney General Alberto Gonzales testified about the legality of the program. He provided none of the documents the Committee required for proper oversight, and his assurances alone did not allay my concerns. Instead, he propounded a radical legal theory of presidential power largely unrestrained by either Congress or the courts.
I have carefully reviewed the Constitution and the laws relating to this domestic intelligence activity, along with the President's statements and those of the Attorney General and other Administration officials. I believe that the electronic surveillance program was not conducted in accordance with U.S. law. The program, as described, violates the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act, which requires a court order for surveillance of Americans.
Congress has updated FISA many times since 9/11 in order to provide our nation with all the necessary tools to fight terrorism. The Administration has never asked for the authority to conduct this program.
I believe the Administration also violated the National Security Act, which requires all members of the Intelligence Committee to be fully and currently informed of all significant intelligence activities other than covert actions. I am a member of the Intelligence Committee, and yet I was not told about this program until it was made public.
There will be further hearings in the Senate Judiciary and Intelligence Committees. Once the facts are clear, we can decide on appropriate corrective action. Again, thank you for writing. I hope that you will continue to write to me on issues of importance to you. Best regards.
Sincerely yours,
Dianne Feinstein
United States Senator
----------------------------------------------------
February 14, 2006
Congressman Stark
Dear Mrs. Bodkin:
Thank you for contacting me about your opposition to President Bush's order authorizing warrantless domestic surveillance of Americans. We agree! The American people would never accept police breaking into their house without a warrant, and breaking into their phone lines or e-mails is equally unacceptable.
The Fourth Amendment to the Constitution reads: "The right of the people to be secure in their persons, houses, papers, and effects, against unreasonable searches and seizures, shall not be violated, and no warrants shall issue, but upon probable cause, supported by Oath or affirmation, and particularly describing the place to be searched, and the persons or things to be seized."
Although the President doesn't seem to understand this, there is no exception for a time of war or because Dick Cheney said it was a good idea. Realizing the urgent nature of some national security investigations, federal law permits wiretaps without warrants in emergencies as long as court approval is obtained within three days.
Since 1978, when the law was enacted, more than 10,000 national security warrants have been approved by the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act Court. Only four have been turned down. The only reasonable explanation for bypassing the Court is that the Administration's spying is improper and would not have been approved.
This illegal order by the President must be investigated and articles of impeachment seriously considered. Un- fortunately, the Republican Majority has done nothing about torture, broken treaties, or going to war on false pretenses, and I have no faith that they will start doing their job now.
I am a cosponsor of legislation directing the President to rescind his illegal order and I have signed a letter with my colleagues informing him that he has no Congressional authority to conduct warrantless surveillance.
Unfortunately, when the President declares that he is above the law, there is ultimately no way to ensure that this activity ceases short of removing him from office. I have called for a special committee to consider articles
of impeachment, but nothing can happen until a few brave Republicans uphold their Oath to defend the Constitution.
Sincerely,
Pete Stark
Member of Congress
FHS/sem
Confirmation # 273265
I cannot guarantee the integrity of this message. If this message has been forwarded it may have been modified from its original content.
----------------------------------------------------
February 6, 2006
Senators Feinstein, Kennedy, Kerry & U.S. Congress
Re: NSA Investigation
Dear Senators Feinstein, Kennedy, Kerry & U.S. Congress Representatives for California:
Thank you for all your leadership in protecting the CIVIL LIBERTIES of Americans. You have restored faith and trust that many citizens have lost because of your public courage to speak out to protect everyone equally -- not just the politically connected, wealthy and corporate interests.
Please confirm in the NSA investigation that U.S. citizens will not be wiretapped or placed under electronic surveillance for receiving "UNSOLICITED" emails from out-of-the country. I have received several "suspicious" emails from out of the country and fear being labeled as a "threat", which would allow the NSA to invade upon the privacy of myself and my family.
I am an advocate for legislation nationwide to allow clergy sex abuse victims to seek civil justice in a court of law, in addition to "Whistleblower" protections for employees and citizens. Since my public advocacy and website launching (www.catholics4justice.com), my life has changed drastically.
Thank you for what you do to protect the rights in our country. May God bless you and keep you safe always.
Debby Bodkin, Founder
www.catholics4justice.com
************************
February 18, 2006
Dear Senator Feinstein and Congressman Stark:
Thank you for your responses to my concerns communicated to you on February 5, 2006.
More importantly, thank you for assuming value in the opinions of those you represent and for rebuilding the public's trust in government leaders!!!
Best regards.
Debby Bodkin, Founder
*************************
July 15, 2005
State Attorney Generals (email)
Dear State Attorney General:
This letter is to notify your offices that I have launched a public website by the name of www.catholics4justice.com on July 15, 2005. The website is a non-profit online resource tool focusing on the protections of children and those who protect them. During the past 4 years, my family and I have faced pesonal challenges dealing with the Roman Catholic Diocese of Orange, in Orange County, California. We are not victims of clergy sex abuse. However, our fight to seek due process and protections of the law were poorly timed and took place in the midst of the Catholic sex abuse scandals that erupted in June 2002. It is from my personal experiences that the concept of www.catholics4justice.com has evolved, which are explained in detail on the website.
Please be advised that although Catholic Bishops have made progress in the implementation of policies that will protect children from clergy sex abuse crimes in the future, in my opinion, it is not enough. Therefore, I respectfully submit for your consideration the following facts and www.catholics4justice.com. Please audit the business and employment practices of the Catholic Dioceses in your State to ensure that children will be safe in the years ahead.
FACTS:
1. Crimes of clergy sex abuse have been committed against children for many years, without legal or moral accountability.
2. The business and employment practices, also referred to as the "cultures" of the Roman Catholic Church, may have negligently been managed by those in "supervisory" or "legal advisor" roles, retained as employees by Catholic Bishops.
3. The employees of the Church, are also "mandated reporters". It is my belief that employees may easily be intimidated because of the financial hardships that the sex abuse scandals have placed on Catholic Dioceses. Based on my personal experiences, Catholic employees most likely do not have legal protections because of term renewal contracts and the "at will" employment laws. It may be that "scandal prevention" and "minimizing civil damages" are still priorities. Civil litigation is always an option -- but it is worse than suing the tobacco companies because of the separation of Church and State.
Please take whatever steps necessary to ensure that Catholic Dioceses in your State are compliant in all areas of the law. In addition, please support whatever efforts to assist State legislators in lifting the statute of limitations for a period of one year, to allow victims of clergy sex abuse civil remedies that have been denied because of expirations of statute of limitations. California's 2003 Sex Abuse Law has led the nation in child protections. It is my hope that all Californians will someday understand the service to the general public that State legislators have provided to precious children and their families.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me via email or phone. Thank you for your consideration.
Debby Bodkin, Founder
www.catholics4justice.com
cc: California Attorney General
***************************
August 22, 2005 (email)
President George W. Bush
Vice-President Dick Cheney
The White House
1600 Pennsylvania Avenue N.W.
Washington, DC 20500
Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger
State Capitol Building
Sacramento, CA 95814
California Attorney General Bill Lockyer
California Department of Justice
P.O. Box 944255
Sacramento, CA 94244
Re: PROTECTIONS OF CHILDREN -
POLITICAL AND RELIGIOUS INFLUENCES
Gentlemen:
My name is Debby Bodkin, aka Debby Bartholomew-Bodkin. I grew up in a traditional Catholic/Christian home in Orange County, California and learned at a very young age that "money and power" should never be a tool to buy one's happiness and admittance into heaven. We were always taught to work hard at home, school and employment, expecting at all times we would be morally and legally responsible for our actions at all times.
As a Catholic, I learned that there were many ways to contribute to society and our faith through the concept of donating one's Time, Treasure and/or Talents. My choices to contribute to my community of Catholicism and family centered on donations utilizing my Time and Talents, versus Treasures.
God never blessed me with an abundance of Treasures, but he blessed me with wonderful parents, sister, a husband, three daughters, Nicole, Rachel and Laurel, and a stepson, Brent, who was given to me much later in life. My family was also blessed with the gifts provided to all Americans, the gifts of a public and/or Catholic school education, gifts that should never be taken for granted at any time. At age 50 years old, and in my role as a Catholic wife and mother, I find myself struggling daily with understanding the core values of Catholicism and being an American citizen in Orange County, California.
My struggles began when I exercised my rights to freedoms of speech and press and after my marriage to Mike Bodkin, a Catholic school teacher within the Diocese of Orange, in Orange County, California, who is fighting for justice in a wrongful termination lawsuit now pending in the Orange County Superior Court. I created a website entitled www.catholics4justice.com to focus my energies and frustrations in our fight for justice, in assisting SNAP (Survivors of those Abused by Priests) and Diocesan employees, parents, teachers, coaches and administrators, as mandated reporters.
As Americans, Catholics, Christians or atheists, we are guaranteed certain rights relating to freedoms of religion, political affiliations, speech, press and opinion. Until recently, I never realized how closely intertwined religion and politics have been for many years and in Orange County, it appears that the Republican and/or Catholic influences over-power Orange County's moral, spiritual and legal existence in many ways.
Since the eruption of the Catholic sex abuse scandals in 2001 (in Orange County and nationwide), many painful facts have been revealed relating to the political and religious influences in O.C. and other U.S. communities. It appears as a Society, we have somehow failed to protect precious children from sex abuses and other dangers.
This letter is not to point a finger at any one religion or political party, but is an attempt to use Orange County's religious and political influences in government agencies to understand the dangers that exist when the failures to protect children and adults, are related to religious and/or political motivations, without legal and moral accountability, from government officials.
With Orange County being one of the most affluent, educated, safe and climate-friendly places to live in the U.S., how could precious children be sexually abused for so many years, without criminal prosecutions? Why would so many employees of the county's district attorney's office, the county's agency responsible for prosecuting crimes in O.C., be plagued with employee fear and allegations of employer misconduct, each time a report of unfair treatment or political favors are made within the O.C. District Attorney's workplace?
Most recently, the Diocese of Orange led the nation (with the exception of Boston's settlement of $85 million), in sex abuse lawsuit settlements in the amount of $100 million. As part of that settlement, personnel records released on May 17, 2005 revealed that somewhere along the way, political and religious powers may have interfered with the protections of over 87 precious children, from sex abuse crimes committed by employees of the Diocese of Orange.
As Americans, we are all free to contribute to our religious and political preferences utilizing Time, Talent or Treasures. We are also all free to exercise our rights to freedom of speech, press and opinion in and out of the workplace, without fear of political or religious retaliations. Somehow, Orange County's political, religious and government agencies' checks and balances are out of sync and the Diocese of Orange's settlement of $100 million, combined with the scandals that have plagued the O.C. District Attorney and O.C. Sheriff Departments since 1998, are proof of a serious problem.
In consideration of the information herein, I respectfully request the following:
1. An analysis be conducted using the information relating to the crimes of sex abuse committed by Catholic priests and lay employees in Orange County, California, with the intent to use the findings as a resource to aid in the protections of children in O.C. and nationwide.
2. An analysis be conducted using the information relating to Diocese of Orange employees, priests and legal advisors who participated in the cover up crimes of sex abuse and who failed to provide business and employment reporting policies within the Diocesan workplace to mandated reporters, which allowed crimes against children to continue for many years.
3. An analysis be conducted using the information relating to the O.C. District Attorney's decision not to prosecute Michael Harris, the former principal of Santa Margarita Catholic High School, for crimes relating to sex abuse, with the intent of determining whether the decision not to prosecute Michael Harris, were based on political or religious influences from the OC Republican GOP and/or the Roman Catholic Diocese of Orange. This occurred on or about early 2001.
It is my sincere belief that the information relating to the Diocese of Orange's settlement of $100 million, combined with the disclosure of personnel records on May 17, 2005, could lead to an invaluable analysis that would aid in the protections of children not only in O.C. but nationwide.
Any analysis would also support the need for other states to implement legislation similar to California's 2003 Sex Abuse Law, which will lift the statute of limitations for a period of one year, to allow all victims of childhood sex abuses, to seek civil due process in a court of law.
As Americans, we are leading the world in fighting a war against terrorism and it is imperative that we guarantee the rights to due process, freedoms of speech, press, opinion and protections of children from all dangers at the highest priority, during our world fight against terrorism.
Respectfully submitted,
Debby Bodkin, Founder
www.catholics4justice.com
Email: bodkind@hotmail.com
info@catholics4justice.com
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August 30, 2005 (email)
Governor Jeb Bush
400 S. Monroe Street
The Capitol
Tallahassee, FL 32399
Charlie Crist
Florida Attorney General
Tallahassee, FL 32399-1050
(Fax: (850) 410-1630)
Re: Florida Whistleblower Protections and
The Protections of Children & Adults
Gentlemen:
I recently read an article regarding Rev. Andrew Dowgiert’s lawsuit against the Archdiocese of Miami being dismissed on August 25, 2005, stating the court did not want to get involved in a Church dispute (see enclosed article marked as #1). This recent court ruling, until overturned by an appellate court, poses serious dangers relating to the protections of children, adults and employees who attend schools and churches in Florida.
As government leaders and attorneys, you are fully aware that “Whistleblower” protections for all citizens are non-negotiable and are the basis for maintaining the protections of children and adults from violations of the law. As a Catholic mother and supporter in the SNAP (Survivors of those Abused by Priests), I have a full understanding relating to the Catholic clergy sex abuse scandals nationwide. It is my sincere belief that without “Whistleblower” protections in the Church environments, children will never be safe from sex abuse crimes or other potential dangers. Priests, teachers, coaches and administrators, employed by a religious or non-profit organization must be protected from retaliation in the event a crime of abuse is reported by a mandated reporter.
Therefore, I am respectfully requesting that on behalf of the People of the State of Florida, you immediately investigate the policies and procedures within the Archdiocese of Miami to ensure workplace compliance relating to federal whistleblower protection laws.
I have included a copy of a letter I have sent to Archbishop William Levada regarding “Whistleblower” protections in Catholic Diocesan workplaces and the response received from his office (attached as #2).
Thank you for your prompt consideration and investigation relating to the protections of children, adults and mandated reporters.
Debby Bodkin, Founder
www.Catholics4Justice.com
cc: Archbishop William J. Levada, c/o Rev. Steven J. Lopes, STD, Father Anibal Morales
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** GOVERNOR JEB BUSH
September 25, 2005
To: "Debby Bodkin"
Subject: RE: Florida Whistleblower Laws & Protections of Children
Governor Bush has received your e-mail and has asked me to respond on his behalf. I am unsure from your e-mail how the Governor's Office can assist you. Please feel free to give me a call and I will help you in any way I can.
Sincerely,
Rex T. Newman
Citizens' Services
*******************
September 28, 2005
Governor Jeb Bush Response
Dear Governor Jeb Bush and Mr. Newman:
Thank you very much for responding to my communications sent to Governor Bush's attention relating to Rev. Andrew Dowgiert, a Florida Whistleblower. I apologize if the purpose of my first communication was not properly communicated to you initially. Therefore, I am hoping this communication will clarify and confirm my concerns relating to Whistleblower protections and the importance of protecting children, vulnerable adults and those who protect them, as many refer to as Whistleblowers.
Attached is the article relating to Rev. Andrew Dowgiert and his "Whistleblower" lawsuit against the Archdiocese of Miami which was recently dismissed in a Florida court. This is the article that prompted my first communication to Governor Bush.
As the Catholic sex abuse scandals have revealed, government, political and religious organizations and leaders have failed to protect precious children from sex abuse crimes for many years. It is the persistent public outcry and courage of sex abuse victims that have brought the non-protections of children and the need to protect them at all costs, into the public forum. This is now Society's problem to fix.
In addition to Rev. Dowgiert's Whistleblower circumstances, I have also attached another "Whistleblower" article relating to Michael Wallace, a former Customs Agent in Florida, who recently passed away, may God bless him. As evidenced, Mr. Wallace also chose to do the right thing as a Florida Whistleblower. Tragically, retaliations followed that led to Mr. Wallace to losing his home, family, job and security, before his death at such a young age.
As Governor of Florida, there are now two recent stories relating to the non-protections of Whistleblowers in Florida. It is my hope that an investigation into the matters described herein will lead to proactive government leadership in the interests of the safety of children and citizens in Florida. If this type of investigation does not fall within Governor Bush's responsibilities, please forward this communication and articles to the proper government and/or law enforcement authorities in Florida for review and corrective action.
If mandated reporters and others who protect children from sex crimes and violations of the law are not protected from retaliations, children and adults will never be safe from crimes and/or other violations of the law. In my opinion, this is a serious public safety concern in Florida.
If you have any questions concerning the two articles, please feel free to contact any of the authors of the articles. Thank you for your consideration.
Respectfully submitted,
Debby Bodkin, Founder, www.catholics4justice
LETTERS TO EDITORS:
OC Register - June 4, 2006
Children pay the price for church's refusal to uphold law
In response to the article, "Judge rules against Mater Dei" [Local, May 26]: As an O.C. Catholic wife and mother, I find there is no way to "spin" or "manipulate" the intent of our country's laws relating to the protections of children from sex-abuse crimes and other dangers.
Attorneys take an oath to uphold laws, with ethics and good faith. The legal advisers for the Diocese of Orange and bishops nationwide obviously believe that public claims of "misstating" legal arguments will somehow "spin" the truths so that the faithful Catholics will continue to support the causes of the church and the high price of the failure to protect precious children and those who protect them, as whistleblowers.
Freedom of religion does not include sex-abuse crimes against children, cover-ups of the crimes, failures to report the crimes and legal abuses of our country's court system. If immediate corrective action does not occur within the business and employment practices of the Catholic Church and other private institutions, children and adults will never be safe.
If I were a bishop, my first priority would be to demand moral, legal and financial accountability from the many legal advisers who have "misstated" our country's laws to me, through legal advice and court battles, that lead to monetary civil and court damages nationwide.
Debby Bodkin
Aliso Viejo
founder www.catholics4justice.com
**********
Posted: www.mediamatters.org
May 12, 2006
NSA Must Be Accountable to "Checks & Balances"
Protecting Americans from threats and acts of terrorism requires a system of "checks and balances" and accountability in all branches of government, law enforcement and the NSA.
There could be serious violations of privacy if the NSA database of phone numbers gets into the hands of an abusive and/or self-serving political, government or religious leader or institution.
Once the NSA database turns to a political tool -- the protections of Americans from terrorism and privacy breaches becomes secondary -- this is a serious civil rights violation and the public deserves to know the truth.
Has the NSA phone number database been violated by any person in authority within the NSA or other government law enforcement agency?
If an abuse has occurred within the NSA, has the "crime" been addressed through civil or criminal sanctions? and,
Finally, if there has been a violation of privacy laws within the NSA telelphone number database, will Americans find out about the breach from the media, the NSA or President Bush?
- DebbyBodkin / Friday May 12, 2006 11:43:41 PM EST
(http://mediamatters.org/items/200605120018)
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** BOSTON GLOBE
February 9, 2006
"Church's Education Woes Start With Treatment of Employees"
As a Catholic married to a former Catholic school teacher and as a mother with children who have attended Catholic schools and colleges, I believe Catholic education is a gift to the communities of Catholicism. (''Archdiocese seeks new ideas, students," Globe North, Feb. 5). When will bishops and Catholic leaders get the message?
Instead of providing Catholic employees with respect, dignity, and decent health benefits, the Catholic workplace is full of intimidation and fear. How many Catholic employees live in fear of losing benefits, employment, and pensions since the eruption of the clergy sex abuse scandals? How many employees have not had contracts renewed after making a report of abuse or violation of the law?
Once Catholic leaders realize that the Church can rebuild and renew the lost faithful by simply treating those they employ with respect and dignity, Catholic education will be the core of the Church, and strategies seeking new ideas and students will no longer be necessary.
Debby Bodkin, Founder
www.catholics4justice.com
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** LOS ANGELES TIMES
May 23, 2005
"Diocese of Orange Still Must Clean Its House"
Re Dana Parsons' column, "Diocesan Files Show Deceit, Denial," May 20: Bishop Tod Brown has led the Diocese of Orange to the halfway mark to reconciliation and healing for sex-abuse victims, their families and Orange County Catholics.
The last half of Brown's journey may be the toughest. The truth is now out and the sex-abuse cases have been settled.
The final chapter is the demanding of accountability from diocesan legal advisors and employees who aided in the cover-ups and obstructions of justice, and who are still employed by the diocese, while escaping criminal charges. Until this occurs, Brown's "covenant with the faithful" is meaningless.
Until Brown cleans his house, children will not be safe from dangers, sex-abuse victims cannot heal and struggling Catholics will remain just that, struggling.
We can only pray that Los Angeles Cardinal Roger Mahony, bishops, diocesan officials and elected government leaders throughout California and the U.S. are learning from the painful history of the Diocese of Orange.
Without California's 2003 sex-abuse law, none of these events would have occurred. It is time for other government leaders to lead their states in legislation lifting the statutes of limitations for civil lawsuits nationwide.
Debby Bartholomew-Bodkin
Aliso Viejo
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** OC WEEKLY
November 5, 2004
"GOOD CATHOLICS"
Thank you for "The Worst Things Yelled at a Catholic Sex-Abuse Survivor" [The Best of OC, Oct. 22]. I am not a victim of clergy sex abuse but am a Catholic who passionately supports the victims of abuse who are seeking justice and healing. For any Catholic who does not believe the hurtful statements some Catholics make to victims of abuse... This summer, I learned firsthand that many Catholics want victims to keep quiet and out of sight; it’s easier for them to go on with their lives that way, pretending all this destruction to innocent children did not take place. The behavior of fellow Catholics—turning their backs on victims—breaks my heart. If it weren’t for the victims’ efforts, the protection of children from clergy abuse would continue to be at risk. I’m thankful that victims share the passion for children’s safety to continue their efforts. God bless them.
Debby Bodkin
Aliso Viejo
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** ORANGE COUNTY REGISTER
May 19, 2005
Clergy scandal: The data are devastating, the details shocking
The information made public about the Roman Catholic Church sex-abuse cases is shocking ["Second chances," Front Page, May 18]. (www.ocregister.com)
As a Catholic mother who has raised children in Orange County since 1983, and whose children also attended several Catholic schools, I have no words to describe much of what has been released in these documents. Apologies from bishops, the $100 million settlement and the release of the personnel records are historic steps forward in the healing and reconciliation for clergy-abuse victims and Catholics in Orange County
God bless the courageous victims of clergy sex abuse. The release of the personnel records is proof that God is on their side in fighting against these horrific crimes. But where were church "legal advisers" while all these heinous crimes were being covered up and justice obstructed?
Attorneys are the first to be consulted by bishops. Bishops are not attorneys, and attorneys take oaths to uphold all laws of our land, especially protecting children from crimes of sex abuse.
In my opinion, any legal advisers in Orange County or anywhere in the United States who assist or have assisted a Roman Catholic bishop in covering up heinous crimes committed against children should never get a second chance to abuse the authority bestowed upon them as attorneys.
Debby Bartholomew-Bodkin
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** ORANGE COUNTY REGISTER
September 25, 2005
"Diocese of Orange Still in Denial"
It is unfortunate that the Diocese of Orange chose to publicly downplay the largest clergy sex-abuse settlement in the country by launching a press release announcing that a debt of $100 million will be paid off in a year's time. In my opinion, the Diocese of Orange should be publicly launching support for the many Catholics and diocesan employees who have made this reduction in debt possible.
In my opinion, children will never be safe from sex-abuse crimes or other dangers in the Diocese of Orange until written "whistle-blower" policies are provided to diocesan employees who report violations of the law committed against children, adults and employees. As long as employees fear employment loss or adverse employment decisions, no one within the Diocese of Orange is safe from sex-abuse crimes or potential dangers.
I am still waiting for a written policy from Bishop Brown, if any exists, which I requested in April 2004.
Debby Bodkin, Founder
www.catholics4justice.com
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** ORANGE COUNTY REGISTER
March 10, 2004
"Letters - How can we hold church hierarchy accountable?"
Editorial, "Zero tolerance for lax church leaders" [March 5], saddens my heart as a Roman Catholic. The sexual molestation scandals and lawsuits are just the beginning of the problems and only symptoms of the abuse-of-power culture that exists within the Diocese of Orange.
As soon as the public relations firms put out the fires from the sexual molestation scandals and Lent and the "Covenant with the Faithful" have passed, the church officials' abuse of power will continue. Diocesan officials continue to protect the diocese from public scandal or assist in minimizing civil damages. And they are employed for life without accountability.
The policies to protect children from sexual molestation may be posted on the Diocese of Orange Web site, but who is answering the hot line or investigating the reports? Can they be trusted?
The real question is whether a policy is in place that educates Catholic children, families and workers on how to report any type of abuse in the event the public relations Web site and sexual molestation hot lines are monitored by someone who covers up or interferes with an initial report. Then what?
Debby Bodkin
Aliso Viejo
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** PORTSMOUTH HERALD (New Hampshire)
June 13, 2005
"Pupils displayed Catholic values"
As a Catholic mother of children who attended Catholic schools in Orange County, Calif., thank you for "Bishop fails to learn lesson from students," and specifically, to the sincere showing of Catholic social teachings exhibited by the seniors at the Catholic high school.
To the students and to their parents, thank you for stepping up to the plate and voicing morality and values that will no doubt be heard throughout the United States.
We can only pray that the bishops attending the U.S. Bishop’s Conference in Chicago will bring this public message sent by sincere Catholic high school seniors with them in mind and soul. At one time, Catholicism stood for the values and teachings exhibited by the high school students, and the Bishops need to closely examine their repeated mistakes and stonewalling of those young Catholic adults, who will soon be the leaders of the Catholic Church.
Debby Bartholomew-Bodkin
Aliso Viejo, Calif.
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** WWW.UNSPUN.MITHURO.COM
May 29, 2005
Response to "Pope Faked Child Abuse Investigation"
If what has been written is true about the "faking" of a Vatican investigation that was purportedly opened in December, 2004 into the sex abuse allegations relating to Marcial Maciel, "force" demanding accountability from the Catholic hierarchy may only be possible in the U.S.A. and those countries who guarantee due process rights to all persons equally.
It is now the responsibility of each state Attorney General in the USA to open investigations so that the due process rights denied to any victims of clergy sex abuse, can be returned to the unsuspecting victims. Until this is done and enforced, heinous crimes relating to children will continue to be covered up by members of the Catholic hierarchy and precious children and their families will never be able to live with the rights that have been guaranteed to all Americans.
Thank you to all the victims of sex abuse, their families and the tenacious journalists who have brought exposures to the public. Without their courage, the Catholic hierarchy would only continue to abuse their power and authority, hiding behind the teachings of the Catholic Church.
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** ORANGE COUNTY REGISTER
August 6, 2005
Patrick Wall found a personal way to answer the scandals with his own personal holiness, fighting for the return of due process and equal protections of the law denied to victims of clergy sex abuse and their families for many years.
In my opinion, it is disgraceful that bishops, Roman Catholic leaders and diocesan attorneys nationwide are allowed to continue legal stonewalling.
These tactics have destroyed the lives of many innocent children and their families. It is time to put our children first.
Debby Bodkin
founder, www.Catholics4Justice.com
(In response to article about Patrick Wall...after 11 years as a Benedictine monk - six as a priest - he had renounced his vows and left St. John's Abbey. Disheartened by sexually abusive monks, restricted by rigid superiors and convinced his vow of celibacy would fail, Wall finally won his freedom from the Rule of Benedict. Mr. Wall now assists clergy sex abuse victims in finding justice and healing).
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** WWW.FREENEWMEXICAN.COM/NEWS
October 31, 2005
Archbishop Levada's appointment as prefect for the Doctrine of Faith, was definitely a positive step in the right direction by the Pope, IF Levada steps up to the plate and uses his experience from the US scandals, to do the right things:
RETURN DUE PROCESS RIGHTS TO ABUSE VICTIMS AND THEIR FAMILIES.
STOP THE LEGAL STONEWALLING - CONSERVE DEFENSE ATTORNEYS' FEES AND COSTS.
START THE HEALING AND REBUILDING OF THE FAITHFUL CATHOLICS WHO HAVE SUPPORTED THE CHURCH THROUGH THESE HORRIFIC CRIMES AND SCANDALS.
A publication stated that the Holy See recently filed a motion to limit Levada's testimony in an upcoming deposition and this sends a RED FLAG!
Catholic Dioceses who file for bankruptcy protections should not also be allowed to manipulate and violate the federal discovery process, by filing meritless motions to limit deposition testimony or other types of judicial delays.
If judicial abuse continues, government leaders nationwide must immediately re-evaluate the tax filing status of Catholic and other religious institutions, who have failed to protect children from sex abuse crimes.
It is time to make educated choices in the interests and safety of the general public. Many anxiously await the important decisions resting in the hands of government and religious leaders nationwide.
Debby Bodkin
http://www.catholics4justice.com
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** WWW.TWISTEDBADGE.COM
May 15, 2005 (Part 12)
"Dear Mr. Mickadeit and Mr. Madigan:
As a reader who diligently reads all of your writings during the past 3 years, with admiration and respect, I felt compelled to respond to today's "It's time to clear the air..." in the O.C. Register. As a non-politically connected 50 year old woman (Sat. is the big 50!), Mr. Mickadeit's attempt to save his reputation truly symbolizes the real dangers in O.C. when persons exercise their constitutional rights to freedom of speech and press. Mr. Madigan has reported corrupt activities in O.C. long before any other journalists in O.C., with maybe the exceptions of the brilliant journalists at the OC Weekly, and the time may be approaching for O.C. readers to take note of those writings during the past 3 years.
I had two letters published in the O.C. Register last year (2004) exercising my rights to freedom of speech and opinion relating to the Catholic sex abuse scandals and alleged workplace issues in the O.C.D.A.'s office. Unfortunately for me, without stating specifics, "life changing" experiences occurred in both instances days after the letters were published in the OC Register. The truth is that in O.C., the rights to free speech and press will be criticized and condemned if those rights are not in accordance with the unwritten rules in O.C., stay politically connected or move out of O.C.
Sincerely,
Debby - Aliso Viejo"
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** ORANGE COUNTY REGISTER
July 29, 2005
"Fired-up over more funds for mismanaged agencies"
I was disgusted to learn that the Orange County Board of Supervisors voted to continue to reward tax dollars to the District Attorney's Office and the Sheriff's Department, which have been consumed in political-corruption and employment-related lawsuits under their current leadership ["Board OKs tax options," Local, July 27].
In private enterprise, most people are rewarded for performance and maintaining budget standards. In O.C., it appears elected government officials will remain unaccountable for wasted tax dollars spent on litigating such lawsuits.
Let's hope that the non-politically connected O.C. firefighters can find support from the voting public. The firefighters truly deserve tax dollars after saving lives and homes from fire devastation year after year. I cannot remember the last time I read about an O.C. firefighter who wasted valuable tax dollars in fighting political corruption and employment-related lawsuits.
Debby Bartholomew-Bodkin
Aliso Viejo
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** ORANGE COUUNTY REGISTER
July 5, 2005
"A public-service stint"
I was sorry to learn that opinion columns editor Chris Reed will be leaving O.C. journalism ["Veterans depart, irrelevance continues," Local, July 1]. Chris has contributed to the education of the O.C. community. His honest and ethical reporting and opinions, even when the subject matter has been controversial or not considered politically correct by O.C. government/political communities, have truly been a public service that will be missed. Best regards to him and his family in his new venture.
Debby Bartholomew-Bodkin
Aliso Viejo
Editor's note: Chris Reed is now an editorial writer for the San Diego Union-Tribune. We'll miss him, but we're sure he'll be working to keep San Diego officials on their toes.
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** ORANGE COUNTY REGISTER
October 28, 2004
I applaud Mike Clesceri's public statement and the Register for printing it ["Medical condition, disability claim both legit," Oct. 25]. It appears that Clesceri was a victim of "workplace stress" that resulted after he participated in what he thought was "doing the right thing."
Due process and equal protection are rights guaranteed to all Americans, and, in Clesceri's situation, the retirement he will receive is part of this right.
Anyone who complains about the $58,000-a-year pension should look deeper into what led to his retirement as an investigator for the District Attorney's Office and the reasons leading to the stress.
Thank you to Clesceri for making a decision to "do the right thing." Unfortunately, doing the right thing sometimes carries consequences that have long-lasting criticisms. Your retirement pension and your right to make a public statement regarding the gossip circulating is a blessing. It takes courage to "do the right thing" in today's workplace.
Debby Bodkin
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** OC WEEKLY
June 24, 2005
"COXIS"
Thanks to OC Weekly once again for the coverage relating to Chris Cox’s pending appointment as chair of the SEC [web exclusive, “Cox By the Numbers,” June 9]. It just doesn’t make sense for President Bush to nominate a politically connected OC Republican for a high-ranking position when the OC political scene—Sheriff’s Department, district attorney and GOP—have been so heavily involved in connections with institutions and individuals surrounded by controversy and potential corruptions for the past few years. Isn’t there someone else that could fit the president’s SEC chairman appointment who can come into the responsibilities with a clean slate?
Debby Bartholomew-Bodkin
Aliso Viejo, CA
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Submitted to OC Register
April 11, 2006
Dear Editor and Ms. Lowe:
In response to "Second Verse, Same as the First?", only in the OC would the Republican GOP find a way to take a second endorsement vote because the Sheriff for two terms did not receive the party's endorsement during the first vote.
It is like the OC attorney who represents the OC Sheriff's Dept., while simultaneously representing the Catholic Diocese of Orange, the County of Orange and the LA Catholic Archdiocese. Obviously, there has to be a reason why sexual predators and those who covered up the crimes, escaped criminal prosecution by law enforcement.
It is like a principal's son at a prominent Catholic HS in the OC who is charged with felony gun possession on the school's campus and one year later, escapes probation, jail and a criminal record, while his principal-father is transferred to a Catholic HS in Los Angeles.
The O.C. Sheriff and the OCDA are positions meant to serve the interests and safety of children and the general public -- NOT just the OC Republican party and the rich, famous and politically-connected in the OC.
The laws governing separation of Church and State are continually violated when it comes to the OC Republican party and the safety of citizens not only in the OC, but nationwide. In my opinion, this places children and adults at risk. When will it stop?
Debby Bodkin, Founder, www.catholics4justice.com
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Posted OC Weekly, March 11 @ 10:42 a.m.
Justice would have been served almost immediately if the charges were handled in the juvenile court system. The video would have been viewed by a judge, the case facts heard and the sentencing would have followed. The juvenile court process would not have taken four years to complete and it would have been private. Jane Doe and her family would have been protected from the media horror suffered. The defense team would have been able to defend the three boys without battling the media’s input. Whoever made the decision to drag Jane Doe, Haidl, Nachreiner, Spann and their families through two adult public jury trials made a political decision.
Debby Bodkin, Founder, www.catholics4justice.com
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LETTERS TO CHURCH LEADERS:
March 15, 2006
Dear Cardinal Mahony:
The word of Father John O'Byrne's installation as a Monsignor is wonderful news, especially to the Catholic laity who have worked with Fr. O'Byrne in a multitude of ministries. We want to thank you for bestowing this honor on Fr. O'Byrne.
However, this news of Fr. O'Byrne's honor has left us with questions. The Addendum Report to the People of God Clergy Sex Abuse releaed in 2005, reports that he has an allegation of sexual misconduct. We have heard nothing since that Addendum was made public. Has this allegation against Fr. O'Byrne been resolved? If so, what was the process of the investigation? What was the conclusion? Has it been reported publicly anywhere?
This leads to other questions. What about all the other priests listed on the Addendum? Have any of them been cleared? Or have any of the allegations been found to be substantial? Since Fr. O'Byrne has remained in ministry during his investigation, have any of those other priests been removed from ministry while the allegations against them are being investigated?
Concerned Catholics have united with survivors of clergy sexual abuse in a forum called "A Coalition for Truth" to dialogue about the issues that unite us. Over the last two months we have invited you and your representatives to join us. We continue to issue this invitation to you. These are exactly the kinds of questions that we believe need to be discussed.
Now more than ever, the | | |
