A federal lawsuit filed by 11 female plaintiffs accuses the Roman Catholic Diocese of Springfield-Cape Girardeau and Bishop Edward Rice, in his official capacity, of facilitating and covering up the sexual abuse of minors by employees over a span of decades, Marta Mieze of the Springfield News-Leader reported.
The lawsuit, filed on September 12 in the U.S. District Court’s Western District of Missouri, seeks $75 million in damages for victims who allege they were sexually abused during the 1980s and 1990s. It names seven priests and clergy members, though only one is listed on the diocese’s public list of clergy with abuse allegations, last updated in September 2023.
According to the complaint, “The Diocese and Bishop failed to take any action to protect the children within its parishes, churches, and community.” It further alleges that the diocese and Bishop engaged in “decades of intentional misconduct” by turning a blind eye to the abuse committed by priests and other employees.
In a statement released on September 16, the diocese emphasized that it takes the allegations seriously but will refrain from further comment to respect the court proceedings. The diocese highlighted its Safe Environment Policy and Procedures, which are designed to protect children and provide reconciliation for those harmed by the Church.
The statement noted that, as a precaution, any clergy, employees, or volunteers accused of abuse or misconduct involving minors or vulnerable adults may be placed on temporary administrative leave by the Diocese. It also emphasized that those currently accused are entitled to the presumption of innocence, as outlined in the Charter.
Additionally, the lawsuit accuses the diocese and bishop of committing fraud by publicly portraying clergy as “men of excellent character” while being aware of ongoing sexual abuse. Court documents further allege that the diocese routinely relocated abusive priests to avoid consequences and sent them to facilities like the Servants of the Paraclete, a treatment center for sexually deviant clergy, before allowing them to return to ministry.
The lawsuit also alleges that the diocese and Bishop Rice ignored or failed to act on reports of abuse made by parishioners and employees, even after establishing a website encouraging the reporting of sexual abuse claims. Bishop Rice has led the diocese since 2016.
The lawsuit details alleged abuse of children as young as five at churches in Springfield, Kimberling City, Poplar Bluff, Malden, Neosho, Advance, Joplin, and Carthage.
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