Catholic church settles lawsuit around historical sex abuse of 10-year-old B.C. girl
A settlement has been reached in a lawsuit involving accusations that a former Catholic priest on Vancouver Island sexually abused a 10-year-old girl during confession decades ago.
Beginning in 1976, Hartmann is alleged to have, “over at least the next year,” kissed her, molested her and engaged “in other sexual activities” numerous times, her notice alleges, and the incidents occurred in the church “within the context of the sacrament of reconciliation, otherwise known as the confessional.” Talach said the priest was transferred to Port Hardy in June 1979.
The complainant sought unspecified damages for mental distress and pain and suffering. She told the News Bulletin the abuse has impacted her life negatively. She said she had a successful career until the trauma began affecting her and while she was raised Catholic, she has lost faith. “It’s a lifelong burden that someone carries after they’ve been sexually assaulted,” she said. “And particularly, if you’re a believing Catholic, and you’re sexually assaulted by your priest, that is an act of physical assault. It is an act of mental assault, and it’s a spiritual assault. And it affects every aspect of the Catholic parish member’s life.”
He said the diocese has put in place an independent reporting process managed by psychologists, counsellors, and social workers, has a “responsible ministry program” to screen all members of the clergy, volunteers and employees, and has protocols to ensure safe environments for children and others who are vulnerable.
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