reuters.com
Published: Feb. 9, 2012 at 1:08 PM
PHILADELPHIA, Feb. 9 (UPI) — Lawyers for a Catholic priest charged with protecting child molesters have asked a Philadelphia judge to remove herself from the case.
In a motion filed Wednesday, the lawyers cite a remark made by Common Pleas Judge M. Teresa Sarmina in a hearing last month: “Anybody that doesn’t think there is widespread sexual abuse within the Catholic Church is living on another planet.”
Thomas Bergstrom and Jeffrey Lindy said Sarmina has demonstrated what appears to be consistent bias against the Catholic Church, The Philadelphia Inquirer reported.
Prosecutors say Lynn, as secretary for clergy in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia, assigned two priests to parishes even though both were suspected of molesting boys. Lynn, who is charged with conspiracy and child endangerment, is the first church official to face criminal charges involving covering up or overlooking molestation.
Sarmina made her remark Jan. 31 while striking a question from a questionnaire on whether potential jurors believe abuse is “widespread” in the church. She said the question might prejudice members of the jury panel against Lynn and the two accused priests.
Bill Donohue, president of the Catholic League, said in a statement Sarmina has shown she is “unfit to rule.”
No surprise. They (the archdiocese/Church officials) absolutely do not want that evidence to see the light of day.
Simple question:
If it is not “widespread”, explain on what continent, what country, in which City has it been “isolated”…?? To which church, which Diocese, which religious order…?
Widespread is correct! A simple map with each case from this site alone, highlighted , may reveal the planet is “permeated” at least in certain areas….a map with red pins!?…would lite up like the planet at night!…
The “isolation” is where the abusers sought their victims…and where they have been abandoned!
Keep this site alive for them.
You’re not alone! We pray, hope and speak up for you everyday…
The rest of it is “Bull dump” served on a silver platter with two candle holders while their lawyer smiles at you from across the table.
Don’t be fooled or intimidated by the “bovine” interventions!…
It too is “widespread”…
jg