The Archdiocese of Baltimore Added More Than 40 Names to the List of Credible Abusers

The Archdiocese of Baltimore recently added 42 new names to their public list of staff members who have been credibly accused of sexual abuse. The list includes nuns, deacons, teachers, and more.

According to The Baltimore Sun, it is “the largest single expansion” of accused church members since 2002, when 57 names were added. As of June 2023, there are close to 200 names on the list. Most people were already aware of the names that were added, but the church claims the update proves their “commitment to transparency” to the public.

The Maryland Attorney General’s Office released a report several months ago with most of these names, which included nuns, deacons, priests, brothers, teachers, and more. At the time of the report, these individuals were not on the Archdiocese of Baltimore’s public list. The Archdiocese of Baltimore added the names not only at the request of survivors and advocates, but also because the Maryland Attorney General recommended that the church do so.

What does Maryland law say about sexual abuse of a minor?

Under the law:

1. “Sexual abuse” means any act that involves:
   • sexual molestation or exploitation of a child by:
     • a parent;
     • a household member or family member;
     • a person who has permanent or temporary care or custody of the child;
     • a person who has responsibility for supervision of the child; or
     • a person who, because of the person’s position or occupation, exercises authority over the child; or
   • sex trafficking of a child by any individual.
2. “Sexual molestation or exploitation” includes:
   • allowing or encouraging a child to engage in:
     • obscene photography, films, poses, or similar activity;
     • pornographic photography, films, poses, or similar activity; or
     • prostitution;
   • incest;
   • rape;
   • sexual offense in any degree; and
   • unnatural or perverted sexual practices.

The new Maryland law regarding child sexual abuse lawsuits

In April, Governor Wes Moore signed the Child Victims Act of 2023 into law, which eliminated the statute of limitations for filing child sexual abuse lawsuits in civil court. (The previous statute of limitations only allowed survivors to file lawsuits up until they reached their 38^th birthday.) Governor Moore believes that it is essential to get rid of the statute of limitations because there is no timeframe on the amount of hurt a person who was sexually abused as a minor feels or experiences.

The new law goes into effect on October 3, 2023.

What types of losses can you claim in a child sexual abuse lawsuit?

Since each case is unique and different, the losses that survivors experience can vary from person to person. Here are some of the common types of losses that child sexual abuse survivors often claim:

• Medical bills
• Lost income
• Pain and suffering
• Loss of quality of life
• Loss of enjoyment of life or activities
• Mental and emotional trauma

Who can be held liable for sexual abuse of a child?

If your child was sexually abused by a member of the clergy, or if you yourself are a survivor, there may be multiple liable parties: the Church itself, as well as schools, camps, and other related parties and venues.

How can a Maryland injury lawyer help with my child sexual abuse case?

If you were sexually abused as a child and ready to discuss your case, Plaxen Adler Muncy, P.A. is here to assist you and guide you through the process. These types of cases are very complex and can be traumatizing to relive. However, our team can assure you that we will remain by your side the entire time, providing support and ensuring that your voice is heard.

Even though the new law doesn’t go into effect until October, it is in your best interest to start preparing your case right away. With so many victims and so many credibly accused abusers, the chances are good that multiple lawsuits will be filed once the law goes into effect. Working with an attorney from our firm now ensures that everything is ready to go the moment the law changes.

Plaxen Adler Muncy, P.A. takes any type of sexual assault or abuse case very seriously. We have spent almost 40 years of our career advocating for the injured and helping people secure the compensation they are owed. Our Maryland sexual abuse attorneys know how difficult these cases can be, but we will do everything we can to secure the best results possible while also providing support, compassion, and understanding to you. If you are ready to begin talking about your claim, please call the office of Plaxen Adler Muncy, P.A., or submit our contact form to schedule your confidential case review today. We have multiple offices located around Maryland for your convenience.