Initiatives for Protecting Children

Archdiocese of Washington Case Review Board

Since 1993, the Archdiocese of Washington has had a Case Review Board to assist the Archbishop in assessing allegations of child sexual abuse against clergy and fitness for ministry.

The Case Review Board is an advisory body to the Archbishop that must consist of at least five persons of outstanding integrity and good judgment in full communion with the Church. The majority of Review Board members are to be laypersons not employed by the Archdiocese. At least one member should be an experienced and respected pastor of the Archdiocese and at least one member should have particular expertise in the treatment of the sexual abuse of minors.

The Case Review Board is (1) to assess allegations of sexual abuse of minors by clergy, advising the Archbishop on the credibility of the allegations and whether they fall within the definition of sexual abuse and (2) to advise on the suitability of the person for ministry. The Case Review Board may, but is not mandated to, be called not only for cases of child sexual abuse, but also for other types of alleged child abuse.

The chairman is the Honorable Dennis McHugh.