Fl - SNAP Applauds Maximum Sentence Given to Fr. Doherty

By Barbara Dorris
SNAP
January 28, 2013

http://www.snapnetwork.org/fl_snap_applauds_maximum_sentence_given_to_fr_doherty

We are glad that Fr. Neil Doherty was given the maximum sentence possible. Kids are always safer when predators are behind bars. Given that Fr. Doherty has been accused in dozens of abuse cases over the past decade, it is clear that kids in Miami are better off now that he is off the street.

While we are glad that Fr. Doherty has been brought to justice, the sad fact remains that top diocesan staff who repeatedly ignored warnings and allegations have escaped punishment. Only when those who enable child sex abuse are punished alongside the abusers will the epidemic begin to wane.

We hope that this sentence encourages any other possible victims of Fr. Doherty to come forward and make a report to police. Often, when victims feel like they are beyond the reach of their abuser, they find the courage to come forward. We encourage anyone who may be suffering in silence to speak up today.