You asked for a brief summary of the Hartford Archdiocese's sexual misconduct policy.

Approximately one month ago the Hartford Archdiocese updated its policy on sexual misconduct, which was initially adopted on April 20, 1990. It defines "sexual misconduct" as sexual conduct that is illegal under state law or contrary to the moral instructions, doctrines, and canon law of the Catholic Church.

REPORTING AND INVESTIGATING SEXUAL MISCONDUCT

The policy requires archdiocesan personnel, both lay and cleric, who have reasonable cause to believe that sexual misconduct has occurred to immediately report the incident to the Regional Episcopal Vicar. If the incident involves a minor (person under age 18), personnel must also comply with state mandated reporting requirements. But priests are not required to disclose information that they learn during a confession.

Each reported incident must be investigated (policy does not specify who conducts the investigation) as soon as reasonably possible without interfering in any criminal investigation. If, after an initial investigation, there is reasonable cause to believe that sexual misconduct occurred, the alleged perpetrator must be relieved of all responsibilities and placed on administrative leave pending the outcome of the final investigation and any outside investigation.

The archbishop or his designee must keep a record of each reported incident and investigation, which must be maintained confidentially.

PENALTY FOR SEXUAL MISCONDUCT

In cases where sexual misconduct is established, non-clergy will be terminated immediately and any priest will be suspended from the exercise of his ministerial duties "according to the provisions of canon law. " Any such priest who successfully completes diagnosis, treatment, and aftercare will be eligible for a permanent assignment, excluding ministry to minors and others at risk.

TRAINING ON SEXUAL MISCONDUCT

The policy states that the archdiocese will offer periodic sexual education misconduct programs conducted by an archdiocesan team that the archbishop designates.

BACKGROUND CHECKS

The archdiocese will conduct a background and reference check on all future lay personnel. It will require a report from the former diocese or religious order of non-incardinated (transferred) ordained clerics and religious personnel informing the archdiocese of any sexual abuse issues involving the person.

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