NewsLocal News

Actions

CCPD ready to assist possible victims of sexual abuse from ‘credibly accused’ priests

Posted at 10:46 PM, Jan 31, 2019
and last updated 2019-01-31 23:46:00-05

The Diocese of Corpus Christi has released the names of local priests accused of abuse. Officers with the Corpus Christi Police Department are on standby, ready to help victims who plan to come forward.

Officers say once a report is made, that will then go through a process where it’s passed along other department leaders.

The department will then determine the proper division the case is associated with.

Then, the biggest question remaining for many is if the statute of limitations comes into play?

Police say that potential complainants should still file a case even if they have concerns.

“Again just encourage the victims to go ahead and have the report generated,” Corpus Christi Police Lt. Michael Pena said. “(If) they believe it or not  … detectives can look at that and we can make a determination (on) the case,”

Officers say some cases can take more time to investigate than others. That’s why it’s best to report the sexual abuse immediately.

The police department has a Victim Assistance Program that provides help with crisis counseling, education and more.

If you need assistance and want to speak with someone with the program, call 361-886-2670.