It has been in the news everywhere for a couple of weeks now. Last month a parish priest, Father Geoff Drew, was removed pending an investigation by the Archdiocese into actions in violation of the Archdiocese’s Decree on Child Protection. On Monday, August 5, Archbishop Dennis Schnurr removed Auxiliary Bishop Joseph Binzer from head of the personnel board, because Binzer had received earlier reports of questionable behavior by Father Drew, but failed to convey this information to Schnurr. What information I have is based on a brief statement from the Archbishop himself, and from news items in the Cincinnati Enquirer, WCPO TV in Cincinnati, and Catholic News Agency.
The Enquirer reported that “church officials” received reports regarding Drew in 2013 and 2015. The complaints were referred to Butler County prosecutors, who determined no crime had occurred. The conduct “included hugs, shoulder rubs, patting of knees, comments of a sexual nature and texting.” The Archdiocese is investigating both the allegations against Father Drew and the actions of Bishop Binzer; according to WCPO, this involves an outside firm. The CNA reported that the Archbishop apologized for failures in handling this matter, and said that further changes would be made to prevent something like this from happening again.
What do I think about this? Several things. First, I am gratified there is far more transparency than in the past. Some will be frustrated that more details aren’t available, but given the rights of various people involved, including the right not to say anything publicly, and the privacy of children, that really can’t be helped. Second, I am stunned by the report that Bishop Binzer would hold back this sort of information. Third, Archbishop Schnurr seems to be moving quickly.
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