Summary
A Polish bishop, Andrzej Jeż, is on trial for failing to inform authorities about alleged child abuse by two priests in his diocese. This first-ever case involving a Polish bishop stems from the Catholic Church’s handling of clergy sexual abuse scandals. The church has faced decades-long damage due to cover-ups and protection of abusive priests, including high-profile figures like St. John Paul II. Under internal church law, bishops are not required to report suspected abuse to police immediately, leading to many cases being handled internally for years before they were reported officially. Jeż is accused by prosecutors of not having informed the authorities as soon as he received credible information about child abuse committed by priests in his diocese, including two specific cases investigated and reported internally but still considered delayed reports under law. Jeż faces up to three years in prison if convicted, claiming he fulfilled his legal obligations when he did inform authorities after clarifying facts.
Key Topics
Bishop trial, Child abuse, Polish Church hierarchy
