Rhode Island Clergy Sex Abuse Report to Be Released

Attorney General says investigation found insufficient evidence of concealment by church officials.

Apr. 14, 2026 at 10:16pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a religious artifact, such as a cross or rosary beads, lit by a harsh, direct camera flash against a pitch-black background, conceptually illustrating the stark, gritty nature of the investigation into clergy sexual abuse.A somber investigation into historical allegations of clergy sexual abuse in Rhode Island exposes the complex realities behind the Catholic Church's troubled past.Providence Today

The Rhode Island Attorney General's office has spent over six years investigating allegations of clergy sexual abuse in the state. After a lengthy probe, the AG's office has determined there is insufficient credible evidence to show that church officials concealed or covered up abuse cases.

Why it matters

The upcoming release of the clergy sex abuse report in Rhode Island is significant, as it will shed light on a long-standing issue of sexual misconduct within the Catholic Church and how local authorities have handled these sensitive cases over the years.

The details

The investigation by the Rhode Island Attorney General's office examined historical allegations of clergy sexual abuse dating back decades. While the report will detail the findings of this extensive probe, the AG's office has stated there is not enough evidence to show that church leaders actively worked to conceal abuse cases from law enforcement or the public.

  • The Rhode Island Attorney General's office has spent over six years investigating clergy sex abuse allegations.
  • The report on the investigation's findings is set to be made public in the near future.

The players

Peter Neronha

The Rhode Island Attorney General who oversaw the lengthy investigation into clergy sexual abuse in the state.

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What they’re saying

“We found insufficient credible evidence of concealment or surprise.”

— Peter Neronha, Rhode Island Attorney General

The takeaway

While the upcoming report may not uncover widespread coverups by church officials, it is still an important step in addressing the longstanding issue of clergy sexual abuse in Rhode Island and providing transparency to the public.