NJ Supreme Court Clears Path for Grand Jury Probe Into Clergy Sexual Abuse

In a landmark decision for justice and transparency, the New Jersey Supreme Court has ruled that the state may empanel a grand jury to investigate clergy sexual abuse — a move that had been blocked for over six years due to legal challenges by the Diocese of Camden.

The unanimous ruling, authored by Chief Justice Stuart Rabner, dismantles prior court decisions that favored the diocese, reinforcing the grand jury’s crucial role in exposing systemic abuse and offering a public voice to survivors.

A Major Win for Accountability and Survivors

For years, survivors of clergy sexual abuse in New Jersey have waited for this moment — an opportunity to present their stories before a grand jury and pursue public accountability against institutions that have historically buried the truth. The ruling now gives state investigators the green light to launch a comprehensive inquiry into clergy misconduct and the systems that enabled it.

“We cannot predict what a grand jury may find,” Chief Justice Rabner wrote. “Investigations evolve based on the testimony the grand jury hears and the evidence it uncovers.”

Rabner emphasized that suppressing a potential grand jury presentment before it exists is premature and unfounded under New Jersey law. The decision affirms the state’s constitutional power to conduct grand jury investigations into matters of public harm, such as widespread sexual abuse by clergy members.

Diocese of Camden Ends Court Battle

The ruling comes after a surprise development in which the Diocese of Camden abandoned its years-long legal battle — a decision made shortly after Bishop Joseph A. Williams was installed. Diocese spokesperson Michael J. Walsh stated that the diocese will now cooperate with the investigation, committing to transparency and healing.

“To the victims and all those impacted by abuse, we reaffirm our sorrow, our support, and our unwavering resolve to do what is right, now and always,” Walsh said.

Legal Context and Public Impact

Grand jury proceedings in New Jersey are confidential, so it's unclear how soon a panel will be seated. However, the state may take cues from similar efforts in Pennsylvania, where a two-year grand jury investigation in 2018 led to an 887-page report documenting extensive abuse and cover-ups across six dioceses.

First Assistant Attorney General Lyndsay V. Ruotolo, who has championed the state’s efforts throughout the legal battle, praised the court’s ruling:

“There was no basis to stop the State from pursuing a grand jury presentment on statewide sexual abuse by clergy and the conditions that allowed it to go unchecked for so long.”

Ruotolo reaffirmed the state’s commitment to supporting survivors and ensuring accountability through the justice system.

Advocates Celebrate the Decision

The ruling was met with celebration from victim advocacy groups. Mark Crawford, head of the New Jersey chapter of Survivors Network of those Abused by Priests (SNAP), called the decision long overdue:

“It’s been six-plus years, and I’m glad that the victims will finally have the ability to tell their stories before a grand jury… The public has every right to know, because this institution — and any other — should not be above the law or free from public accountability.”

Crawford emphasized that the decision represents not only a critical reckoning for the Catholic Church but also a call to investigate other institutions that may have failed to protect children from abuse.

Survivors of Abuse NJ: Committed to Justice

At Survivors of Abuse NJ, we know that healing begins with truth, accountability, and action. Led by Joseph L. Messa, Jr., Esq., our legal team stands with survivors as they navigate the complexities of civil litigation and pursue the justice they deserve. We applaud the New Jersey Supreme Court for upholding the rights of survivors and affirming the state’s role in protecting the public.

This ruling is not just a legal victory — it’s a symbol of hope for the many survivors whose voices have been silenced for far too long.

We’re Here to Help

If you or someone you love has been impacted by clergy sexual abuse, know that you are not alone. At Survivors of Abuse NJ, we provide compassionate, experienced legal representation tailored to the needs of survivors. You have the right to be heard, and we are here to guide you every step of the way. Contact us today for a free and confidential consultation with attorney Joseph L. Messa, Jr., Esq.

Source:

New Jersey Monitor