(San Diego, CA) – Today, the Diocese of San Diego filed for Chapter 11 Bankruptcy. This decision by Bishop Robert McElroy is an irresponsible attempt to obstruct survivors of clergy sexual abuse from obtaining justice through lawsuits filed under the California Child Victims Act.
“The Diocese of San Diego’s decision to file for Chapter 11 Bankruptcy demonstrates the Bishop’s priority of secrecy and self-protection,” said Jeff Anderson. “What the Bishop continues to underestimate is the strength and resilience of the survivors who will not be denied justice.”
The Diocese of San Diego is the fifth diocese to file for Chapter 11 Bankruptcy in California following the close of the Child Victims Act on December 31, 2022. The Diocese of Sacramento (4.1.2024), the Diocese of Santa Rosa (3.13.2023), the Diocese of Oakland (5.8.2023), and the Archdiocese of San Francisco (8.21.23) have already filed for Chapter 11 Bankruptcy protection in the wake of child sexual abuse lawsuits. The Diocese of Fresno is expected to file for bankruptcy in the coming months.