The United States Province, through the Victim Assistance Coordinator and independent investigators, will respond swiftly to evaluate and investigate any accusation of sexual misconduct by a member. If the conduct involves a minor, the United States Province will follow the guidelines spelled out in the policy available below. The protocol for investigation includes:

• Pastoral outreach to the alleged victim;
• Reporting the alleged abuse to civil authorities, and cooperation with their investigation;
• Placing the member alleged to have committed the abuse on administrative leave, pending the outcome of the investigation’
• Informing the Province Review Board of the allegation;
• Initiating a Canonical Preliminary Investigation, if it is determined the allegation has at least the possibility that there could be truth in the facts and circumstances.

Policy on Response to Allegations of Sexual Abuse of Minors