At the Diocese of Stockton we recognize the inherent need to accompany the victims of sexual abuse to wholeness and to be and instrument of God's healing.
Since 2004, each Diocese in the United States has employed a Victim Assistance Coordinator (VAC) to provide immediate pastoral care to those who have been sexually abused as a minor, by clergy.
The Victim Assistance Coordinator (VAC) will initially help the person making the report by listening and gathering the relevant information and may connect them to resources, such as counseling or therapy. These will be discussed together as a decision is made.
The VAC may direct or assist the person making the report in contacting the law enforcement agency that has jurisdiction in the locale where the alleged abuse occurred. Note: Law enforcement agencies operate independently, conducting their own investigations and operating within the statutes of the law.
If you, or someone you know, are the victim of sexual abuse, please contact local law enforcement. We encourage you to come forward and speak out.
The Diocesan Policy Dealing with Allegations of Sexual Abuse of Minors can be read here.