Priest suspend from abuse to minors: what we know

Mao, Valverde.– The Diocese of Mao-Montecristi The priest’s suspension reported on Tuesday Alejandro Anselmo Peña Sánchezafter receiving a complaint of alleged abuse against two minor sisters. The measure aims to allow the beginning of internal investigation and collaborate with the corresponding agencies for the clarification of the case.

In an official statement, the diocese explained that the decision seeks to guarantee transparency and justice:

“We know that the priest Alejandro Anselmo Peña Sánchez has been suspended from the public exercise of his ministry, for investigation purposes, before the complaint and/or accusation of which he has been subject,” says the document.

Commitment to victims

The Catholic Church in this diocesan jurisdiction expressed its commitment to offer spiritual and psychological assistance to the alleged victims, while guiding them about the legal and accompaniment procedures that must continue in a case of this nature.

The religious institution reiterated that it maintains a “tolerance” policy against any type of abuse And he remembered the words of Pope Francis: “In the Church there is no place for abuse or covering it”.

Research process

With the suspension, the priest Peña Sánchez is left from all pastoral work and the administration of sacraments while the inquiries are developed. The diocese said that it will act in coordination with the competent authorities, reaffirming that these types of complaints should receive immediate and undead attention.

Context and background

In recent years, the Catholic Church in the Dominican Republic has faced several accusations related to cases of sexual abuse, which has led to the Conference of the Dominican Episcopate to strengthen your prevention and action protocols. These guidelines include the immediate suspension of accused clergy, collaboration with ordinary justice and accompaniment to the victims.

Human Rights and Child Protection Organizations have highlighted the importance of these investigations being carried out with speed and transparency.

Next steps

The Diocese of Mao-Montecristi called on the community to maintain prudence while the investigation progresses and reiterated its willingness to fully collaborate with the Public Ministry.