The Archdiocese of Newark settled two sexual abuse claims against retired Bishop Nicholas DiMarzio. The settlements, reached through mediation, involved two plaintiffs who received settlements in the six-figure range. DiMarzio, who retired in 2021, maintains his innocence and did not authorize the settlements. One of the plaintiffs, Samier Tadros, shared the alleged abuse's lasting impact on his life.
4 months ago
The Archdiocese of Newark has settled two sexual abuse claims against retired Bishop Nicholas DiMarzio, stemming from alleged incidents over 50 years ago when he was a priest in Jersey City 1. The settlements were reached through a mediation process between the Archdiocese and the plaintiffs, Mark Matzek and Samier Tadros 1. Matzek, now 62, received a "mid-six-figure" settlement, while Tadros, 52, received a "low six-figure" settlement 1.
Bishop Nicholas DiMarzio, 81, who retired as head of the Diocese of Brooklyn in 2021, vehemently denies the allegations, stating he "never abused anyone" 1. He emphasized that he did not authorize or approve the settlements, nor did he participate in the negotiations 1. DiMarzio highlighted a nearly two-year Vatican investigation, conducted under Vos Estis Lux Mundi and led by Cardinal Timothy Dolan, which concluded in September 2021 that the allegations were "not to have the semblance of truth" 1. DiMarzio also stated he passed a lie detector test 1.
The alleged abuse involving Mark Matzek reportedly occurred between 1973 and 1976 when he was an altar server at St. Nicholas Church in Jersey City 1. Samier Tadros's allegations date from 1979 to 1980 at Holy Rosary Church, also in Jersey City 1. Tadros spoke publicly about the profound and lasting impact the alleged abuse has had on his relationships and daily life 1. The claims against DiMarzio first surfaced in 2019 following his apostolic visitation to the Diocese of Buffalo, where an attorney for other accusers suggested the Buffalo investigation was compromised due to DiMarzio facing his own abuse accusations 1.
The Archdiocese of Newark stated that the settlements were a "business decision" made to avoid the costs of litigation and to help bring resolution to painful matters for all involved 1. Both the Archdiocese and DiMarzio's lawyer, Joseph A. Hayden, clarified that the settlement agreements explicitly state there is no admission of liability by any person 1.
What is the Church's teaching on safeguarding children?
The Catholic Church is committed to safeguarding children and vulnerable adults, recognizing that all individuals, especially the young and those who are vulnerable, have a right to be safe and protected. This commitment is rooted in the Church's mission to reflect the love and care of Christ, who welcomed children and emphasized the importance of protecting the innocent.
The Church's approach to safeguarding is built upon several key principles:
To implement these principles, the Church has developed and continues to refine various measures and policies:
The Church's understanding and implementation of safeguarding have evolved significantly, particularly in response to the global crisis of clerical sexual abuse. This evolution has led to a more comprehensive and proactive approach, moving from a focus primarily on internal disciplinary measures to a broader commitment to prevention, victim support, and collaboration with civil authorities. Documents such as Pope Leo XIV's Vos Estis Lux Mundi have further strengthened the Church's legal framework for addressing abuse and ensuring accountability.
In summary, the Church's teaching on safeguarding children is a robust and evolving commitment to protecting the vulnerable, rooted in theological principles, implemented through comprehensive policies, and continually refined in light of experience and best practices.