About the Archdiocese of New York Abuse Scandal
For decades, the Archdiocese of New York has faced allegations that its priests, deacons, and other clergy members sexually abused children and vulnerable parishioners — and that Church officials failed to act.
Lawsuits and internal records have revealed a pattern of concealment, silence, and institutional protection that left countless victims without help. These cases describe widespread abuse across Manhattan, the Bronx, and Staten Island.
Archdiocese of New York lawsuits claim that:
- Clergy members abused more than 1,900 children and vulnerable adults across parishes, schools, and Catholic Church programs
- Church officials often reassigned or protected known abusers instead of reporting them to law enforcement
- Survivors were discouraged from speaking out through intimidation, secrecy, or pressure to remain silent
- Abuse was concealed through internal handling of complaints, rather than transparent reporting
To date, more than $65 Million total has been paid out to hundreds of survivors of New York Archdiocese sexual abuse, and the Archdiocese plans to set aside another $300 Million for additional survivors.
While no amount of money can ever erase the trauma, compensation can help survivors turn a new page and move toward healing.
If you or someone you love experienced abuse within the Archdiocese of New York, even decades ago, Sokolove Law may be able to help you pursue justice, accountability, and compensation.
Let Sokolove Law Fight for You
Our Archdiocese of New York sexual abuse lawyers can fight for justice on your behalf. Let us put our 45+ years of experience to work for you.
Latest Archdiocese of New York Abuse News
The Archdiocese of New York has faced many legal claims tied to clergy sexual abuse. Court rulings, insurance disputes, internal disclosures, and mounting survivor allegations have shaped the Archdiocese’s response over the past decade.
Find out about the latest New York Archdiocese abuse news:
- February 2026: In a state court filing, the Archdiocese of New York accused Chubb Insurance of secretly posing as a victims’ advocacy group to undermine the Archdiocese amid an ongoing insurance dispute over coverage for clergy sexual abuse claims.
- January 2026: An amendment to the Gender-Motivated Violence Act will open a lookback window from March 2026 to March 2027, allowing many survivors of clergy sexual abuse in New York City to file or refile lawsuits against both abusive priests and the institutions that enabled them, even if the abuse took place decades ago.
- December 2025: The New York Archdiocese has announced a plan to set aside approximately $300 Million for survivors of sexual abuse as part of a global settlement.
- November 2025: The New York City Council has voted to provide survivors with more time to file sexual abuse lawsuits. This bill must be signed by the mayor before it takes effect.
- September 2025: A New York court ruled that London insurers must cover up to $200,000 for each clergy abuse claim against the Archdiocese, and the Archdiocese’s $100,000 share does not reduce the insurers’ responsibility.
- May 2025: A New York court refused to dismiss the Archdiocese of New York’s claims that the insurance company Chubb acted in bad faith in handling coverage tied to clergy abuse settlements.
- April 2025: A state appeals court ordered the Archdiocese to turn over files on the grounds that these records may show whether they knew about an allegedly abusive priest’s behavior, how they supervised him, and whether they took reasonable steps to protect children.
- March 2025: A cybersecurity breach may have exposed personal information for abuse survivors linked to bankruptcy cases involving multiple Catholic dioceses and archdioceses, including the Archdiocese of New York.
- November 2024: The Archdiocese announces staff cuts, property sales, and restructuring to cover sexual abuse claim payouts.
- October 2024: Cardinal Dolan stated that the Archdiocese has resolved more than 400 child sexual abuse claims through its reconciliation program and settled an additional 123 lawsuits filed under the Child Victims Act (CVA). He also reported that about 1,400 additional claims are still pending, bringing the total number of known Archdiocese sexual abuse claims to over 1,900 cases.
- July 2024: Media outlets have reported that unsettled sex abuse claims against the Archdiocese total $859 Million.
- December 2022: The New York Archdiocese was ordered to turn over more than 120 pages of files related to an investigation against Bishop Howard Hubbard after at least 10 survivors accused him of sexual assault. The Archdiocese had fought the request, arguing that the documents were protected under the Constitution.
- August 2019: Hundreds of lawsuits were filed against Catholic dioceses in New York as a 1-year window opened, extending statutes of limitations for child sexual abuse and giving survivors more time to sue their abusers and the institutions they say failed to protect them. The Archdiocese also reported paying over $65 Million through its settlement fund to 323 survivors.
- July 2019: The Archdiocese filed lawsuits against 31 insurance companies, claiming that they intend to deny or limit coverage for sex abuse claims.
- April 2019: The Archdiocese of New York named 115 priests and 5 deacons "credibly accused" of child sexual abuse. The most recognizable name was Cardinal Theodore McCarrick, who was defrocked after the Vatican found him guilty of sexual abuse.
- December 2018: The Archdiocese of New York informed a California college that Father Donald Timone had never been accused of sexual abuse. However, in 2003, the Archdiocese was told Timone had sexually abused minors and reached settlements with the alleged victims in 2017, according to the Catholic News Agency.
- December 2017: Through the IRCP fund, more than $40 Million in New York Archdiocese settlement money has been paid to nearly 200 clergy sex abuse survivors.
- October 2016: The Archdiocese created an Independent Reconciliation and Compensation Program (IRCP), an arbitration program for abuse survivors to secure compensation outside of the justice system.
“You can’t get insurance coverage for what the church has admitted — hiding and facilitating the criminal sexual abuse of children.”
– Chubb Insurance Company
Taken together, these events show how widespread clergy abuse has been within the Archdiocese and how long it has taken for survivors to be heard. As survivors continue to come forward, our Archdiocese of New York sexual abuse lawyers are here to provide compassionate support.
Call (800) 995-1212 now to see if you may be able to seek a New York Archdiocese settlement. It costs nothing to speak with us.
New York Archdiocese Settlements & Verdicts
The Archdiocese of New York has paid over $66 Million to 330 survivors of clergy sexual abuse and plans to set aside more than $300 Million for an additional 1,300 survivors.
These payouts reflect decades of misconduct, institutional failures, and the need for accountability across Archdiocese parishes, schools, and youth programs.
New York Archdiocese settlements and verdicts include:
- $300 Million to be set aside for survivors of sexual abuse
- $65 Million for 323 survivors of New York Archdiocese abuse
- Over $1 Million to 7 men who were abused by priests
While no amount of compensation can change the past, money from a sexual abuse settlement can provide survivors with a sense of justice and hope for a better future.
$300 Million for New York Archdiocese Sexual Abuse Survivors
On December 8, 2025, Cardinal Timothy Dolan announced plans for the Archdiocese to set aside $300 Million to provide survivors of clergy sexual abuse with compensation.
The funds are intended to support a potential global settlement that would address more than 1,300 sexual abuse claims still pending against the Archdiocese.
Both sides have also agreed to appoint retired Judge Daniel J. Buckley as a neutral mediator. Buckley previously oversaw the global settlement with the Archdiocese of Los Angeles, which was the largest clergy abuse settlement in the U.S. to date.
Over $65 Million in New York Archdiocese Settlements Awarded
By August 2019, 323 survivors had received a combined $65 Million through the Archdiocese of New York’s Independent Reconciliation and Compensation Program.
Using these numbers, the New York Archdiocese abuse average settlement is over $200,000 through the IRCP. Individual payouts may vary based on the nature of the abuse, how long it occurred, and the age of the victim.
For many survivors, New York Archdiocese settlements offer long-overdue acknowledgment of harm and accountability. Compensation for medical care, therapy, and other resources can help with healing.
Over $1 Million in New York Archdiocese Settlements Paid to 7 Survivors
In 2017, seven men who were sexually abused by Archdiocese of New York priests received settlements ranging from $150,000 to $350,000 through the Archdiocese’s reconciliation program.
The abuse occurred in the 1970s and 1980s, and many of the accused priests continued working in Archdiocese parishes and schools until 2000 or later.
The accused priests included Reverend Gennaro “Jerry” Gentile, who was transferred to 7 different parishes, and Reverend Francis Stinner, who was accused of abuse in 1988 but wasn't investigated by the Archdiocese until 1997.
Billions Recovered Nationwide
At Sokolove Law, we’ve recovered over $10.2 Billion for thousands of injured clients nationwide. Let us get you the results you deserve.
Archdiocese of New York Priest Abuse List
The Archdiocese of New York has named over 120 priests and deacons accused of sexual assault. However, survivors and advocates believe the true number to be substantially higher, especially considering that nearly 2,000 Archdiocese abuse lawsuits have been filed.
In many cases, the Archdiocese knew of sexual abuse allegations against clergy members — but transferred them to another parish or otherwise failed to act, continuing to put vulnerable children in harm's way.
The Archdiocese of New York list of accused priests includes:
- John Albino: One of 4 priests at St. Simon Stock in the Bronx, he was accused of assaulting a 16-year-old boy from 1996 to 1998. The priests allegedly offered the boy money for sex and threatened to harm him if he told. The Archdiocese reportedly settled a lawsuit filed by the family in 2002.
- Joseph Ansaldi: Along with other clergy and staff members, Ansaldi was accused of sexually abusing a boy at Mount Loretto orphanage from 1953 to 1967. He was also accused of assaulting a teenage boy from 1984 to 1985, while principal of St. Joseph by the Sea High School on Staten Island.
- Declan Bailey: Ordained in 1944, the priest sexually abused a 4-year-old boy in 1984 while working as a chaplain at St. Anthony Community Hospital in Warwick, according to a lawsuit. He reportedly referred to the child as his "grandson."
- Linda Baisi: The former nun was accused of sexually abusing a boy from the ages of 12 to 17 beginning in 1987. Baisi was the child's teacher at St. Frances de Chantal in the Bronx.
- Deacon Arthur Manzinone: After being accused of sexual abuse in the 1980s while working as an elementary school principal, he was removed from the ministry in 2003.
- Deacon Albert Mazza: Mazza was removed from the Holy Name of Mary Parish in Croton-on-Hudson after a police investigation found evidence that he had abused multiple children.
- Cardinal Theodore McCarrick: The former Cardinal and Archbishop of Washington, D.C. was expelled from the priesthood after he was found guilty by the Vatican of sexual abuse. McCarrick, who had served as a priest in the New York Archdiocese, is one of the highest-ranking Catholic officials to be defrocked.
- Edward Pipala: He served in two parishes running youth groups, even after he had been accused of sexual abuse while serving as a Catholic school teacher in Staten Island. Ultimately, Pipila was accused of molesting as many as 50 boys and served 7 years in prison for his crimes.
- Francis Stinner: At least 10 survivors accused Stinner of molesting them prior to his death in 2017. The Archdiocese allegedly paid a settlement to the family of a boy he assaulted in 1988, but failed to report his conduct to the police.
This list represents only a small portion of the clergy members accused of abuse within the Archdiocese of New York. Hundreds of additional allegations have surfaced in lawsuits, Church records, and survivor reports, underscoring the importance of holding the institution accountable.
The Survivors Network of those Abused by Priests (SNAP) called the list "belated" and said the "information is good but not enough for a complete list."
"Cardinal Timothy Dolan should update his list to include, at a minimum, the work histories of each accused priest so that communities where abusers served know to look for survivors in their midst."
– Survivors Network of those Abused by Priests
New York Archdiocese Abuse Statistics
New York Archdiocese abuse statistics show just how widespread the problem has been and how deeply it's entrenched within the organization. Hundreds of families have been affected by abusive clergy who were enabled and protected.
These numbers also make it clear that survivors are not alone — and that a path to justice is possible. Hundreds of people have already stepped forward and received long overdue compensation.
Find out about Archdiocese of New York abuse statistics:
- Approximately 11,000 claims of sexual abuse at the hands of Catholic clergy, including hundreds within the Archdiocese of New York, have been reported from 1950 to 2002, according to the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops.
- The Archdiocese has identified over 120 living and deceased clergy members accused of sexual abuse. The true number of perpetrators may be substantially higher due to secrecy and internal cover-ups.
- About 75% of the priests on the Archdiocese of New York list were ordained between 1908 and 1969.
- As of 2024, about 1,932 sexual abuse claims have been filed against the Archdiocese.
- Incidents of Archdiocese of New York clergy sexual abuse were most frequent from 1960 to 1990. However, lawsuits allege abuse as far back as the 1930s.
- The individual most frequently named in Archdiocese sex abuse lawsuits is an ex-parish janitor and basketball coach who died in 1992, according to Cardinal Dolan.
- Between 2004 and 2024, Catholic Church entities paid more than $5 Billion in settlements and legal fees related to clergy sexual abuse nationwide.
- The Archdiocese of New York created an Independent Reconciliation and Compensation Program (IRCP) for survivors who chose not to file lawsuits. The program has paid out over $65 Million to date.
If you or someone you love was abused within the Archdiocese of New York, our sexual abuse attorneys can help you understand your legal options and pursue the justice you deserve.
Who Can File an Archdiocese of New York Lawsuit?
You may be able to file an Archdiocese of New York Lawsuit if you or your loved one was abused by a priest, deacon, teacher, employee, or other trusted figure within the organization or any of its affiliated church or school programs.
Changes in New York law have expanded access to justice for survivors, allowing many to file claims even if the abuse occurred decades ago. Adults who were harmed as children may still be able to seek financial compensation, emotional validation, and a public record of what happened.
Coming forward is never easy, but you don’t have to do it alone. You deserve answers and support, and your story matters.
Contact Sokolove Law to find out whether an Archdiocese of New York lawsuit may be an option in your situation. The consultation is free, and there’s no obligation to move forward unless you feel ready.
Steps to Filing New York Archdiocese Sexual Abuse Lawsuits
Speaking out about sexual abuse can feel overwhelming, especially when the harm was committed by a trusted priest, teacher, or clergy member.
At Sokolove Law, we understand how hard it is to come forward after an incident of sexual abuse. That's why our team handles all the legal work for you, helping you seek answers, accountability, and compensation while you focus on your well-being.
Our Archdiocese of New York clergy sexual abuse lawyers can:
- Provide a free case review to help you understand your legal rights
- Collect evidence, like Archdiocese records, medical documentation, witness testimony, and employment history of the accused
- File your lawsuit against the abuser, the Archdiocese of New York, and any individuals who allowed the abuse to occur
- Pursue an Archdiocese of New York abuse settlement by negotiating directly with the Archdiocese and their insurance carriers
- Go to trial if necessary and fight for the justice and accountability you deserve
You don’t have to face the next steps by yourself. We’re here to make the legal process as simple and supportive as possible.
"Telling your story is not always easy. But hopefully, with an empathetic ear on the other side of the line, with lawyers who believe in you and will be beside you the entire time, they can give you that support."
– Ricky LeBlanc, Sokolove Law Managing Attorney
Get Help from Our Archdiocese of New York Sexual Abuse Lawyers
For more than 45 years, Sokolove Law has stood beside survivors of clergy abuse, helping them seek accountability and finally be heard.
If you or someone you love experienced abuse within an Archdiocese of New York parish, school, or religious program, you may be eligible for compensation. Our team is here to listen with compassion, protect your rights, and fight on your behalf.
We’ve helped thousands of survivors nationwide pursue justice, recovering over $10.2 Billion total for people harmed through no fault of their own.
Every case matters, and every survivor deserves support, validation, and the opportunity to move forward.
Call (800) 995-1212 right now or fill out our contact form to learn more about your options and get the support you deserve.
Archdiocese of New York Clergy Sexual Abuse Lawyer FAQs
What is the Archdiocese sexual abuse case about?
The Archdiocese of New York sexual abuse case refers to hundreds of claims filed by survivors who were sexually abused as children by Archdiocese priests, deacons, teachers, or other trusted officials. Over 120 priests and deacons within the Archdiocese were credibly accused of abuse, with nearly 2,000 survivors coming forward.
These claims allege that Archdiocesan leaders failed to protect children, ignored warning signs, reassigned known abusers, or concealed the abuse for decades.
If you've been harmed by someone in the Archdiocese of New York, Sokolove Law may be able to fight for you. Get started with a free case review.
Who can file an Archdiocese of New York lawsuit for sexual abuse?
You may be able to file an Archdiocese of New York lawsuit if you were sexually abused by anyone in a position of authority within the organization, like a priest, deacon, teacher, employee, volunteer, or other trusted figure.
Even if the abuse happened decades ago, survivors may still be eligible to file a claim. Take the first step — call (800) 995-1212 now.
What is the Archdiocese abuse settlement?
The New York Archdiocese abuse settlement refers to compensation paid to survivors of clergy sexual abuse through lawsuits and private reconciliation programs. Many of the Archdiocese’s settlements have occurred through its Independent Reconciliation and Compensation Program (IRCP), which has already paid more than $65 Million to over 300 survivors.
In December 2025, the Archdiocese announced a plan to set aside an additional $300 Million for survivors of clergy abuse.
While no amount of money can undo the harm, New York Archdiocese settlement funds help survivors access therapy, treatment, lost wage support, and long-term care, while also creating an important public record of responsibility and wrongdoing.
What is the New York Archdiocese abuse average settlement?
The average New York Archdiocese abuse settlement is more than $200,000 per survivor, according to publicly reported totals from the Archdiocese’s Independent Reconciliation and Compensation Program (IRCP).
Settlement amounts may vary based on factors like the nature and duration of the abuse, supporting documentation, and prior complaints against the abuser.
What is the statute of limitations on sexual abuse in NY?
New York has some of the most survivor-friendly laws in the U.S. For civil claims involving childhood sexual abuse, survivors generally have until age 55 to file a lawsuit. This expanded deadline recognizes that many people are not able to come forward until well into adulthood.
It's worth speaking with a lawyer, even if the abuse happened decades ago. We can review your information and help you understand your options.
Can you sue a Catholic priest?
Yes. A survivor of sexual abuse can sue a Catholic priest for the harm they suffered. Lawsuits may also be filed against the Archdiocese of New York, the parish, school, or other Catholic entity that employed or supervised the priest, especially if leaders knew or should have known about the abuse and failed to protect children.
How much does it cost to work with a New York Archdiocese sexual abuse lawyer?
At Sokolove Law, it doesn’t cost anything upfront to work with our New York Archdiocese sexual abuse lawyers. Our firm operates on a contingency-fee basis, meaning you only pay if your case results in compensation.
Contact us now to take the first step toward the legal help and justice you deserve.
