For the safety of children and the healing
of victims, the Archdiocese of Oklahoma City provides an Abuse of
Minors Pastoral Response Hotline for reporting the abuse of a minor
(in the past or presently) by a member of the clergy or other church
personnel. Calls to this number will be answered by the
Archdiocesan Assistance Coordinator who will offer to meet with the
caller in person, if the caller so desires. The Assistance
Coordinator will also assist you in making a formal complaint to the
Archdiocese, arranging a personal meeting with the Archbishop or his
representative and in obtaining support and pastoral counseling.
Calls are confidential with the following
exceptions:
Any allegation of sexual or
physical abuse or neglect concerning those who currently are
minors must be reported to the Oklahoma Department of Human
Services (1-800-522-3511) as required by Oklahoma laws and
Archdiocesan policies.
Any allegation of sexual misconduct
must be shared with the proper Archdiocesan authorities.
Local law enforcement agencies may also
be contacted.
In addition, there are several things you
may do:
a.. Contact the Oklahoma Department of Human Services
(1-800-522-3511). Contacting DHS is mandatory if the victim is a
minor.
b.. Contact the appropriate law enforcement agency (for
example the local police).
c.. Contact local child protection agencies, a private
attorney and or a support group.