Why do we need the CARE Act? Because dangerous policies like this one from CFC do not protect children. They protect pastors and abusers.
drive.google.com/file/d/1LWBAGnyLQF7_XWlLILOGfSh58pzs0ewD/view?usp=sharing
In this policy, the CFC elders do an initial "investigation."
They get to decide if the allegations are serious. They get to decide if they should report. They get to decide--in consultation with a lawyer--how to protect the church, not the victim.
Pass the #nyCAREact.
We know what happens when CFC leaders get to exercise their personal judgment in reporting.
Child molesters like Sean Ferguson escape justice.
northcountrynow.com/news/madrid-man-gets-probation-sex-abuse-calls-mandated-clergy-reporting-renewed-cfctoo-0339598
This policy protects the church, not the victim. Lawyers come before CPS. Any cooperation with the authorities is done "under the guidance of the church's lawyer."
Want to check with CPS to see if you should report? Call anonymously so they can't trace it to the church.
The CARE Act subjects pastors to mandated reporter rules.
ocfs.ny.gov/publications/Pub1159/OCFS-Pub1159.pdf
Mandated reporters are required to call CPS immediately. Mandated reporters do not do their own investigations--that is for CPS and local police.
CFC can get away with its dangerous policy because there are no legal consequences for not reporting.
Under the CARE Act, pastors could be charged with a Class A misdemeanor and be subject to criminal penalties if they do not report. They can also be sued in civil court.
This inadequate policy highlights why it's so important to pass the CARE Act.
If a church cannot construct a coherent or comprehensive child protection policy, they certainly do not have the expertise to assess or investigate child sexual abuse.
Pass the #nyCAREact