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Skip Navigation LinksADLA Administrative Handbook > Chapter 9 - Safe Environment > 9.13 - Clergy Misconduct Oversight Board


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​​​​​​​​The Clergy Misconduct Oversight Board (CMOB) was established in 2002 as part of the implementation of the USCCB Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People​ and the Essential Norms for Dioces​an/Eparchial Policies Dealing with Allegations of Sexual Abuse of Minors by Priests or Deacons ​that mandated that every (arch)diocese establish an independent board to review allegations against priests and deacons of sexual misconduct or abuse involving minors, and to advise the (arch)diocesan bishop and vicar for clergy on dealing with such matters.​

In the​ archdiocese a Sexual Abuse Advisory Board had been established in 1992 to advise the archbishop on matters related to clerical sexual misconduct, involving both minor and adult victims, that he elected to refer to that board. Since CMOB was the successor to the advisory board, CMOB has continued the custom in the archdiocese of reviewing matters involving both minor and adult victims.

CMOB has an operating charter. It is chaired by a layperson; is comprised of both lay and clerical members from law, mental health, and related professions; and includes victims and others who have experienced abuse. To respect privacy, matters are considered on an anonymous basis. Investigative and administrative support is coordinated by a staff person. The vicar for clergy, judicial vicar, and victims assistance ministry coordinator are ex officio members of CMOB.

​CMOB's role is to advise the archbishop and his administrative team and designees on actions to be taken and protocols and policies to be followed for the accused, and to offer insights concerning appropriate outreach to victims and those impacted by sexual misconduct. See the Archdiocesan Policy for Addressing Allegations of Sexual Misconduct by Clergy in the Archdiocese. This includes addressing particular cases as well as overall policy advice. CMOB considers matters related to removal from and possible return to ministry, intervention, and treatment and oversight protocols for accused priests and deacons, as well as overall policies and strategies to address misconduct, support safe environment efforts, assist victims, and restore the good name of those for whom allegations are determined to be improper.