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 (Charter) and the Essential Norms for Diocesan/Eparchial Policies Dealing with Allegations of Sexual Abuse of Minors by Priests or Deacons (Norms). The Charter and Norms mandated that every (arch)diocese establish an independent board to
review allegations of sexual misconduct or abuse involving minors by priests and deacons, and to advise the (arch)diocesan bishop and vicar for clergy on dealing with such matters.
In 1992, Cardinal Mahony as archbishop established a Sexual Abuse Advisory Board to advise him on matters he referred to the Board related to clerical sexual
misconduct, involving either minor and adult victims. As successor to the Advisory Board,
CMOB continued the practice in the archdiocese of reviewing matters
involving 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 sexual misconduct, support
safe environment efforts, assist victims, and restore the good name of
those for whom allegations are determined to be improper.
2-18-2025