A Washington news website reported today that Brian Adam, the last plaintiff in the sexual abuse case against the Archdiocese of Seattle, has settled for $700,000. According to the suit, Adam was sexually abused by former priest Patrick O'Donnell on several occasions.
Adam's attorney, Timothy Kosnoff, stated that Adam "felt really good that he got to tell his story. That was the most important thing." Adam was proud that he was able to get the leaders of the archdiocese to go to court and admit that wrongdoing had occurred in transferring O'Donnell to Seattle.
During his testimony, Adam had a tearful response to a question about why he was unable to report the clergy abuse to his parents: "I think maybe because he was a priest and it was always taught to not question their authority and I didn't know if they'd believe me."
If you or a loved one has suffered clergy abuse, please do not hesitate to contact an attorney. You do have legal rights and you may be able to get the justice that you deserve. The priest abuse lawyers at the Zalkin Law Firm are experienced and skilled in handling all types of Catholic clergy sexual abuse cases.
