Aug 28, 2018

Pennsylvania AG claims proof Vatican knew of a sexual abuse coverup

A shot of the pope's hands and robes, but not his face. One hand is in a fist, one hand holds a microphone. A crucifix necklace hangs on his white robes.

Photo: Gregorio Borgia/AFP via Getty Images

Pennsylvania Attorney General Josh Shapiro, who helped uncover hundreds of cases of sexual abuse by Catholic priests, told NBC's Today Show on Tuesday that he had proof the Vatican was aware of at least one cover-up of sexual abuse.

Why it matters: Shapiro told NBC he was not specifically accusing Pope Francis of wrongdoing. But this revelation throws another spotlight on rampant sexual misconduct, shaming and secrecy within the Catholic church — and specifically among the church's leadership.

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