Milwaukee Archdiocese Reaches $21M Settlement With Abuse Survivors

The Milwaukee Catholic Archdiocese and clergy abuse survivors have reached a $21 million settlement that may end the church’s long-running bankruptcy case.

The tentative agreement covers hundreds of abuse survivors who had not reached individual settlements. It was reached through a mediator and with a committee of creditors that formed when the archdiocese declared bankruptcy more than four years ago.

Jerry Topczewski, the archdiocese chief of staff, said the church can now turn its full attention to its spiritual, charitable and educational missions, “while also acknowledging that we’re turning a page here on a terrible part of our history that can’t be forgotten.”

Added Topczewski: “We always remember those who have been harmed.”

A group of abuse victims said the church’s lawyers would be paid more money than the people who were sexually abused by clergy.

A federal judge will rule on the proposed settlement this fall.