CHICAGO (WLS) -- Attorneys with the law firm Pearlman & Anderson announced nine new settlements with the Archdiocese of Chicago over the past two weeks involving allegations of child sexual abuse by priests dating back decades.
The settlements total more than $5 million and involve eight Catholic priests, all of whom are deceased. According to the attorneys, the alleged abuse occurred while the priests served at schools and parishes in Chicago, Homewood, Chicago Ridge, Chicago Heights, Wilmette and Morton Grove.
Attorney Marc Pearlman said the value of the settlements reflects recognition of the survivors' claims.
"The number represents validation. Nobody is paying that kind of money for something that didn't happen," Pearlman said.
The attorneys said some of the priests involved already appear on the Archdiocese of Chicago's list of clergy members against whom credible accusations of sexual abuse have been made, while others do not.
Attorney Melissa Anderson said survivors who come forward can help bring attention to cases involving priests who are not publicly identified.
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