About three weeks ago, we received a letter from Archbishop Denis Hart of Melbourne, Australia, alerting us that Bro. Bernard Hartman had been indicted by authorities in Australia for sexual abuse of a minor, stemming from the time he was in Melbourne in the 1970s - 1980s. A warrant for his arrest has been issued by the Victoria Police.

 

About six months ago, a high profile Royal Commission in Australia began to examine allegations of abuse and cover-up by a number of organizations in Australia, including the Catholic Church.

 

After consulting with the Archdiocese of Melbourne, Bernie and his legal counsel in St. Louis, and our Province Review Board, we

determined that the best course of action was for him to return voluntarily to Australia and face the charges. Otherwise, extradition proceedings would have begun with uncertain consequences for Bernie and the Province. With a voluntary surrender, there is hope that bail will be granted and that Bernie can live in relative peace until legal proceedings begin.

 

Bros. Dennis Schmitz and David Quigley are accompanying Bernie, who departed from St. Louis on Monday and arrived in Melbourne last evening (Central Standard Time). Dennis will assist with legal matters during the first week, and Dave will remain with Bernie until the legal case is completed.

 

I am indebted to Dennis and Dave for their generous offer of support for Bernie. They have been offered accommodations with a religious community in Melbourne. A criminal lawyer in Melbourne, recommended by the Archdiocese of Melbourne, has been engaged and will work with Bernie's lawyer in St. Louis.

 

I ask that we keep this information in strictest confidence. Please direct inquiries about this case to Diane Guerra.

 

Most of all, let us continue to pray for Bernie and everyone affected by abuse.

 

Fraternally,