French Bishops Call for Investigation Into Sexual Abuse Allegations Against Abbé Pierre

The late priest, a revered figure for his work with the poor, faces accusations from 33 individuals, including claims of abuse against minors and vulnerable adults.

The Conference of Bishops of France has formally requested that the Paris prosecutor open an investigation into allegations of sexual abuse by Abbé Pierre, who died in 2007.
A recent report by the Egae consultancy, commissioned by Emmaüs, revealed nine new accusations, bringing the total to 33 testimonies of abuse, including one involving the rape of a minor.
The allegations span several decades, from the 1970s to the 2000s, and include claims of abuse against children, family members, and individuals in precarious situations.
The bishops' request also calls for an inquiry into potential complicity and the failure to report these alleged crimes over the years.
Eric de Moulins-Beaufort, president of the bishops' conference, emphasized the importance of uncovering the truth and encouraged other potential victims to come forward.