A recently released interim report from historians at the University of Trier has revealed a disturbing catalogue of sexual abuse cases within the Diocese of Trier, spanning the tenures of Bishops Reinhard Marx and Stephan Ackermann. The report, detailing events from 1946 to 2021, highlights a systemic failure to adequately address allegations and protect vulnerable individuals.
Researchers identified 21 alleged perpetrators and at least 35 victims during Bishop Marx’s administration and a further 16 alleged perpetrators and 24 victims under Bishop Ackermann. Cumulatively, the diocese has now recorded 248 alleged perpetrators and 734 victims across the period examined. The investigation, based on the analysis of 1,279 files and 30 interviews with victims and witnesses, underscores a persistent, albeit evolving, crisis within the Church.
While researchers note a decrease in the number of “intensive perpetrators” – those accused of abusing ten or more individuals – since the time of Bishop Spital, the report delivers a sharp critique of the Diocese’s handling of these instances. Crucially, the study points to significant shortcomings in communication with victims, local communities and the wider public. The most damaging criticism centers on inconsistencies in record-keeping practices and a lack of transparency between dioceses, hindering effective redress and preventative measures.
Concerns have also been raised regarding the Diocese’s personnel management, specifically the inadequate oversight of transfers for accused individuals to care facilities or hospitals. The study suggests there were instances where the perceived welfare of the perpetrators was prioritized over the broader public safety and the needs of the victims.
The investigation’s author, Lena Haase, highlighted the historically non-standardized approach to dealing with abuse allegations, resulting in “a lenient approach towards the accused”. While Bishop Ackermann has demonstrably taken responsibility for the totality of the events, the report implicitly questions the commitment of previous leadership to confront the problem decisively.
The ongoing research, scheduled to continue until 2026, will focus on scrutinizing cases from 1946 to 1966. The findings will almost certainly fuel the broader debate regarding the Catholic Church’s accountability and its efforts to create a truly safe environment for its members and the most vulnerable within its care, raising serious questions about institutional culture and the effectiveness of reform efforts.