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That is an excellent point. I was unaware that the priest had already been convicted (from the post that Notwistanding has addressed to me, I thought that no charges had been filed).

You're correct, once the person has already been released from prison, then it is impossible to be aid and abett that particular felon from escaping justice on that crime.

You'd be astonished to know that I'm a practicing Catholic (was at mass last night). I don't blame the Pope for any of this, I think the American Church hierarchy has done its best to hide its skeletons from everyone... including the Vatican. What I'm concerned about is that the American Church's primary concern is helping the abusive priests and not the abusive children. I think the New Hampshire priest whose case you cite is unique, the Boston archdiocese seems to specialize in moving priests around before they get caught.

Thank you for correcting my error.

Question: Does Massachusetts have a 'mandated reporter' law? In California, certain professions such as teachers, physicians, nurses, counselors and anyone who comes into contact with children (and the dependent elderly) are required by law (under threat of fines or imprisonment) to file a report with the police, Child Protective Services or Adult Protective Services in cases of abuse. The victims can decide not to prosecute but this must be done to get the offender off the street or create a paper trail as he or she WILL abuse again. I have never been able to determine if priests fall under this law or not.