Rhode Island Attorney General Peter Neronha released a comprehensive report Wednesday revealing that an estimated 75 Catholic priests sexually abused more than 300 children since 1950, with officials warning the actual numbers are likely much higher. The multiyear investigation into the Catholic Diocese of Providence found a pattern of institutional cover-up spanning decades.

The report described diocesan records as "damning," showing church leadership routinely transferred accused priests to new assignments without thoroughly investigating complaints or contacting law enforcement. Beginning in the early 1950s, the diocese operated a "spiritual retreat-style facility" where accused priests were sent for treatment with the goal of returning them to active ministry. This evolved into sending clergy to formal treatment centers, a practice the report called "absurdly Pollyannaish."

Of the 75 clergy identified as abusers, only 20 faced criminal charges and just 14 were convicted. A dozen others were laicized or dismissed from the clerical state. Neronha's office has charged four current and former priests for alleged abuse between 2020 and 2022, with three cases still pending trial.

The investigation began in 2019 following a Pennsylvania grand jury report that exposed widespread abuse. Unlike Pennsylvania, Rhode Island law prevents grand jury reports from becoming public, forcing Neronha to negotiate an agreement with the diocese to access what became known as the "secret archive" containing 70 years of internal records. The diocese cooperated in providing documents but refused requests for interviews with personnel responsible for handling abuse allegations.

The Diocese of Providence acknowledged "serious missteps" by past church leaders but maintained that no "credibly accused clergy" remain in active ministry. Church officials emphasized their cooperation with the investigation and stated the report presents historical issues that are not ongoing problems.

Neronha recommended multiple reforms, including clearer investigative timelines, ending requirements for victims to take polygraph tests, and investigating third-party complaints. He also called on state lawmakers to extend criminal and civil statutes of limitations for abuse cases and allow grand jury reports to become public.