Los Angeles: The Los Angeles Police Department takes very seriously, any and all allegations of crimes against children. Recent News reports that the Archdiocese of Los Angeles had dismissed several priests following allegations they sexually abused minors, prompted the Department to begin an investigation.

Yesterday, Detectives with the Department’s Sexually Exploited Child Unit met with a legal advisor for the Archdiocese. Detectives were given names of priests and are currently checking Department records. The Archdiocese also assures that any calls it receives from victims, will be immediately referred to the LAPD.

Even though some of the cases may be outside the jurisdiction of the LAPD, the Department has agreed to help the Archdiocese identify and ensure that information is directed to the proper law enforcement agencies.

In order to protect the privacy of the victims, no other information regarding this investigation will be released.

This press release was prepared by Sergeant John Pasquariello, Assistant Officer In Charge, LAPD Media Relations Section, 213-485-3586.