Statement regarding the sentencing of Mr. Douglas Perlitz '92

Statement regarding the sentencing of Mr. Douglas Perlitz '92

We are saddened by these events and appreciate that this has been a very difficult time for everyone involved. Our thoughts and prayers are with all those who have been victimized by these circumstances and whose trust has been betrayed. We hope that the outcome of these court proceedings will give some measure of relief to the victims of the abuse, and will help them in their healing process.

In February 2010, Fairfield University released the findings of an independent investigation into the University's relationship with PPT in Haiti. The results of the review, conducted by Day Pitney LLP, found that University officials had no knowledge of sex abuse allegations against Perlitz prior to May 2008 when University officials were informed of these allegations by a representative of the Haiti Fund. Fairfield University has retained Day Pitney LLP again to conduct an investigation within the University to determine if there were any allegations against Father Carrier during his tenure here at the University.

Fairfield University has put in place a sustainable, ongoing solution to help the children of the former PPT. The University, along with the Order of Malta and other partners, has taken steps to relieve the human suffering in this tragic situation by working with Kids Alive International, which already has a presence in Cap-Haitien. Fairfield has already provided immediate assistance to Kids Alive to help the boys in Haiti.

Kids Alive International, a U.S. based organization with a nearly 100-year history of caring for thousands of orphaned, abandoned, and abused children, is expanding their work in Cap-Haitien in order to care for the PPT boys and provide them with meals, needed medical attention, tutoring, and counseling. They will offer individualized care that meets the needs of each of the boys, so that the boys can regain their emotional security and learn to live independently.

Posted On: 12-22-2010 10:12 AM

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