Unfortunately, decades of sexual abuse of children by members of the clergy went unnoticed in this country and others. By nature of their job, clergy members are in direct contact with children daily. While the majority of these interactions pass without incident, stories of abuse finally got the notice they deserved. Even now, stories of child sexual abuse by priests, nuns, and other clergy members still frequently hit the news.

One recent example in Arizona shows how difficult these cases can be for victims, and why it may be necessary to change the rules to allow victims an opportunity to bring a suit against those who committed these acts.
David Nelson, 63, became a Jehovah's Witness minister in 1979. In 1980, while still working for his church, it is alleged that he started sexually abusing a child. The child, a friend of Nelson's family, was between 7 and 14 years old when the abuse occurred. The crimes were first reported last month by the victim.

Nelson was questioned by the Phoenix Police Sex Crimes Unit, where he admitted to the allegations. He has been charged with sexual conduct with a minor, molestation of a child and public sexual indecency. Police are still investigating the matter to determine if there were any other victims in this case. Nelson is no longer serving as a member of the clergy, having previously retired.

The abuse allegedly occurred more than 30 years ago. Recently, lawmakers proposed changes to the laws regarding lawsuits due to the sexual abuse of children. The current laws require that a suit must be filed within two years of the child turning 18. The changes would have allowed the victim to file a suit at any point in time against either the abuser or someone who knew that the abuse was happening. Additionally, if someone had been the victim of sexual abuse within the past 35 years, like the victim in the Nelson case, the proposed law would give them one year after the new law becomes effective to file a suit against the abuser and the abuser's employer.

The bill passed the Arizona House, but failed in the Arizona Senate. Victims of sexual abuse in Arizona will have to wait until next year to see if Arizona lawmakers change the laws on bringing lawsuits based on sexual abuse.

If you have been the victim of a sexual abuse, speak to an experienced attorney in your area to learn the options that may be available to you.

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