WASHINGTON, April 11 (UPI) -- The number of Catholic priests accused of child sexual abuse and the number of victims rose significantly in 2010, the U.S. Conference of Bishops said Monday.
The sexual abuse by priests grew more expensive for the church, as well, the bishops reported. U.S. dioceses paid out $70.3 million to settle abuse claims last year, an increase of more than $19 million over 2009, their report said.