Only in "Rzeczpospolita": Updated list of priests suspected and convicted of sexual crimes during the PRL era

Polish bishops took over three years to establish a commission to investigate sexual abuse of minors by clergy. Journalists from "Rzeczpospolita" began examining this issue in 2021, uncovering at least 135 cases from the communist era involving clergy. Their research revealed that 129 priests and two laypersons were implicated, with 76 cases resulting in convictions. The total number of victims is estimated at a minimum of 1200, with the actual figure likely much higher due to underreporting. The investigation included state archives and church records, highlighting the involvement of various clergy members in these abuses. Recent updates to the list of cases have added new findings, including convictions and unresolved cases.