The clergy, religious, and laity who serve in the ministries of the Diocese of Biloxi are committed to making Church ministries safe for young people. Allegations of misconduct with minors are reported as the law requires and an internal investigation is conducted.
 
 If you suffered abuse, it was not your fault. If you are a victim of sexual abuse by a priest, deacon, or individual representing the Catholic Church, there are several things you can do: 

• Contact the appropriate law enforcement agency, which can help determine options for making a criminal complaint.
   
• Contact a local child protection agency Mississippi Department of Child Protection Services a private attorney, a support group, an abuse hotline (State of Mississippi’s Hot Line: 1-800-222-8000), or a mental health professional.

• Contact a diocesan victim assistance coordinator who is available to help victims/survivors make a formal complaint of abuse to the diocese. The Victim Assistance Coordinator is also available to arrange a personal meeting with the bishop or his representative and to obtain support for the needs of the individual and families.
   
• If you believe someone is in imminent danger or this is a situation of current abuse involving a minor please call 911.
   
• To report an allegation of abuse or mishandling of allegations of sexual abuse by a bishop please visit the Catholic Bishop Abuse Reporting Service website or call 800-276-1562.

• To report an allegation of abuse by priest, deacon, religious, or lay church personnel, please contact your local Victim Assistance Coordinator or 228-702-2114.

 A copy of the diocesan policy is available on our diocesan website or by contacting your pastor or principal.