Public Defender Demands Investigation into Allegations Voiced against Clergy

Public Defender Nino Lomjaria urges the law enforcement agencies to launch a probe into allegations of harassment and coercion committed by clergy, noting that the allegations contain signs of actions punishable by the Criminal Code of Georgia.

“In recent days, some clergymen have stated via the media that they are aware of alleged sexual harassment and coercion committed by clergy. They also indicated that some of those actions might have been committed against minors.

"The allegations contain signs of actions punishable by the Criminal Code of Georgia. Accordingly, I urge the law enforcement agencies to launch a probe into each allegation. I also urge anyone who is aware of alleged criminal actions to immediately report to the appropriate authorities. I would like to publicly call on both the authors of the statements and those who have any information to contact the Public Defender's Office in order to allow us to gather complete information around the issue and verify it. Confidentiality will be guaranteed upon request”, she said.

By Ana Dumbadze