The Archdiocese of Chicago has agreed to release thousands of internal documents that detail its internal handling of child sexual abuse by clergy members. The documents will be turned over to victims’ attorneys as part of a settlement in scores of cases. Bishop Francis Kane of Chicago called the documents’ release a step toward healing past crimes, while victims’ advocate Barbara Dorris said they could help uncover predators who escaped punishment.

Bishop Francis Kane: “By offering these documents, we hope to heal all of those afflicted by this terrible, terrible crime. We hope that it will bring healing to the victims and their families and to all the good and dedicated people who serve the faithful of the Archdiocese every day.”

Barbara Dorris: “The community here needs to know where these predators are. Many of these predators have never been sued and therefore will not be on the list, and that leaves children in Chicago at risk.”

Attorneys for the victims say they expect to make the documents public next week.