The problem of unproven, and often unprovable, allegations of serious crimes is an incredibly difficult one. If one relies solely on the criminal standard of proof large numbers of abusers will continue to operate in churches and schools and elsewhere, leaving a trail of wounded people in their wake. If one allows an allegation to stand unless disproven, or relies on the civil standard of proof, more abusers may be stopped, at the cost of ruining the lives of those falsely accused. I don’t know the solution to that, and I’m not sure anyone else does.
The problem of unproven, and often unprovable, allegations of serious crimes is an incredibly difficult one. If one relies solely on the criminal standard of proof large numbers of abusers will continue to operate in churches and schools and elsewhere, leaving a trail of wounded people in their wake. If one allows an allegation to stand unless disproven, or relies on the civil standard of proof, more abusers may be stopped, at the cost of ruining the lives of those falsely accused. I don’t know the solution to that, and I’m not sure anyone else does.
Clear procedure, followed without fear or favour or shortcuts, is very important and protective to all concerned