The court-ordered mediation between the Archdiocese of Milwaukee and victims of sexual abuse has failed, sending the parties back to bankruptcy court to resume legal negotiations, the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reported today. The church and victims — at 575 members, they represent the largest class of creditors in the bankruptcy — have been in court-ordered mediation since July 20. Victims attorney Jeffrey Anderson confirmed Monday that the mediation had failed but declined to elaborate on the sticking points, citing the confidentiality of the proceedings. The archdiocese filed for chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in January 2011, saying that it was the only way to equitably compensate victims and still continue the church’s ministry. Bankruptcy Judge Susan V. Kelley ordered both sides into mediation in July.
