Catholic Church avoids abuse-deal

The Archdiocese of Los Angeles said on Sunday it would pay people who were sexually abused by priests as children a record $660 million, although some victims regretted it meant church leaders would not face questioning in court.

"I have a mixed reaction," said Steve Sanchez, 47, one of 12 victims who had been scheduled to go to trial.

The deal was the latest chapter in a clergy abuse scandal that has rocked the Roman Catholic Church worldwide, damaging its moral standing and forcing five U.S. diocese to seek bankruptcy protection.

Related Link: Mahony apologizes to plaintiff

Via Reuters

Lewis 'Scooter' Libby

Lewis "Scooter" Libby was one of the highest-ranking White House officials ever to stand criminal trial.

He was sentenced to two-and-a-half years in prison, two years of probation and a fine of $250,000 (£125,000) in June.

But in July, President George W Bush intervened to commute Libby's sentence, describing it as "excessive". As chief aide to Vice-President Dick Cheney, Libby had been involved in almost every major decision made by the Bush administration. He was convicted of all but one of the charges in March 2007.

Via BBC News