Catholic Church sexual abuse cases: The Diocese of Dallas agrees to pay $23.4 million to nine former altar boys who claim they were sexually abused by Rudolph Kos, a former priest.

Reports of the sexual abuse of minors by Catholic clergy and members of religious orders have been documented in numerous countries. Beginning in the late 20th century, allegations and subsequent investigations revealed long-term patterns of misconduct and, in some instances, failures by Church authorities to address or disclose allegations. Victims were primarily boys, though girls were also affected, with reported ages ranging from early childhood to adolescence. Public awareness increased as many adults came forward years after the alleged incidents, prompting criminal prosecutions, civil litigation, and internal Church reviews.