JURIST - Paper Chase: Portland archdiocese to file for bankruptcy in face of civil litigation

The Archdiocese of Portland in Oregon announced Tuesday that it will file for bankruptcy, making it the first Roman Catholic diocese to do so in the face of sexual abuse accusations. The Portland Archdiocese Chapter 11 bankruptcy action will halt an abuse case scheduled to begin Tuesday afternoon. The archdiocese currently faces two lawsuits where plaintiffs are seeking damages in excess of $160 million as well as dozens of other pending claims. AP has the full story.

UPDATE: The Portland Archdiocese has this letter from the Archbishop announcing that the Archdiocese is filing for bankruptcy. The Oregonian provides local coverage of the announcement.