In a significant development, the Wallis public prosecutor's office has closed a dossier on sexual abuse cases within the Catholic Church, citing statute limitations and the inability to prove facts.

The investigation, initiated in September 2023, involved 625 individuals reporting 32 criminal acts dating back to 1946. Despite the gravity of the allegations, all reported cases were deemed time-barred or lacked timely legal action.

The investigation identified 20 potential perpetrators, with some already deceased and others unidentifiable.

This closure comes amid a broader context of over 1,000 reported abuse cases across Switzerland since the mid-20th century.

Victims expressed their frustration and desire for transparency, hoping such actions will not recur.