You are correct Pan.  However, protecting the myth of the celibate priesthood has led to a proven fact that pedophiles in the priesthood can operate with impunity in order to avoid scandal for the faithful, and that dynamic has happened for too long a time.  Thank God that is changing, but all it would take in any given diocese is a bishop who truly thinks protecting the Church from scandal is the primary mission.  At that point the silent circle of protection would start all over again.