No rational person would doubt mishandlings.
This is no minor issue. The mishandling of potentially 1000s of cases over many decades meant added pain and suffering to countless victims. These victims are real people Bobby, not just statistics. Individuals that have been inflicted with severe and lasting emotional trauma, not only from the perpetrators, but also from witnessing the religion that they thought to be directed by holy spirit carrying out procedures that resulted in harm to themelselves and to others.
As to the cover up, the evidence is out there for all to see. You and I both know how important image and reputation are to Watchtower. But who knows, maybe we will one day see a "real judge" clear the matter up.