BishopAccountability.org
	Money Stolen from Dm Diocese Bank Account WOI August 31 2010 http://www.woi-tv.com/Global/story.asp?S=13056030 The Diocese of Des Moines wants its money back after thieves stole more than half a million dollars from their bank accounts. Diocese officials told us they fully expect to get all the money back and hope their misfortunate can help others. Criminals, possibly overseas, illegally obtained banking information for accounts at Banker's Trust and were able to give $600,000 to recipients across the country. "Our goal is to help people come closer to god. So the fact that a catholic, service organization like us was robbed, came as a surprise," said diocese spokeswoman Anne Marie Cox. She said between the FBI investigation, Banker's Trust and their insurance carrier they plan to be reimbursed for the total amount stolen. Meanwhile, $180,000 have already been recovered. The diocese has closed the affected accounts and told us people who give them monetary gifts have not had their information compromised. At this time, investigators do not believe any staff were involved in taking the money. "This is the first time that I know of that anything like this situation has happened. In that way perhaps we are blessed," said Cox. It's not all about the money. Looking forward, diocese officials see what good can come out of a terrible crime. "We are grateful they are investigating and hope that as a result there will be less crime in the future," Cox said. The diocese serves more than 97,000 Catholics in 82 parishes spread across 23 Iowa counties. It also runs 18 schools.
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