MINNEAPOLIS (MN)
Star Tribune
February 10, 2021
By Jean Hopfensperger
It’s the state’s last diocese to settle abuse claims.
The Winona-Rochester Diocese announced Wednesday that it had reached a $21.5 million settlement agreement with 145 individuals who were sexually abused by its clergy.
The diocese declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy in 2018, in response to the abuse claims.
The settlement allows it to submit a financial reorganization plan to the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for final approval.
“We must never forget the tragic anguish caused by individuals who abused their power and positions of authority,” said Bishop John Quinn of Winona-Rochester. “We must stay vigilant in our unwavering commitment to protect the youth in our diocese who rely on priests, deacons, religious and lay people to keep them safe and provide for their spiritual care.”
St. Paul attorney Jeff Anderson, who represented many of the survivors, said the settlement will include an additional $6.5 million from the diocese’s insurers.
The Winona-Rochester Diocese is the last Catholic diocese in Minnesota to settle its abuse claims, filed in response to the 2013 Minnesota Child Victims Act which temporarily extended the statute of limitations on abuse cases.
“This is an important day for the survivors,” said Anderson.
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