According to a release from the diocese, the individual had accused retired Father William Dinga, Jr. of child sexual abuse earlier this year.

Now that the accusation has been recanted, Dinga is considered exonerated of wrongdoing.

Dinga has maintained his innocence throughout this process concerning the allegations that allegedly occurred at Christ the King Catholic Church in Norfolk in 1986.

The release says the diocese is striving to remain transparent regarding any child sexual abuse claims that are brought and it will publicly clear the accused of wrongdoing when that person is subjected to mistaken or unsupported allegations.

As a result of his exoneration, the diocese has restored Dinga's position and status to what he held before the allegations.