2003 lawsuits against Fr. David A. Roney resolved

New Ulm, MN - Lawsuits were filed in 2003, on behalf of two plaintiffs, against the Diocese of New Ulm and the Church of St. Mary in Willmar, alleging sexual misconduct on the part of the now deceased Fr. David A. Roney. The plaintiffs were minors when the alleged misconduct occurred during the time that Roney was pastor of the Church of St. Mary (1967 - 1980). The lawsuits have now been resolved.

According to Fr. Douglas L. Grams, the Bishop’s Delegate in Matters Pertaining to Sexual Misconduct, on October 6, 2005, the Diocese of New Ulm signed the release forms for the settlement agreement. Article 3 of the Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People forbids a diocese from entering into confidentiality agreements that would bind plaintiffs. However, the Charter does allow confidentiality when it is requested by plaintiffs. The two plaintiffs involved in the settlement agreement have expressed a desire to remain anonymous. Therefore, the Diocese of New Ulm will not reveal their identity or comment on the settlement amount. The monies for the settlement will come from the profits realized from the sale of diocesan property.

The Diocese of New Ulm deeply regrets the long-lasting and devastating effects of sexual misconduct. Such misconduct requires positive action and the diocese has greatly strengthened its systems and procedures to prevent sexual misconduct on the part of church personnel and volunteers.