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	Agreement in Works in Priest Abuse Case By Debbie Coleman-topi The Examiner August 20, 2008 http://www.examiner.net/news/x996441192/Agreement-in-works-in-priest-abuse-case Eastern Jackson County — A tentative agreement was put in place late Tuesday in which the Catholic diocese of Kansas City-St. Joseph agreed to pay about $10 million to 47 alleged victims of sexual abuse or misconduct, according to a diocese spokesperson. “The conversations have been taking place, but the bishop (Robert Finn) hasn’t executed an agreement,” said Rebecca Summers, director of communications for the diocese. However, the bishop released a letter late Tuesday night to area priests, updating progress on the case. The letter states that diocese officials and legal staff are negotiating a group settlement of all existing lawsuits. The cases involve 47 victims and 12 clergy or former clergy and are said to have occurred between 1951 and 1992, the letter states. Some of those priests and victims were from Eastern Jackson County parishes. “It now appears that we have a tentative settlement agreement, subject to my approval after consultation with the Board of Consultors and the Diocesan Finance Council,” the letter states. The proceeds would be divided between the victims in the case, the letter states. “Based on advice from legal counsel and on prayerful reflection over this most difficult matter, I believe that this settlement, while costly, is a responsible resolution for these individuals and their families and in the best interest of the Diocese,” the letter concludes. Contact: deborah.topi@examiner.net
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