Statement from Bishop Stephen E. Blaire

Roman Catholic Diocese of Stockton
April 20, 2012

http://media.modbee.com/smedia/2012/04/20/10/49/1m6C0.So.11.pdf

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Statement from Bishop Stephen E. Blaire

The Diocese of Stockton has reached an agreement to settle a lawsuit alleging sexual abuse by Fr. Michael Kelly.

The Diocese agreed to pay the plaintiff and his attorneys $3.75 million, with $2 million of this amount being paid by the Diocese’s insurance carriers. In response, the plaintiff will dismiss his lawsuit and seek no further action against the Diocese or Fr. Kelly.

The settlement brings an end to litigation that began more than 4-1/2 years ago and that has occupied a great deal of time and focus. We respect the right of everyone to have their day in court and we abide by the decisions that were made.