Deacon Reinstated, Accusations of Abuse with Minor Unfounded

By Cassie Hart
KSTP
October 26, 2014

http://kstp.com/news/stories/S3601440.shtml

A Deacon removed from ministry back in June during an investigation into sexual abuse allegations of a minor has now been reinstated and cleared of any wrongdoing by the church.

Deacon Joseph Damiani has denied the accusation, which alleges he abused a minor more than 40 years ago, decades before he was ordained. The accusation was brought to local law enforcement, and no criminal charges were filed.

According to a statement released by Archbishop John Neinstedt, the Clergy Review Board did an “extensive, diligent and professional view of the allegations” and “was unable to determine conclusively the validity of the underlying allegations.”

The board found no reason to believe Deacon Damiani poses a risk to the health or safety of others, and found him fit for public ministry and recommended he be reinstated.

Deacon Damiani has served as the deacon at Annunciation Catholic Church in Minneapolis, and on staff at Gichitwaa Kateri Catholic Church in Minneapolis in the Office of Indian Affairs since 2009.

The Clergy Review Board is made up of lay people and clergy with expertise in sexual abuse, health care, mental health, law, education, and includes parents and victims of abuse. They serve as a confidential, advisory, consultative body that advises the archbishop and the Episcopal Vicar for Ministerial Standards in their assessment of allegations of sexual abuse of minors by priests and deacons.