The Diocese of New Ulm (Minn.) yesterday announced a $34 million settlement agreement with clergy sexual abuse victims and survivors in its chapter 11 bankruptcy case, the Marshall Independent reported. New Ulm Diocese Bishop John M. LeVoir said that the settlement is fair and represents years of respectful negotiations with those representing victims and survivors while continuing essential church ministry. Jeff Anderson & Associates, the firm representing many of the New Ulm survivors, said the $34 million will be paid to 93 sexual abuse claimants. These claims were filed against the diocese during the three-year term set up by the Minnesota Child Victims Act, which lifted the statute of limitations on historical childhood sexual abuse claims. The diocese filed for financial reorganization under chapter 11 in March 2017, under the supervision of the Federal Bankruptcy Court. According to the diocesan website, the diocese has been working with the victims and survivors of clergy sexual abuse to resolve claims made against the New Ulm Diocese and parishes within the geographic area.
