FARGO (KFGO) – The Diocese of Fargo has released the names of clergy members with substantiated allegations of sexual abuse of a minor.
There are 31 names on the list. It includes local clergy, as well as clergy from other areas who have worked in the Fargo Diocese.
Diocese of Fargo Bishop John Folda says a substantiated allegation contains “sufficient corroborating evidence” and “reasonable grounds” to believe that the alleged abuse occurred. Folda says “no excuse” can be made for the actions which he calls a “plague in our entire society.”
The list was compiled after a review of more than 1,000 church files dating back to 1950.
A special Diocesan Review Board of volunteers helped compile the list. The diocese says the board members are experts in psychology, social service, law enforcement, and medicine, but the names of the volunteers who serve on the board are being kept secret.
