For Immediate Release to the Press

November 28, 2007
Contact: Sr. Terry Davis
209.464.0636

STATEMENT FROM BISHOP STEPHEN BLAIRE

I wish to announce that the lawsuit brought against the Diocese and the Oblates of St. Francis de Sales claiming childhood sexual abuse by Father Murty Fahy, a deceased member of the Oblates, has been dismissed without prejudice.

In response to the claim, the Diocese conducted a thorough investigation. This was made more difficult by the fact that Father Fahy is deceased and unable to defend himself. The investigation did not reveal any facts which suggested that Father Fahy had ever acted improperly toward children.

We know that the many people who knew and admired Father Fahy will find comfort in this news.

I am most grateful to Father Fahy and the Oblates of St. Francis de Sales for their dedicated service to the people of our Diocese.

Last Update December 6, 2007