Diocesan Policy & Allegation Review

Sexual Abuse of a Minor by a Member of the Clergy

In December 2002, the diocese implemented an updated policy regarding the sexual abuse of a minor by a Catholic clergy member. Under that policy, it was decided that civil authorities will be notified of any allegations of the sexual abuse of a minor. Pending an investigation, any cleric guilty of such an act will be permanently removed from ministry. View the diocesan policy, updated in July 2022.

POLÍTICA DE LA DIÓCESIS DE DES MOINES CON RESPECTO AL ABUSO SEXUAL A MENORES POR UN MIEMBRO DEL CLERO.

Allegation Review Committee & Process

An Allegation Review Committee has been appointed to review allegations of abuse of minors by priests or deacons in the diocese and to make recommendations to the bishop on whether sexual abuse has occurred. If so, the case will be referred to the Vatican and the bishop will be advised if the case should proceed here or at the Vatican.

Allegation Review Process (Spanish)