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Alaska diocese OKs $10 million abuse payout

The Catholic Diocese of Fairbanks in Alaska and representatives of almost 300 alleged victims of sex abuse by clergy have agreed on a settlement of almost $10 million.
/ Source: The Associated Press

The Catholic Diocese of Fairbanks in Alaska and representatives of almost 300 alleged victims of sex abuse by clergy have agreed on a settlement of almost $10 million.

The agreement was discussed at a status hearing Tuesday in federal bankruptcy court and will need to be finalized.

Plaintiffs' attorney Ken Roosa says some of the payoff would be put aside to pursue as much as another $100 million from two of four insurance companies for the diocese that have balked at paying.

The rest would be divided among alleged victims, depending on the severity of abuse.

Complaints of sexual abuse of a minor have been filed in recent years against the diocese, with some allegations dating back 50 years.

The diocese filed for bankruptcy protection last year.