Bishop Gabriel Malzaire says Rome considered Statute of limitations & age of Monsignor Eustace Thomas in sexual misconduct allegations

​Roman Catholic Bishop Gabriel Malzaire says he is “relieved” that Rome issued its findings, after taking into consideration the Statute of limitations and the age of Monsignor Eustace Thomas in a matter of sexual misconduct allegations, and he hopes both parties can accept the verdict and "move on with their lives."
 
Bishop Malzaire said, "as far as I am concerned, this chapter is closed, both parties have been kept informed all the way while the process was ongoing. When the decision was taken, they were informed so that each party can move on, and so Monsignor Thomas has been informed and also the person involved".
 
Bishop Malzaire explained that The Doctrine of Faith in Rome took into consideration that the accused is over 75 old; that the statute of limitations has passed (based on the laws of the church at that period in time – and no additional complaints were made against the accused to say that he was a threat to minors).
 
Asked if it means that Monsignor Thomas was found guilty of the alleged incident, Bishop Malzaire replied "I can't say he was found guilty, the letter said considering the "alleged allegations"; the letter and recommendations from Rome does not say he was found guilty or not."
 
Meantime, the person at the centre of the allegations against Monsignor Thomas said she is "happy with the results and findings" and thanked all those who stood with her.
 
In his letter to the complainant, Bishop Malzaire wrote: "On behalf of the Church in the Diocese of Roseau, I deeply regret the pain this situation caused you and your family. I am conscious of the fact that it took tremendous courage and strength on your part to pursue this matter, especially as it concerned a member of your family. I pray this will bring closure to the situation, and that you and your family will be able to find the necessary healing and solace