A reply to the Associated Press story regarding John Salazar

A serious mistake was made in bringing John Salazar to the Diocese of Amarillo for ministry. He was removed from ministry in May 2002 and a petition for laicization was granted in December 2004. After the petition of laicization was granted, it was published in The West Texas Catholic that he had been laicized for sexual misconduct with youth.

For over ten years, the Diocese of Amarillo has implemented and continues to utilize a Safe Environment Program, which is an educational and training program, including background checks, designed for adults and clergy for the prevention of sexual misconduct of children.

Since the Charter for the Protection of Young People, issued in June 2002, the Diocese of Amarillo can affirm that no priest with a credible allegation of sexual misconduct with a youth is functioning as a priest in this Diocese.

Issued by Bishop Patrick J. Zurek, April 15, 2013