Woman settles clergy abuse lawsuit for $1M

HARTFORD, Conn. (AP) — A New London woman who alleged the Norwich Roman Catholic Diocese failed to protect her from childhood sexual abuse by a priest has settled her lawsuit as trial was beginning.

The $1.1 million resolution was announced Thursday in Hartford Superior Court by retiring Judge Robert Holzberg, who helped mediate it.

The woman alleged she was molested by the Rev. Thomas Shea at St. Joseph's Church in New London in 1976. She said the diocese and two officials including retired Bishop Daniel Reilly knew about abuse allegations against Shea and moved him among parishes.

Shea died in 2006. He said his affection for parishioners was misunderstood.

The woman sought compensation for psychological problems. She said she was relieved by the settlement, but disappointed the church didn't apologize.

The diocese has said it's worked to prevent present and future abuses.