Press Release

Diocese of Boise
1 hour ago
3 min read

Inquiry of KTVB on September 3, 2025 and response

The Diocese of Boise recently received a series of questions from Morgan Romero, a reporter from KTVB a local media outlet, indicating that she had received inquiries about additional concerns from some community members about the situation involving Fr. Robert Mendez Esquivel. Recognizing that this matter affects our entire diocesan family, and not just the local Treasure Valley, we are sharing the questions posed and our response. This is being done to reaffirm the Diocese’s desire to be open and transparent as we continue to respond to this matter.

The inquiry of KTVB on September 3^rd, 2025, was:

“Thank you for the efforts the Diocese of Boise has made to be transparent regarding the situation with Father Mendez. I - and our viewers - truly appreciate that openness.

In light of that situation, some community members have raised additional concerns involving the Diocese and both current and former priests. In the spirit of transparency, I was hoping you might be able to provide some clarity on a few points:

Could you share a list of priests who have faced allegations of sexual misconduct since 2010, along with the general nature of those allegations?
How has the Diocese responded to allegations against priests or staff members in the past?
What is the current protocol for members of the Church to report concerns or allegations?
- Who is responsible for handling those reports internally?
Are such allegations ever referred to law enforcement, and if so, under what circumstances?”

The Diocese response to this email inquiry can be found below :

September 4, 2025

Ms. Romero,

Thank you for reaching out to the Diocese of Boise during this challenging time. We are grateful for your role in fostering understanding within our community and for your commitment to addressing matters that impact our faith family. Your inquiries reflect a shared value of transparency, which we hold dear as we strive to shepherd our flock with integrity and compassion, guided by the teachings of Christ.

Regarding the situation involving Fr. Robert Mendez Esquivel, the Diocese is fully cooperating with Idaho authorities as the legal process proceeds. This matter is deeply saddening and represents an anomaly for our Diocese. Our hearts go out to all affected, and we remain committed to pursuing justice and healing with truthfulness and care.

To provide context for the concerns raised by some community members, we note that this is the first current allegation of sexual abuse of a minor, whether ephebophilia (as in this case) or pedophilia, that Bishop Peter has had to addressed in his 18 years as a bishop, both here in Boise and previously in the Diocese of Superior. We are thankful for this rarity and continue to strengthen our safeguarding measures to protect our community.

In response to your specific questions:

On allegations of sexual misconduct since 2010: Early in Bishop Peter’s tenure, the Diocese proactively published a list of clergy credibly accused of misconduct, a step KTVB previously covered along with the list itself. The only subsequent case involved Thomas Faucher, who was subsequently removed from the priesthood, was convicted of possessing and distributing sexually explicit material. No other cases have arisen, reflecting our ongoing commitment to transparency and accountability.
Regarding past responses to allegations: The Diocese has consistently adhered to all civil and canonical laws, as well as established protocols, ensuring thorough and compassionate responses to any concerns raised.
For reporting concerns or allegations: In accordance with the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People, we encourage anyone with concerns to come forward. Reports can be submitted confidentially through our Victim Assistance Coordinator or the chancery office, with clear guidance available on our diocesan website (dioceseofboise.org) under the “Safe Environment” section. Individuals may also contact local law enforcement if they believe a crime has occurred. Reports are handled by a dedicated team, led by the Victim Assistance Coordinator in collaboration with the Bishop’s office, to ensure a prompt and caring response.
On referrals to law enforcement: Any allegation involving potential criminal activity, particularly concerning minors or vulnerable persons, is reported to civil authorities as required by law, underscoring our unwavering commitment to community safety and justice.
Enclosed, please find a copy of the letter sent to all parishes this past weekend, which reaffirms our dedication to safety, healing, and pastoral care. We believe this letter addresses the community’s concerns and reflects our ongoing efforts to uphold trust and faith.