October22,2024
TO: Mr. Eric Bonetti
FROM: The Reference Panel of the Diocese of Atlanta
SUBJECT: Title IV Complaint against Rev. Benjamin Day
Reference Panel Determination to the Complainant
In the matter of the Title IV Complaint against The Rev. Benjamin Day by Eric Bonetti referred to the Reference Panel on July 11, 2024 and referred by the Reference Panel for investigation on July 12, 2024
After reviewing the report of the investigation, the Reference Panel, with advice from the Church Attorney, is recommending a Pastoral Response, pursuant to Canon 11(3) and Canon 8 of Title IV.
This matter was forwarded to the Reference Panel by the Intake Officer designated for the matter. Pursuant to Canons IV.11 and IV.6.8(c), an extensive investigation was undertaken by an investigator appointed by the Diocese. This investigation included several interviews of possible witnesses and of the Complainant. During the investigation, no person presented to the investigator facts based on their personal knowledge, or otherwise reliable evidence, substantiating the existence of the alleged wrongdoing. The Respondent denied the alleged wrongdoing. The individual towards whom the Respondent allegedly acted wrongfully denied that this occurred and indicated that she was not a victim of misconduct. Although an individual was claimed to have suffered harm from the allegedly inappropriate relationship that is the focus of the charge, that individual declined to provide to the investigator any evidence that would support such a claim. No evidence contradicting these denials that was based on personal knowledge or that was shown to be otherwise reliable was presented or discovered.
Accordingly, pursuant to Canon IV.6.8(a), no further action shall be taken other than any further appropriate pastoral response. Pastoral care has already been provided to or offered to certain individuals. Any person connected with this matter who would benefit from a further pastoral response should contact the Intake Officer.