The long-delayed church trial of Bishop Stewart Ruch has been thrown into turmoil following the abrupt resignation of prosecutor C. Alan Runyan. In a letter dated July 19, Runyan claimed the trial process had been “irreparably tainted,” citing improper conduct by a court member. His exit raises significant questions about the trial’s integrity and future.
Trial Integrity in Question After Unvetted Evidence Introduced
Runyan alleges a court member questioned an expert witness using materials not included in the trial record. He argues this line of inquiry created unwarranted suspicion around the investigative process and violated court rulings that had previously deemed such evidence inadmissible. According to Runyan, this exposure compromised the court’s impartiality.
Archbishop Responds, Sets Timeline for Trial to Resume
Archbishop Steve Wood called the resignation a “significant and regrettable development” and began appointing a new prosecutor. He confirmed the trial will resume on August 11 and acknowledged Runyan’s concerns. Wood’s second announcement included the ruling from the Court for Trial of a Bishop and shared Runyan’s resignation publicly.
Abuse Allegations and Institutional Failures at the Forefront
Ruch, bishop of the ACNA’s Upper Midwest Diocese, faces four formal charges related to alleged mishandling of abuse reports. Critics accuse him of enabling known predators and failing to support victims. Over 10 clergy and lay leaders in the diocese have been accused of misconduct since 2021. Survivors and advocacy group ACNAtoo stress the need for transparency and justice.
Supporters Seek Justice, Critics Demand Reform
Supporters of the trial process fear the resignation could derail long-overdue accountability. Critics, however, argue that Runyan’s claims reveal deeper systemic issues. Both Runyan and the authors of the original charges are calling for the release of the redacted trial transcript. The denomination’s top legal officer, Bill Nelson, affirmed the right to appeal and warned against speculation.
Uncertainty Ahead as Motion and Transparency Requests Await
After Runyan’s departure, Ruch’s team filed a Motion for a Directed Verdict of Not Guilty. The court will decide on the motion once the trial resumes. Whether Runyan’s request to release the redacted transcript will be granted remains uncertain.
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Prosecutor Resigns, Calls ACNA Bishop Stewart Ruch Trial ‘Irreparably Tainted’
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