JAMESTOWN, N.D. (Valley News Live) – A former Jamestown priest changed his plea on Thursday morning, the day his trial was supposed to start for accusations of sexual exploitation.

Neil Joseph Pfeifer pleaded guilty to misdemeanor sexual assault and a felony charge of sexual exploitation by a therapist was dismissed. A second charge of sexual exploitation by a therapist was also previously dismissed.

A woman gave a victim impact statement on Thursday, saying she has contemplated suicide, experienced recurring nightmares of being in the church, and feelings of isolation from her family.

After learning of the charges against Pfeifer, the Fargo Diocese released the following statement:

“The Diocese of Fargo learned of this allegation after receiving the prior allegation of misconduct from Jamestown. We will continue to cooperate with law enforcement, and I encourage anyone with additional information to contact law enforcement officials. Any and all sexual misconduct by those who work for the Church is unacceptable and contrary to our Faith and life in Christ. We continue to pray for all involved.”Bishop John Folda

During the trial, Judge Cherie Clark said, “What strikes this court is the position of moral and emotional authority that the defendant had over a vulnerable victim.”

 at Thursday’s hearing says Pfeifer was held for a time after the hearing and had to be escorted out through the basement of the courthouse due to concerns about a vehicle circling the courthouse.

According to Stutsman County Court documents, Pfeifer was sentenced to serve 9 days in jail, or he can complete 50 hours of community service by September 15. If the community service hours aren’t met, he is ordered to check into the Stutsman County Courthouse on September 15.