We can forgive.
He is still disqualified.
Agreed.
However our forgiveness does not shield the man from legal reprecussions. The Wartburg Watch pointed out that the State of Texas (where the incident took place) does not have a statute of limitations for this particular offence. The guy is still subject to being charged under Texas Law.
Aside from that, clergy are mandated reporters of real or suspected abuse in Texas and under Federal Law.
George W. Bush as Governor of Texas forgave Karla Faye Tucker, but still signed her execution order.
i am often reminded that the Westminster Confession of Faith (OPC Version linked here) addresses the matter of the civil magistrate and states in paragraph 4 that we are subject to civil authorities, in accordance with Romans 13.
So yeah, forgiven, but still subject to civil investigation.
Not only this, but the Confession also recognises the limitations of the Church, and Jesus' command to Give therefore to Caesar the things which are Caesar's and give unto God those things which are God's --Matthew 22:21 1599 Geneva Bible-- Specifically, in this case, the church is NOT empowered to do criminal investigations. That is a prerogative of Caesar. This matter should have been reported to the local magistrate when it happened. The church had no business dealing with it. Even a church discipline issue would have been moot once the criminal investigation had been completed.
He is still disqualified.
Absolutely. Once violating the requirements for ministers of the gospel, that person is forever disqualified from holding such a position ever again. Actions have consequences as much as our society today --even "Christian" society-- does not wish to admit that.