BREAKING NEWS UPDATE: Pennsylvania’s long running effort to revise its outdated SOL for childhood sexual abuse FAILED again because State Senate Majority Leader Kim Ward REFUSED to send the SOL reform bill to the floor. Visit the United Front for PA SOL Reform for updated information.
Read Marci Hamilton’s piece: With HB951 Tabled for the Summer, There Is No Summer Vacation for the Victims of Child Sex Abuse in Pennsylvania
Anyone who was sexually abused as a child in Pennsylvania must take action now. Time is very limited.
Call us now at 888-811-8689
Todd Hodne – Penn State Football Player
Todd Hodne was perhaps the most dangerous predator ever to play college football. Hodne arrived in State College in 1977 as a prized recruit from New York’s Long Island, and in 1978, he was the Penn State Rapist. There were other rapes and rapists; Penn State, in the mid- and late seventies, was enduring an epidemic of sexual assault that female students of the day still talk about. But even against that backdrop, Hodne’s rapes and attacks stand out because he was a football player who, according to one family member, “had no control over his dark impulses.” He was big and strong, entitled and enabled. He was driven and determined and a little desperate. He was also cruel, the most predatory of predators, a hunter who liked to linger.
Read more about Hodne in this ESPN special report.
Guy Caley – West Penn Hospital
A nuclear medicine technologist at the Allegheny Health Network’s West Penn Hospital was recently arrested for photographing and videoing women during routine medical exams. Guy Caley allegedly planted cameras in the employee bathroom and patient examination rooms. According to an affidavit, back in December 2019, a recording device was discovered in a unisex employee bathroom at Penn Hospital. An investigation led to Caley who recently turned himself in to authorities.
In early September, a month after the initial charges, Mr. Caley was charged with an additional 41 counts of intercept communications and 42 counts of invasion of privacy — a sum total of 89 charges.
A twenty-year employee of the Allegheny Health Network, Caley is likely to have victimized hundreds of patients during that time period. The Allegheny county district attorney is investigating and has filed criminal charges against Guy Caley who lives in Canonsburg, Pennsylvania. According to his LinkedIn profile, Caley also worked at Dynamic Metro in Allentown.
If you were a patient at Allegheny Health Network during the past twenty years and encountered Guy Caley, please contact our Canonsburg office at Southpointe Town Center immediately at 412-314-4948 for a free consultation. You may have a right to compensation even if you were not aware of Caley’s illicit activities. We are currently representing victims of Caley’s criminal behavior. Our firm only represents victims and survivors.
April Every Month is Sexual Assault Awareness Month
For Emotional Help and Support Visit
MEN: chat with a trained professional, 24/7, anonymous & free at 1in6
Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN) Sexual Assault Hotline
Call 800-656-4673 to be connected with a trained staff member from a sexual assault service provider in your area
Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Report
Pennsylvania Attorney Gener… by on Scribd
Diocese of Allentown
Thomas J. Bender
5/1961-6/1962 : St. Joseph, Ashland, PA
6/1962-6/1965: St. Joseph, Girardville, PA
6/1965-6/1966: Holy Family, New Philadelphia, PA
6/1965-6/1966 : Marian High School, Tamaqua, PA
6/1966-6/1971 : Nativity High School, Pottsville, PA
6/1966-1/1970 : St. Kiern, Heckscherville, PA
1/1970-6/1970 : St. Mary, St. Clair, PA
6/1970-6/1971 : St. John the Baptist, Pottsville, PA
6/1971-10/1971: Bethlehem Catholic HS, Bethlehem, PA
10/1971- 12/1972: St. Francis Orphanage, Orwigsburg, PA
12/1972-2/1982 Our Lady of Good Counsel, Gordon, PA
6/1973-2/1982: Diocese of Tribunal, Allentown, PA
2/1982-6/1986 Most Blessed Sacrament, Bally
6/1983-6/1987: Liturgical Commission, Diocese of Allentown
6/1986-6/1987: St. Francis of Assisi, Allentown, PA
6/1987- 7/1987: St. Anthony of Padua, Easton, PA
6/1987- 7/1987: Northampton Deanery, Ministry to Aging
7/1987: Regional Director, Council of Catholic Nurses
7/24/1987: Leave of Absence
3/01/2002: Retired
5/06/2005: Dismissed from priesthood
Summary: A review of information received from the Diocese of Allentown indicates that the church was aware of Father Thomas J. Bender’s predatory behavior as early as 1972, when Bender was caught in a car with a male student from Nativity High School, where Bender was assigned.
In 1984, a known victim reported that Bender abused him in 1981, while the victim was in seventh grade. The victim reported that he was abused in Bender’s bed, where oral and anal sex occurred. Bender admitted to abusing the victim. He was sent to psychotherapy but again continued to serve as a priest.In 1987, Bender was put on a leave of absence. He was eventually arrested, convicted and sentenced to probation.
In 2006, while collecting retirement benefits from the church, Bender was arrested in Long Island, New York, while traveling to meet what he believed was a 14-year-old boy for sex. The “boy” was an undercover detective.
James Gaffney
5/1985 – 6/1987: St. Ursula, Fountain Hill, PA
6/1987 – 6/1991: Reading Central Catholic High School
6/1987 – 1/1992: St. Catherine of Siena, Mt. Penn, PA
1/1992 – 6/1992: Sick Leave (The Servants of the Paraclete, New Mexico)
6/1992 – 1/1995: St. Jane Frances de Chantal, Easton, PA
4/1994 – 1/1995: Sick Leave (The Servants of the Paraclete)
1/1995 – 2/1995: Notre Dame of Bethlehem, Bethlehem, PA
2/1995 – 6/1995: St. Mary of the Assumption, Coaldale, PA
6/1995 – 6/1999: Assisted with six parishes in Shenandoah
6/1999 – 4/2002: St. Patrick, Pottsville
4/2002 – Abandoned ministry
6/26/2015 – Dismissed from Priesthood
Summary: Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, Gaffney was reported to have been involved in inappropriate and even sexual relations with adult women, one of which had a learning disability and whom he was counseling.
Another victim reported that Gaffney was giving her counseling for depression and he took advantage of her. He eventually had her submit to intercourse with him.
A third victim also came forward.
Joseph Galko
5/1980 – 6/1982: St. Paul, Reading, PA
6/1982 – 1/1983: St. Anne, Bethlehem, PA
1/1983 – 6/1986: St. Ambrose, Schuylkill Haven, PA
6/1986 – 7/1987: St. Bernard, Easton, PA
2/12/1988 – Placed on Administrative leave
6/2010 – Dismissed from the Priesthood
Summary: Father Joseph Galko was ordained and began work in the Diocese in 1980. Records received from the Diocese indicate that, as early as 1984, the Diocese was aware of inappropriate sexual conduct by Galko.
Galko admitted to the Diocesan Chancellor in 1984 to having sexual contact with a male parishioner who was eighteen at the time. Galko also admitted that, while at St. Ambrose in Schuylkill Haven, Schuylkill County, he inappropriately touched a male while they were in the rectory. Galko performed oral sex on the male and had the male perform oral sex on him. Galko further admitted to “occasional occurrences” over a span of many years.
Edward George Ganster
4/13/1971 – 8/19/1975: Assistant Pastor, Notre Dame, Bethlehem, PA
4/13/1971 – 2/4/1972: Associate Professor, Bethlehem Catholic High School, PA
7/9/1973 – 10/10/1978: Regional Director, C.Y. 0., Bethlehem District
8/19/1975 – 9/9/1976: Assistant, Our Lady of Perpetual Help, Bethlehem, PA
9/9/1976 – 10/10/1978: St. Joseph, Easton, PA
10/10/1978 – 6/15/1981: Assistant, St. Ignatius Loyola, Sinking Spring, PA
10/10/1978 – 6/15/1981: American Catholic Overseas Aid Fund
6/15/1981 – 5/4/1982: Pastor, St. Joseph, Frackville, PA
9/18/1981 – 4/2919/1986: Catholic Daughters of the Americas Court St. James
10/08/1981 – 2/1/1982: Sick Leave
2/1/1982 – 5/4/1982: Returned as Pastor, St. Joseph, Frackville, PA
5/4/1982 – 9/7/1982: Sick Leave
9/7/1982 – 1/18/1983: Assistant, St. Ambrose, Schuylkill Haven, PA
10/01/1982 – 7/25/1983: Catholic Student Advisor, Penn State University Campus Ministry
1/18/1983 – 4/29/1986: Pastor, SS. Peter and Paul, Tower City, PA
1/13/1984: Member, Diocesan Building Committee
2/10/1984 – 4/29/1986: Member, Budget Board, Cardinal Brennan High School
4/29/1986 – 3/3/1988: Holy Ghost, Bethlehem, PA
7/10/1986 – 6/13/1988: Regional Director, Pro-Life, Northampton Deanery, PA
12/27/1987 – Sick Leave
8/8/1990 – Laicized
7/3/2014 – Deceased
Summary: A male reported that when he was when he was 14 years old and an altar boy at St. Joseph in Frackville, he was fondled and groped by Father Edward George Ganster. On one occasion, Ganster dragged the boy across a living room floor, pulling him by the underwear. Ganster also beat the victim repeatedly, once using a metal cross. The abuse at the hands of Ganster lasted for over one and a half years and all happened in St. Joseph’s Rectory. The victim made a second report to the Diocese in March 2004.
Ganster eventually left the priesthood to get married, but there were other victims who came forward.
The Diocese later wrote Ganster a reference letter while he was seeking employment at Walt Disney World. With the positive reference from the diocese, Ganster was hired by Walt Disney World and worked there for 18 years.
Francis T. Gilespie
5/1959 – 5/1963: St. Joseph’s, Girardville, PA
5/1963 – 10/1965: Nativity HS, Pottsville, PA
6/1963 – 9/1963: St. Patrick’s, Pottsville, PA (Asst. Pro Tem)
6/1965 – 3/1969: Notre Dame of Bethlehem, Bethlehem, PA
3/1966 – 5/1972: St. Jane Frances de Chantal, Easton, PA / Moravian College (student advisor)
5/1972 – 11/1974: Our lady of Mount Carmel, Minersville, PA
11/1974 – 9/1994: St. Joseph’s, Girardville, PA
9/1994 – 11/1996: St. Margaret, Reading, PA
11/1996 – 12/2002: Annunciation of B.V.M., Catasauqua, PA
12/13/2002 – Retired
Summary: In September 2002, a victim wrote a letter reporting sexual abuse by Father Francis T. Gillespie. The victim reported that, while he was an altar boy at about the age of ten at St. Joseph’s in Girardville, Gillespie began grooming him for future abuse.
The victim reported that he stayed the night at Gillespie’s residence on several occasions. The victim reported that Gillespie would drink alcohol during the sleepovers. The victim recalled an occasion when Gillespie gave him cold medication and in addition had him drink alcohol. The victim described this night as a “blackout” and “confusing.” The victim recalls waking up naked in bed with Gillespie who had his arm around the victim. In three separate documents regarding the victim, all provided by the Diocese, the victim reported that Gillespie performed oral sex on him.
Edward R. Graff
06/1955 – 04/1957: Annunciation B.V.M., Shenandoah
04/1957 – 05/1958: St. Anthony of Padua, Easton
05/1958 – 09/1958: St. Elizabeth’s, Pen Argyl
09/1958 – 09/1959: Pius X High School, Roseto
09/1959 – 06/1962: Residence, St. Anthony, Easton
06/1962 – 09/1963: University of Notre Dame
09/1963 – 03/1964: Our Lady Help of Christians, Allentown
03/1964 – 07/1964: St. Elizabeth, Pen Argyl
07/1964 – 02/1965: Pius X High School, Roseto
02/1965 – 11/1966: Holy Rosary, Reading; Central Catholic High School, Reading
11/1966 – 08/1968: Holy Name High School, Reading
08/1968 – 10/1969: St. Margaret, Reading
10/1969 – 04/1971: St Peter, Coplay
04/1971 – 04/1974: Annunciation B.V.M., Catasauqua
04/1974 – 11/1979: Director, Thanksgiving Clothing Drive
11/1979 – 07/1980: Sick Leave
07/1980 – 06/1983: St. Margaret, Reading
06/1983 – 02/1992: Holy Guardian Angels, Reading
02/1992 – Departed Diocese of Allentown
1992 – 2002 – Served in various capacities in Dioceses in New Mexico and Texas
Summary: During his years in ministry, Graff raped scores of children. The grand jury investigated not only Graff’s conduct but the knowledge of the relevant Dioceses. The case of Graff is an example of dioceses that minimized the criminal conduct of one of their priests, while secretly noting the significant danger the priest posed to the public.
The grand jury notes that the use of euphemisms was constant throughout the Dioceses of Pennsylvania, but particularly apparent in the case of Graff. Terms such as “sick leave” or “health leave” were often used to reference an absence from ministry related to child sexual abuse.
Richard J. Guiliani
3/1968 – 5/1968: Assistant, St. Peter, Reading, PA
5/1968 – 6/1969: Regional Director, Thanksgiving Clothing Drive, Berks Co.
6/1969 – 9/1969: Assistant, St. Canicus, Mahanoy City, PA
9/1969 – 6/1970: Assistant, Our Lady of Perpetual Help, Bethlehem, PA
6/1970 – 6/1970: Professor, Notre Dame High School, Easton, PA
6/1970 – 6/1973: Resident, Sacred Heart, Miller Heights, PA
6/1973 – 6/1974: Vice Principal, Notre Dame High School, Easton, PA
6/1974 – 6/1974: Principal, Cardinal Brennan High School, Fount Springs
6/1974 – 6/1974: Resident, St. Vincent de Paul, Girardville, PA.
1977 – Absent without leave from the Allentown Diocese
2011 – Last known address: St. Augustine, Florida
Summary: In October 2003, a victim wrote to Bishop Edward Cullen stating that she had been sexually abused by Father Richard Guiliani. The victim was abused from the ages of 14 to 18.
Guiliani began with hugging and kissing the victim. He then began to fondle the victim’s genitals through her clothing.
The victim recalled Guiliani telling her that he would protect her, that she could trust him, and that she should keep coming to him for help. Guiliani told the victim she deserved to be “cared for and loved.”
The victim recalled the last time she had contact with Guiliani was when she was a freshman in college. He wanted to have sex with the victim and asked her to marry him. The victim refused to have further sexual involvement with Guiliani and declined his marriage proposal. He never contacted her again.
Joseph D. Hulko
6/1/1967 – 8/24/1970: Priest Professor, Reading Central Catholic High School
6/1/1967 – 8/17/1970: Resident, SS Cyril and Methodius, Reading, PA
7/9/1969 – Advocate, Diocesan Tribunal
7/6/1970 – 8/17/1970: Newman Center, Bethlehem, PA
8/17/1970 – 8/24/1970: Resident, St. Catharine of Siena, Reading, PA
8/24/1970 – 6/20/1977: Principal, Nativity High School, Pottsville, PA
8/24/1970 – 6/18/1971: Resident, Mary Queen of Peace, Pottsville, PA
6/18/1971 – 10/18/1971: Chaplain, St. Francis Orphanage, Orwigsburg, PA
10/18/1971 – 6/20/1977: Resident, St. John the Baptist, Pottsville, PA
6/20/1977 – 1/6/1978: Assistant, St. John the Baptist, Pottsville, PA
1/6/1978 – 8/16/1982: Pastor, St. Michael, Lansford, PA
6/20/1978 – 10/1/1982: Regional Director, Family Life Center, Berks, Carbon and East Schuylkill Counties, PA
9/4/1981 – 2/15/1982: Sick Leave
8/16/1982 – 6/20/1985: Sick Leave
6/20/1985 – 6/16/1987: Assistant Pastor, St. Margaret, Reading, PA
11/1/1986 – 11/1/1989: Assistant Pastor Representative, Council of Priests
6/16/1987 – 9/27/1988:Assistant Pastor, St. John Baptist de LaSalle, Shillington, PA
9/27/1988 – 6/14/1990: Assistant Pastor, St. Bernard, Easton, PA
11/1/1989 – 10/31/1992: Pastor Representative, Council of Priests
6/14/1990 – 9/2/1994:Assistant Professor, St. Joseph, Limeport, PA
8/3/1992 – Assistant Pastor Representative, Advisory Committee, Priestly Life and Ministry
11/1/1992 – 10/31/1995: Assistant Pastor Representative, Council of Priests
9/2/1994 – 1/01/1995: Assistant Pastor, Our Lady of Perpetual Help, Bethlehem, PA
1/1/1995 – 6/15/1995: Resident, Holy Family Villa,
6/15/1995 – 6/13/2000: Assistant Pastor, St. Anthony of Padua, Easton, PA
6/13/2000 – 8/31/2003:Assistant Pastor, Notre Dame of Bethlehem, Bethlehem, PA
9/1/2003 – Retired
Summary: In September 2003, Father Joseph Hulko admitted to the Diocese that he sexually abused a minor female while he was the Chaplain at St. Francis Orphanage in Orwigsburg, between June 1971 and October 1971. Hulko expressed that he had been troubled by it for a number of years, which prompted him to admit the abuse.
Hulko described himself as a “sex addict.”
Prior to Hulko admitting to the sexual abuse of a minor, he was sent for “treatment” six different times between 1982 and 2003.
In a memorandum dated January 15, 2015, a monsignor wrote to administrative personnel that Hulko had moved to Robertsville, Missouri, and “please send his pension checks directly to him.”
Joseph H. Kean
3/1964 – 8/1964: St. Joseph, Ashland, PA
8/1964 – 6/1965: St. Mary, St. Clair, PA
6/1965 – 11/1967: St. Paul, Allentown, PA
1/1967 – 8/1970: St. Paul, Reading, PA
8/1970 – 2/1971: Annunciation, Shenandoah, PA
2/1971 – 12/1973: Marian HS, Tamaqua, PA
2/1971 – 12/1973: Our Lady of Mt. Carmel, Nesquehoning, PA
6/1973 – 6/1975: St. Simon and Jude, Bethlehem, PA
6/1975 – 1/1977: St. Jane, Easton, PA
1/1977 – 1/1983: SS Peter and Paul, Tower City, PA
1/1983 – 9/1987: SS Peter and Paul, Lehighton, PA
9/1987 – 3/1993: St. Joseph, Ashland, PA
2/1/2002 – Retired
6/26/2007 – Dismissed from Priesthood
Summary: On December 22, 1992, Reverend Francis J. Shuster wrote a letter to Bishop Thomas J. Welsh. Shuster related that he had been in contact with a parishioner who told him that her son was molested by Father Joseph H. Kean, then Pastor in Tower City. The sexual abuse was reported to have occurred when the victim was twelve years old and continued for several years.
Thomas J. Kerestus
6/11/1969 – 10/27/1969: Assistant, Annunciation B.V.M., Shenandoah, PA
10/27/1969 – 1/6/1970: Regional Director, C.Y.O., Mid -Schuylkill County
1/6/1970 – 8/24/1970: Area Chaplain, Appalachian Trail Scouting Council
8/24/1970 – 6/18/1970: Regional Director, Bishop’s Overseas Aid, East Schuylkill County, PA
6/18/1970 – 7/8/1971: Assistant, St. Peter, Reading, PA
7/8/1971 – 11/4/1974: Assistant, Our Lady of Hungary, Northampton, PA
11/4/1974 – 9/9/1976: Regional Director, C.Y.O., Northampton County, PA
9/9/1976 – 12/15/1977: Assistant, Sacred Heart, W. Reading, PA
12/15/1977 – 2/25/1982: Assistant, St. Ambrose, Schuylkill Haven, PA; Regional Director, C.Y.O. West Schuylkill County, PA;
2/25/1982 – 5/29/1986: Pastor, St. John Capistrano, Bethlehem, PA
5/29/1986 – 6/19/1986: Leave of absence
6/19/1986 – 6/14/1990: Assistant Pastor, Sacred Heart, Allentown, PA
6/14/1990 – 7/27/1993: Chaplain, Sacred Heart Hospital, Allentown, PA
7/27/1993 – 3/1/2002: Resident, Holy Family Villa
3/1/2002 – 9/17/2014: Retired
Summary: Records of the Diocese of Allentown revealed that parishioners of St. John Capistrano in Bethlehem wrote multiple letters to Bishop Welsh between March 1985 and April 1986 informing him of their concern about Father Thomas Kerestus’ relationship with a 16 -year-old boy.
At least three victims came forward reporting sexual abuse by Kerestus.
Francis Joseph McNelis
6/1/1965 – 6/1/1966: Annunciation B.V.M., Shenandoah, PA
6/1/1966 – 11/1/1966: St. Joseph, Girardville, PA
11/1/1966 – 8/4/1967: Regional Director, C.Y.O., East Schuylkill County, PA
8/4/1967 – 6/11/1969: Regional Director, Thanksgiving Clothing Drive, East Schuylkill County, PA
6/11/1969 – 6/3/1970: St. Jerome, Tamaqua, PA
6/3/1970 – 6/9/1970: St. Theresa, Hellertown, PA
6/9/1970 – 9/25/1970: Regional Director, C.Y.O., Northampton County, PA
9/25/1970 – 4/4/1972: St. John the Baptist, Shillington, PA
4/4/1972 – 9/19/1972: St. Francis, Easton, PA
9/19/1972 – 8/30/1974: Regional Director, Thanksgiving Clothing Drive, Northampton County, PA
8/30/1974 – 6/17/1975: St. Ann, Emmaus, PA
6/17/1975 – 6/16/1980: St. Mary, and St. Boniface, St. Clair, Schuylkill County, PA
6/16/1980 – 6/20/1985: St. Mary, St. Clair, Schuylkill County, PA
6/20/1985 – 6/4/1993: St. Mary, Hamburg, PA
6/4/1993 – 1/14/1994: Sick Leave (Jemez Springs, New Mexico)
1/14/1994 – 3/1/2002: St. Ignatius, Loyola, Sinking Spring, PA
3/1/2002 – Retired
Summary: In December 1992, a known victim reported that, between 1966 and 1968, Father Francis McNelis sexually abused him when he was between the ages of 10 and 13. McNelis told the victim he wanted to have anal sex with him, but that did not occur.
Other victims came forward and said McNeils forcibly performed oral sex on them.
Gabriel Patil
6/3/1974: Permission to exercise mission within Diocese
Summary: Father Gabriel Patil, a priest of the Clerics Regular of St. Paul, known as the Barnabites, was given permission to exercise his ministry within the Diocese of Allentown. The Diocese provided no other assignment history.
Correspondence between the Diocese and the Barnabites shows that, in 2003, a victim reported to the Diocese that he and four of his friends were abused by Patil. The abuse occurred on the property of the Bethlehem Catholic High School during the late 1970’s and early 1980’s, when the victims were seven to nine years old.
The victim reported that he and the four other known victims were living near the high school at the time. Patil would invite the boys into his residence at the high school and play hide and seek with the boys. While playing hide and seek Patil would have the boys sit on his lap. He would open the boys’ pants and fondle their genitals. It is important for you to note the following.
The reported noted that Father Patil is not a priest of the Diocese of Allentown. He is a member of the Barnabite Fathers religious order, not under the supervision of the Diocese of Allentown.
Patil went on to serve as a priest in Buffalo, New York, Youngstown, Ohio, and then with a delegation in the country of India. In 2010, Patil requested that he be allowed to return to the Diocese and exercise his public ministry. The Diocese did not permit Patil to return.
Henry Paul
Summary: Father Henry Paul was ordained in 1941 as a religious priest from an Order known as the Oblates of St. Francis de Sales. He worked in various positions in the Pennsylvania Dioceses of Erie, Philadelphia, and Allentown, the New York Dioceses of Buffalo and New York City, and Salesianum School in Wilmington, Delaware.
An individual reported that Paul took the little girls to the rectory and kissed them. One girl went home and told her mother that she knew how to “French kiss.” When the mother asked how the little girl knew that, she responded that Father Paul had showed her.
Three or four other children reported that they had kissed Paul and, while they did not use the term, they described a French kiss. None of the children were over the age of 12.
Paul G. Puza
6/1975 – 6/1976: St. Bernard, Easton, PA
6/1975 – 6/1976: Lafayette college, Easton, PA
6/1976 – 6/1977: Northampton County Regional Director of Vocations
6/1976 – 6/1977: St. Anne, Bethlehem, PA
6/1977 – 6/1978: Central Catholic High School, Reading, PA
6/1977 – 6/1978: St. Joseph, Reading, PA
6/1978 – 6/1981: St. Casimir, Shenandoah, PA
6/1978 – 6/1981: Catholic Scouting, Schuylkill County, PA
6/1981 – 11/1981: St. Anthony, Easton, PA
11/1985 – 8/1983: St. Stanislaus Kostka, Minersville, PA
8/1983 – 6/1989: St. Anthony of Padua, Cumbola
8/1983 – 6/1989: Nativity B.V.M. High School, Pottsville, PA
6/1989 – 2/2002: St. Richard, Barnesville, PA
6/1989 – 3/2002: Marian High School, Tamaqua, PA
2002: Resigned and ordered to refrain from public ministry
6/2010: Dismissed from Priesthood
Summary: On September 9, 1991, a former seminarian from the Diocese met with Bishop Welsh and told him that he was molested three times, involving oral sex, by Father Paul Puza when he was in the eighth grade.
Dennis A. Rigney
5/21/1966 – 6/01/1966: Ordained in Cathedral of St. Cathedral of Siena, Allentown, PA. by Bishop McShea
6/1/1966 – 6/1/1966: St. Peter, Reading, PA
6/1/1966 – 3/27/1969: Secretary Tribunal, Diocese of Allentown
3/27/1969 – 7/9/1969: Spanish Apostolate
7/9/1969 – 7/9/1969: Diocesan Tribunal
7/9/1969 – 11/1/1969: Regional Director, Spanish Apostolate, Berks County, PA
11/1/1969 – 1/1/1970: Council of Priests -Diocesan Consultors
1/1/1970 – 10/12/1971: Executive Dire. And Moderator, Social Action Bureau
10/12/1971 – 6/14/1974: Council of Priests -Diocesan Consultors
6/14/1974 – 6/14/1974: Executive Secretary and Coordinator Council of Social Services
6/14/1974 – 6/14/1974: Director, Family Life Bureau
6/14/1974 – 6/14/1974: Director, Catholic Charities & Catholic Social Agency
6/14/1974 – 6/14/1974: St. Peter, Reading, PA
6/14/1974 – 8/19/1975: Pastoral Council, Diocese of Allentown
8/19/1975 – 9/26/1975: Our Lady Help of Christians, Allentown, PA
9/26/1975 – 11/1/1975: Director of Marriage Encounter, Allentown, PA
11/1/1975 – 8/1/1977: Council of Priests -Diocesan Consultors
8/1/1977 – 11/1/1978: St. Paul, Allentown, PA
11/1/1978 – 6/1/1981: Council of Priests -Diocesan Consultors
6/1/1981 – 11/1/1981: Diocesan Consultor
11/1/1981 – 1/26/1982: Council of Priests
1/26/1982 – 9/26/1983: St. Vincent de Paul Society
9/26/1983 – 9/26/1983: Holy Family Manor, Bethlehem, PA
9/26/1983 – 11/15/1983: Holy Family Villa, Bethlehem, PA
11/15/1983 – 11/15/1983: Diocesan director, Holy Family Health Care Agency, Schuylkill County, PA
11/15/1983 – 1/1/1984: Diocesan Director; Project H.E.A.D.
1/1/1984 – 12/31/1985: PCC Administrative Board
6/16/1987 – 6/16/1987: St. Francis of Assisi, Allentown, PA
6/16/1987 – 6/8/1995: Bethlehem Priest Director, Holy Family Manor, (President and CEO)
6/8/1995 – 10/29/1997: Board of Directors Catholic Social Agency
10/29/1997 – 12/3/2000: Board of Seton Manor, Inc.
12/3/2000 – 5/1/2002: Board of Covenant Home Care, Inc.
Summary: A parishioner claimed she was “fondled in the area of the vagina “when she was about 12 or 13” by Rigney. On April 4, 1988, Rigney wrote a 23 page document to Welsh after allegations were made that Rigney “stroked a female minor’s vagina.” The letter denied any inappropriate touching or actions and painted both the victim and her family as highly dysfunctional and not credible, trying to convince the bishop of the same. Rigney’s letter was in response to a letter sent to the Allentown Diocese from a relative of the victim.
On April 9, 2002, a woman telephoned the Chancery stating she had been touched inappropriately by a priest when she was about age nine or 10. The touching occurred over a one-year period from 1966 to 1967. Later that year, Rigney requested early retirement citing medical reasons.
Joseph A. Rock
2/1972 – 9/1972: Sacred Heart of Jesus, Allentown, PA
5/1972 – 5/1975: Catholic Scouting, Allentown Area
6/1972 – 2/1975: Catholic Youth Organization, Lehigh County, PA
9/1972 – 2/1975: St. Catherine of Siena, Allentown, PA
2/1975 – 9/1976: St. Ignatius Loyola, Reading, PA
3/1975 – 9/1976: Scouts, Hawk Mountain, Berks County, PA
6/1975 – 9/1976: Catholic Youth Organization, Berks County, PA
9/1976 – 8/1977: St. Simon and Jude, Bethlehem, PA
9/1976 – 4/1982: Scouts, Minsi Trails Council, Lehigh County, PA
9/1976 – 6/1982: Catholic Youth Organization, Bethlehem, PA
8/1977 – 3/1982: Our Lady Help of Christians, Allentown, PA
3/1982 – 2/1986: St. Francis de Sales, Mount Carbon, PA
6/1983 – 2/1986: Catholic Scouting, Diocese of Allentown
9/1983 – 9/1986: Social Action Bureau Advisory Board, West Schuylkill County
6/1985 – 2/1986: Youth Ministry
2/1986 – 9/1986: Sick Leave
9/1986 – 10/2001: Holy Family Manor
10/1999 – 10/2001: Retired
5/2005 – Dismissed from Priesthood
Summary: In 1986, two reports were made to the Diocese of Allentown indicating sexual contact with three boys by Father Joseph Rock. One incident occurred in 1983 when the victim was nine years old. The victim stated that Rock touched him by fondling and masturbation. In addition, two brothers came forward claiming that, in the early 1980’s while they were still minors, Rock sexually touched them through their clothes.
In February 1986, Rock was placed on “sick leave.” He was sent to a Chancery for evaluation and the staff later reported back to the diocese, “He…is no longer capable of functioning in a responsible work situation, and his life is unmanageable.”
Several other victim testimonies against Chancery were noted.
Gerald Royer
6/1947 – 1/1948: St. Bartholomew, Brockton
1/1948 – 6/1948: St. Simon and Jude, Bethlehem
6/1948 – 12/1948: St. Bartholomew, Brockton
12/1948 – 6/1950: St. Catherine of Siena, Reading
6/1950 – 5/1952: St. Joseph, Girardsville
5/1952 – 1/1953: Annunciation, Shenandoah
1/1953 – 3/1954: Chaplain, Convent of Divine Love
3/1954 – 11/1955: St. Mary of the Assumption, Philadelphia
11/1955 – 2/1956: Leave of Absence
2/1956 – 5/1956: St. Jane Frances de Chantal, Easton
5/1956 – 4/1960: St. Paul, Reading
4/1960 – 7/1961: Leave of Absence
7/1961 – 8/1964: Chaplain, St. Joseph’s Manor
8/1964 – 2/1965: Left active ministry (laicized)
Summary: Held in the secret archives of the Diocese of Allentown was a folder titled by a victim’s name. Inside the folder was information describing the sexual abuse of a minor that occurred in 1948. The abuser was Father Gerald Royer. At the time of the abuse in 1948, the Diocese of Allentown did not exist and the location was under the control of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia.
In January 2003, the victim, then in his sixties, made a report of sexual abuse to the Diocese against Royer. Because Royer was under the authority of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia at the time of the sexual abuse, the Diocese referred this victim to Monsignor William Lynn, Vicar for Clergy of the Archdiocese.
The Diocese of Allentown began paying for counseling then referred the costs to the Archdiocese of Philadelphia in June 2003.He was a fatherless, 12 -year -old boy. His mother was happy that a priest took interest in her son. Royer would kiss the victim and the kissing progressed to molestation. Royer would abuse the child behind the airport in Allentown, in his home, and in the rectory.The child told a friend who did not believe him. During one abuse, the friend hid in the closet and watched Royer molest the victim. The child who witnessed the abuse could not fathom what had just occurred.
The victim never told his wife why he could not hug or kiss his own children, who were boys. He was unable to be affectionate with his grandchildren. To this day, he cannot shake hands with men. He cannot be seen by male doctors or dentists.
Charles J. Ruffenach
6/11/1930 – 6/8/1931: Holy Ghost, Bethlehem, PA
608/1931 – 9/20/1934: St. Mary of the Assumption, Philadelphia, PA
9/20/1934 – 7/2/1979: St. John the Baptist, Stiles
7/02/1979 – 7/4/1980: St. John the Baptist, Stiles Holy Family Villa
7/04/1980 – Deceased
Summary: On August 29, 2001, an adult victim contacted the Diocese to report physical and sexual abuse at the hands of Father Charles Ruffenach beginning in approximately 1945, when the victim was in first grade, and continuing through the eighth grade.
The victim stated that Ruffenach beat, paddled, and sexually abused him when he attended St. John the Baptist school. The abuse took place on the premises of the parish, specifically in the boiler room. The victim also reported at the time of abuse Ruffenach referred to it as “washing his penis.” In the late 1980’s, the victim confronted Ruffenach regarding the abuse. Ruffenach denied the allegations. However, during the confrontation, Ruffenach claimed that during the time of incident the victim wanted him to “wash his penis.”
At the time of the report by the victim, the Diocese responded by stating that Ruffenach was deceased and therefore it could not pursue the victim’s claims any further but offered the victim counseling.
J. Pascal Sabas
10/1955 – 10/1957: Vocation Director, New York
10/1957 – 10/1958: House Discretus and Purser, New York
10/1958 – 10/1960: Administrator, St. Vincent de Paul, Pittsburgh, PA
10/1960 – 10/1962: Assistant, Sacred Heart, Yarmouth, Maine
10/1962 – 5/21/1963: Assistant, St. Joseph, Portland, Maine
5/21/1963 – 5/20/1964: Assistant, St. Francis of Assisi, Minersville, PA
5/20/1964 – 9/1/1965: Assistant, St. Francis of Assisi, Allentown, PA
9/1/1965 – 11/1/1966: Assistant, St. Patrick, Pottsville, PA
11/1/1966 – 4/4/1967: Regional Director, Bishop’s Relief Agency, West Schuylkill, PA
4/4/1967 – 1/18/1971: Administrator, St. Vincent de Paul, Girardville, PA
1/18/1971 – 8/1/1977: Pastor, St. Vincent de Paul, Girardville, PA
8/1/1977 – 10/1/1977: Administrator, St. Ignatius Loyola, Sinking Spring, PA
10/1/1977 – 3/4/1980: Pastor, St. Ignatius Loyola, Sinking Spring, PA
3/4/1980 – 6/1/1983: Pro -Synodal Examiner
6/1/1983 – 8/16/1983: Priest Representative Diocesan Board of Education, Berks County, PA
8/16/1983 – 10/1/1985: Pastor, St. George, Shenandoah, PA
10/1/1985 – 12/16/1986: Returning to Religious Life
12/16/1986 – 3/19/1987: Assistant, St. Anthony, Easton, PA
3/19/1987 – 6/14/1988: Chaplain, Catholic Daughters of the Americas
6/14/1988 – 6/1989: Assistant Pastor, St. John the Baptist, Shillington, PA
6/1989 – 11/1/1991: Sick Leave
11/1/1991 – 1996: Retired
Summary: At the age of 14, a boy was sexually abused by Father J. Pascal Sabas beginning in 1964. Sabas would come over to the house to play with toy cars, and then abuse the victim while they were alone in the basement. Sabas also abused the victim while in the corridor of his school and after the victim served Mass as an altar boy.
Sabas also threatened the victim, telling him, “Don’t tell your parents. They would be very hurt if they knew what you were doing.”
The abuse only ended when Sabas was transferred out of the victim’s parish.
William J. Shields
5/29/1958 – 5/27/1960: Assistant, St. Ambrose, Schuylkill Haven, PA
5/27/1960 – 2/23/1962: Assistant, St. John Baptist de la Salle, Shillington, PA
2/23/1962 – 9/4/1962: Assistant, St. Mary, Hamburg, PA
9/4/1962 – 10/30/1964: Assistant, Annunciation B.V.M., Shenandoah, PA
10/30/1964 – 12/9/1966: Regional Director, Bishop’s Relief, Upper Schuylkill County, PA
12/9/1966 – 11/29/1967: Bishop’s Relief Agency, East Schuylkill County, PA
11/29/1967 – 8/30/1968: Assistant, St. Paul, Allentown, PA
8/30/1968 – 3/27/1969: Assistant, St. Lawrence, Catasauqua, PA
3/27/1969 – 3/8/1972: Administrator, St. Ann, Lansford, PA
3/8/1972 – 1/11/1974: Assistant, St. Peter, Reading, PA
1/11/1974 – 6/15/1995: Pastor, St. Nicholas, Weatherly, PA
6/15/1995 – 8/28/2000: Pastor Emeritus, St. Nicholas, Weatherly, PA
Summary: At the time of the abuse, the victim revered priests and the Catholic Church and “did not know how to say no to a priest or nun.” Shields asked the victim to sit in the television room of the rectory so Shields could give him a massage. He began by massaging the victim’s shoulders and working his way down to the victim’s waistline. Shields unbuttoned the victim’s pants and began fondling the victim’s genitals. Shields then made the victim stand up as Shields knelt in front of the victim and began removing the victim’s pants and underwear. At this point, the victim stopped Shields. And as the victim was getting ready to leave, Shields told him, “Let this be our little secret.”
The victim went home and told his mother what had happened. The victim’s mother advised him not to tell anyone of the incident and to stay away from Shields. The victim told a deacon in the Diocese, and Shields was transferred.
Stephen F. Shigo
6/20/1978 – 6/15/1981: Holy Guardian Angels, Hyde Park, PA
6/15/1981 – 9/1/1981: St. Ambrose, Schuylkill Haven, PA
9/1/1981 – 7/11/1983: Area Chaplain Catholic Scouting, West Schuylkill County, PA
7/11/1983 – 8/31/1984: Regional Director, CYO West Schuylkill County, PA
8/31/1984 – 12/4/1985: Regional Director, Youth Ministry, South Schuylkill County, PA
12/4/1985 – 11/2/1991: Regional Director, Family Life Bureau, South Schuylkill County, PA
Summary: The victim told the Diocese he was sexually abused by Shigo when he was an altar boy during eighth and ninth grades and at St. Ambrose church. The Diocese offered six months of counseling. However, records indicate the victim was participating in counseling at least through June 2016, for which the Diocese paid. Shigo died in 1991.
David A. Soderlund
6/1965 – 12/1966: St. Peter, Coplay, PA
12/1966 – 4/1971: Sacred Heart, West Reading, PA
4/1971 – 6/1973: St. Catharine of Siena, Reading, PA
4/1971 – 6/1974: Holy Name High School, Reading, PA
6/1971 – 11/1971: St. Catharine of Siena, Reading, PA
10/1971 – 11/1978: Adult Religious Education, Berks County, PA
6/1973 – 1/1974: St. John the Baptist, Shillington, PA
1/1974 – 11/1978: St. Benedict, Reading, PA
6/1974 – 11/1978: Holy Name High School, Reading, PA
11/1978 – 7/1980: St. Joseph, Summit Hill, PA
7/1980 – 9/1980: Sick Leave (Villa St. John Vianney Hospital)
9/1980 – 6/1981: Our Lady of Hungary, Northampton, PA
6/1981 – St. Catharine of Siena, Reading, PA
10/1986 – 1/1989: Good Samaritan Hospital, Pottsville, PA
2/1989 – Administrative Leave (faculties withdrawn)
5/2005 – Dismissed from Priesthood
2009 – Arrested
Summary: As early as August 5, 1961, while in Seminary, Father David Soderlund expressed a desire to work with children. In 1980, three separate complaints were made against him. The complaints asserted that Soderlund had engaged in sexual acts with three different children. The children were aged 12 to 13 years old. The Diocesan record, a “summary of case” relating to Soderlund, generalized the sexual conduct without referencing specific acts or crimes.
On June 11, 1980, a meeting was held at the Chancery during which photo albums were examined depicting nude photographs of a young boy engaged in sex acts with Soderlund. Soderlund admitted to Chancery officials that he engaged in sexual activity with the three young boys. While documents created at the time of the admission minimized the conduct, the facts became available through a detailed account of the abuse obtained from a victim in 1997 by the Diocese. The victim reported that: he was not a willing participant, but Soderlund threatened to harm or kill him.
Soderlund also took pictures of the victim engaged in sexual acts and threatened to use them to embarrass him. Soderlund offered to leave the priesthood if the victim would go away with him. The victim then indicated that he knew of many other boys who were victimized by Soderlund.
In 2009, Soderlund, now living in Dubois, Wyoming, within the Diocese of Cheyenne was arrested, convicted, and sentenced to incarceration for two to five years for sexual exploitation of children and possession of child pornography on his computer. He is a registered sex offender in Wyoming.
Henry E. Strassner
6/14/1947 – 9/2/1947:Assistant Pastor, St. Charles Borromeo, Cornwell Heights, PA
9/2/1947 – 5/16/1961: Allentown Central Catholic High School, Professor (Res. Notre Dame, Bethlehem, 09/08/1954)
5/16/1961 – 6/19/1962: Regional Director, Holy Name Society, Lehigh County, PA
6/19/1962 – 5/21/1963: Assistant, Notre Dame, Bethlehem (Summer Assignment)
5/21/1963 – 3/20/1964: Principal, Notre Dame High School, Green Pond, PA
3/20/1964 – 12/16/1964: St. Michael, Easton, In Residence
12/16/1964 – 11/9/1966: St. Bernard, Easton, In Residence
11/9/1966 – 8/30/1968: Member, Council of Priests -Diocesan Consultors
8/30/1968 – 11/27/1968: Administrator, St. Paul, Allentown, PA
11/27/1968 – 10/6/1968: Member, Council of Priests -Diocesan Consultor
10/6/1968 – 11/1/1969: Director, Family Life Bureau, Lehigh County, PA
11/1/1969 – 11/1/1972: Member, Council of Priests -Diocesan Consultors
11/1/1972 – 1/17/1974: Council of Priests -Diocesan Consultors, Ex Officio Member
1/17/1974 – 12/1/1974: Pastor, St. Paul, Allentown
12/1/1974 – 12/9/1983: Regional Director, Family Life Bureau, Lehigh County, PA
12/9/1983 – 11/1/1984: Member, Diocesan Development and Endowment Committee
11/1/1984 – 6/22/1988: Dean, Lehigh County Diocese of Allentown
6/22/1988 – 8/1/1993: Member, Advisory Board, Allentown Central Catholic High School, PA
8/1/1993 – 2/18/1994: Sick Leave
2/18/1994 – 3/16/2000: Senior Priest/Assistant Pastor, St. Jerome, Tamaqua, PA
3/16/2000 – 6/17/2003: Council of Priests Rep. Parochial Vicars
6/17/2003 – 11/20/2009: Retired; Pastor Emeritus of St. Paul Church, Allentown, PA
Summary: The victim reported that Father Henry Strassner kissed him four times on the lips, “in the same way a woman would kiss,” within the first hour and a half of a counseling session. Strassner, after being confronted and initially denying even knowing the victim, admitted to the conduct but claimed he “did not intend anything sexual.” Strassner claimed the victim “was essentially parent less and I wanted to simply affirm his sense of self-worth.”
Strassner was sent to see a counselor who, after meeting with Strassner, advised the Diocese that there was “a lot more going on here than Father Strassner has admitted.”
Bruno M. Tucci
4/1971 – 4/1972: St. Margaret, Reading, PA
10/1971 – 4/1972: Confraternity of Christian Doctrine, Berks County, PA
4/1972 – 6/1972: Cardinal Brennan High School, Fountain Spring, PA
4/1972 – 6/1972: Annunciation, Shenandoah, PA
6/1972 – 9/1972: St. Canicus, Mahanoy City, PA
6/1972 – 6/1977: Marian High School, Tamaqua, PA
9/1972 – 6/1974: St. Canicus, Mahanoy City, PA
6/1974 – 2/1975: St. Peter and Paul, Lehighton, PA
2/1975 – 6/1977: Our Lady of Mount Carmel, Nesquehoning, PA
6/1975 – 8/1975: Marian High School, Tamaqua, PA
6/1977 – 6/1979: Holy Name High School, Reading, PA
6/1977 – 9/1977: St, Columbkill, Boyertown, PA
9/1977 – 6/1978: Most Blessed Sacrament, Bally, PA
6/1978 – 4/1981: St. Peter, Reading, PA
6/1979 – 4/1981: Central Catholic High School, Reading, PA
4/1981 – 6/1986: Immaculate Conception, Kelayres, PA
6/1986 – 3/2002: Our Lady of Mount Carmel and Immaculate Conception, Nesquehoning, PA
3/1/2002 – Retired
2/9/2007 – Dismissed from priesthood
Summary: The Diocese of Allentown became aware of Father Bruno Tucci’s abuse of children in 1991. A victim called the Chancery and stated he was sexually molested by Tucci when he was 14 years old. Tucci tickled him and put his hands down the back of the victim’s pants. On another occasion, Tucci unbuttoned his pants and the victim’s pants. Tucci pulled them both down and made skin to skin contact. Tucci normalized the conduct by tickling the victim in front of the victim’s parents.
When questioned, Tucci stated that the incidents occurred “exactly as the victim reported.” Tucci said it was “just touching” and clarified he had not engaged in “sodomy.”
Similar events took place in other parishes years later.
In March 2002, Tucci retired. His retirement came just weeks after the Boston Globe garnered national attention after publishing articles detailing child sexual abuse within the Archdiocese of Boston.
Gregory Uhrig
1974 – Secretary, Diocesan Tribunal; Assistant, St. Francis of Assisi, Allentown, PA
8/30/1974 – 6/17/1975: Professor, Allentown Central Catholic High School, PA; Resident, St. Elizabeth, Whitehall, PA
6/17/1975 – 9/29/1975: Resident and Assistant, Immaculate Conception, Allentown, PA
9/29/1975 – 6/15/1976: Member, Liturgical Commission
6/15/1976 – 10/4/1976: Secretary, Diocesan Tribunal
10/4/1976 – 6/20/1976: Defender of the Bond, Diocesan Tribunal
6/20/1976 – 6/20/1978: Professor, Reading Central High School, PA; Resident, Holy Rosary, Reading, PA
6/20/1978 – 6/16/1980: Assistant, St. Anthony, Easton, PA
6/16/1980 – 10/1/1981: Coordinator, CCD Adult Regular Education, Northampton, PA
10/1/1981 – 2/25/1982: Regional Director, Family Life Bureau, Northampton, PA
2/25/1982 – 6/20/1983: Assistant Pastor, St. Ursula, Fountain Hill, Bethlehem, PA
6/20/1983 – 12/8/1985: Assistant Pastor, Our Lady of Perpetual Help, Bernardsville, PA
12/8/1985 – 6/19/1986: Assistant, St. Francis Cathedral, Metuchen, New Jersey
6/19/1986 – 12/1/1986: Resident, Holy Trinity, Egypt; Chaplain, Muhlenberg/Cedar Crest Colleges
10/1/1986 – 6/14/1988: Resident, St. Thomas More, Allentown, PA
6/14/1988 – 6/15/1989: Assistant Pastor, St. Thomas More, Allentown, PA
6/15/1989 – 9/6/1989: Pastor, John the Baptist, Whitehall, PA
9/6/1989 – 7/15/1993: Regional Director, CCD Lehigh County, PA
7/15/1993 – 1/19/1995: Assigned to ministry in New Jersey
1/19/1995 – Excardinated from Diocese of Allentown; Diocese of Metuchen
10/2010 – Placed on leave due to allegations stemming from incidents in 1978-1980
Summary: The Diocese of Allentown became aware of Father A. Gregory Uhrig’s sexual abuse of children by 2010. On May 5, 2010, a 44-year-old female victim made a complaint to the Diocese of sexual abuse at the hands of Uhrig when she was 13 years old and attended the seventh grade at St. Anthony school in Easton.
In 1995, Uhrig left the Diocese and was incardinated to the Diocese of Metuchen in New Jersey. Following a report to that Diocese, he was placed on leave. The Diocese appears to have reported the complaint to local law enforcement upon receipt of the complaint. However, no prosecution was initiated because the statute of limitations had expired.
Andrew Aloysius Ulincy
6/1/1966 – 9/2/1967: Professor, Marian High School, Hometown, PA
6/1/1966 – 3/27/1969: Resident, St. Joseph, Jim Thorpe, PA
11/1/1966 – 3/27/1969: Regional Director of Vocations, Carbon County, PA
12/9/1966 – 11/1/1970: Secretary, Committee on Ecumenism
3/27/1969 – 10/30/1979: Pastor, St. Mary, Mahanoy City, PA
11/1/1970 – Member, Committee on Ecumenism
12/1/1974 – 10/30/1979: Regional Director, Family Life Bureau, E. Schuylkill, PA
10/30/1979 – 12/1/1981: Pastor, St. Simon and Jude, Bethlehem, PA
3/4/1980 – 12/1/1981: Parish Priest Consultor
12/1/1981 – 2/15/1982: Sick leave
2/15/1982 – 5/4/1982: Assistant Pastor, St. Michael, Lansford, PA
5/4/1982 – 1/3/1995: Pastor, St. Joseph, Frackville, PA
12/21/1992 – 12/21/1995: Advisory Board Member, Cardinal Brennan High School
1/3/1995 – 8/21/1996: Assistant Pastor, Holy Rosary, Reading, PA
8/21/1996 – 6/5/1997: Administrator Pro Tempore, Immaculate Conception, Birdsboro, PA
6/5/1997 – 9/11/1997: Administrator, St. Paul, Reading, PA
9/11/1997 – 9/21/2010: Pastor Pro Tempore, St. Paul, Reading, PA
8/28/2001 – 9/21/2010: Spiritual Director, Holy Name Society for Berks Deanery
12/1/2009 – 9/21/2010: Pastors of Berks Deanery, Council of Priests, Representative
3/1/2011 – Retired
Summary: The Diocese of Allentown became aware of Father Andrew Ulincy’s sexual abuse of children in 1981. On November 16, 1981, a 17 -year-old victim reported to the Bethlehem Police that Ulincy had sexually propositioned him. Ulincy was contacted by the police and admitted that the victim’s complaint was true. There is no evidence that the solicitation resulted in any criminal charges.
Ronald Yarrosh
11/1974 – 12/1975: Assistant Promotion Director P.I.M.E. (Pontifical Institute for Foreign Missions), Detroit, MI
2/1976 – 6/1976: Language Student, P.I.M.E., Rome, Italy
8/1976 – 11/1976: Missionary, P.I.M.E., Hong Kong
2/1977 – 11/1981: Mission Appeal, P.I.M.E., Detroit, MI
2/1982 – 6/1982: Assistant Pastor, St. Anthony, Easton, PA
6/1982 – 10/1985: Assistant Pastor, Holy Rosary, Reading, PA
6/1986 – 6/1988: Assistant Pastor, St. Patrick, Pottsville, PA
6/1988 – 11/1991: Assistant Pastor, St. Francis of Assisi, Allentown, PA
5/1990 – Incardination into the Diocese of Allentown
11/1991 – 6/1996: Assistant Pastor, St. Anne, Bethlehem, PA
6/1996 – 6/1998: Assistant Pastor, St. Margaret, Reading, PA
6/1996 – 6/1997: Campus Minister, Albright College, Reading, PA
6/1997 – 7/1997: Assistant Pastor Pro Tempore, St. Peter, Reading, PA
6/1998 – 6/1999: Assistant Pastor, St. Jane Frances de Chantel, Easton, PA
6/1999 – 6/2001: Pastor, Holy Family, Sacred Heart Churches, New Philadelphia, PA
6/1999 – 6/2001: Pastor, St. Anthony, Cumbola,
6/2001 – 6/2003: Assistant Pastor, St. Bernard, Easton, PA
6/2003 – 4/2004: Assistant Pastor, St. Ambrose, Schuylkill Haven, PA
Summary: On April 22, 2004, Pennsylvania State Police searched the rooms of Father Ronald Yarrosh and found a “tremendous amount” of child pornography. On April 29, 2004, Yarrosh was removed from priestly ministry and entered St. John Vianney Hospital for evaluation and treatment. 2004, the Pennsylvania State Police filed charges against Yarrosh, specifically, 110 counts of sexual abuse of children after discovering hundreds of child pornography photos, books, magazines, videos, and DVD’s in his possession. As law enforcement began its prosecution, Diocesan Support Services conducted an audit and determined that Yarrosh embezzled approximately $23,000.00 from the parish.
Charges were filed related to this theft. On April 27, 2005, Yarrosh entered a plea of guilty to charges of theft and possession of child pornography. Yarrosh was sentenced pursuant to a negotiated plea agreement to imprisonment for three to 23 months, $250.00 in fines, and restitution to the parish.
On July 21, 2005, Yarrosh left St. Francis Villa and moved into a motel. Yarrosh continued in residence at the motel until August 8, 2005, at which time he was incarcerated in Schuylkill County Prison in Pottsville. Upon his release on November 31, 2005, Yarrosh registered with the Pennsylvania State Police as a sexual offender. Upon his release from prison, Yarrosh was still a priest. On December 6, 2005, Yarrosh was released from prison as a convicted and registered sex offender. The Diocese granted him residence at St. Francis Villa in Orwigsburg. The Diocese’s own designation of Yarrosh noted he was a “moderate to high risk to again use pornography and/or consort with prostitutes.”
In November 2006, it was discovered that Father Yarrosh had taken trips to New York City with a seven-year-old child. Yarrosh was also found to be in possession of pornography in violation of his court supervision. The Schuylkill County Court of Common Pleas subsequently sentenced Yarrosh to four to ten years in state prison for violating the terms of his supervision.
Finally, in June 2007, the Diocese dismissed Yarrosh from the priesthood.
Joseph A. Zmijewski
8/18/1938 – 7/8/1942: Assistant, St. Ladislaus, Philadelphia, PA
7/8/1942 – 5/8/1961: Chaplain, Bernardine Sisters, Reading, PA
5/8/1961 – 10/27/1961: Defender of the Bond
10/27/1961 – 1/27/1964: Administrator Pro Tempore, St. Mary’s, Reading, PA
1/27/1964 – 8/4/1967: Member, Diocesan Liturgical Commission
8/4/1967 – Promoter of Justice, The Tribunal
Summary: On October 26, 2004, an adult woman reported to the Diocese of Allentown that she was a victim of child sexual abuse at the hands of a Diocesan priest. While in the ninth grade, the victim met Father Joseph A. Zmijewski. She was in a new school and was experiencing unhappiness. The victim began regular counseling sessions with Zmijewski.
Zmijewski proposed a course of alternative treatment. He directed the victim to come to his personal residence where he could help the victim through hypnosis. The victim complied and attended four hypnosis sessions with Zmijewski at his residence. After the first three attempts were unsuccessful by Zmijewski to hypnotize her, she agreed to a fourth session. In an effort to expedite her “treatment,” she faked hypnosis during her fourth session. While she pretended to be hypnotized, Zmijewski instructed her to take off one piece of clothing after another. The victim was scared and complied until she was nude. Zmijewski then left the room for a short period of time and upon his return, he instructed the victim to get dressed. The victim never returned for any further “treatment” and kept the incident to herself into adulthood.
David Connell, Timothy Johnson, and Jim Gross
Summary: David Connell and Timothy Johnson were Carmelite priests and Jim Gross was a lay person. in September 2007, a known victim reported he had been sexually abused by Gross, a basketball coach at St. Patrick’s in Pottsville. He reported that the abuse began in the 1970’s while he was in sixth grade. In the summer of 1984, Gross resigned from teaching at St. Francis School in Minersville, Schuylkill County.
In the narrative of his last evaluation from June 1984, the victim also reported that he was sexually abused by a Carmelite priest named Father David Connell and physically abused by a Carmelite brother named Timothy Johnson while attending Nativity High School. The abuse was reported to the Provincial of the Carmelites, Father Michael Kissane, in October 2007. The victim stated that his family’s house had burned down and the Carmelites took him and his brother in and had them live in a priory. During the time he was living in the priory, the victim was sexually abused by Connell. The victim remembered drinking juice that Connell gave him and the next memory the victim had was waking up in his own bed naked, with Connell in the room. The victim had no memory of the prior evening but, on waking, he was bleeding from his rectum.
The victim told Johnson he was going to also report the abuse to the police. Johnson told the victim not to report the abuse to the police but the victim insisted on reporting. At this point Johnson began to severely beat the victim with a big leather belt and told the victim that, if he reported the abuse to the police, he would beat him even worse.
Michael S. Lawrence
06/1973 – 06/1974: St. Catharine of Siena, Reading
06/1974 – 11/1974: Notre Dame High School, Easton; Sacred Heart, Miller Heights
11/1974 – 12/1974: Coordinator of Adult Religious Education, North Hampton
12/1974 – 06/1975: St. Jane Frances de Chantal, Easton
06/1975 – 12/1975: St. Jane Frances de Chantal, Easton
12/1975 – 06/1977: St. Anne, Bethlehem
06/1977 – 06/1978: Central Catholic High School, Allentown; St. Lawrence, Catasauqua
06/1978 – 08/1978: Diocesan Tribunal
08/1978 – 03/1980: Holy Trinity, Whitehall
03/1980 – 11/1982: St. Catharine of Siena, Reading
11/1982 – 03/1984: St. Anthony, Easton
03/1984 – 06/1984: Notre Dame High School, Easton; St. Anthony, Easton
06/1984 – 08/1984: St. Joseph, Easton; Notre Dame High School, Easton
08/1984 – 01/1987: Immaculate Conception, Jim Thorpe
01/1987 – 06/1987: Sick Leave
06/1987 – 03/1994: St. Paul, Allentown; Diocesan Tribunal; Ministry to the Aging
03/1994 – 06/1998: Diocesan Tribunal
06/1998 – 01/2000: Catholic University of America; Divine Word College
01/2000 – 03/2002: Courage
03/2002 – 04/2015: Retired
Summary: Suspicions of Lawrence’s pedophilic behavior were brought to the attention of the Church as early as 1970 while Lawrence was attending St. Charles Borromeo Seminary. A student evaluation found within the records of the Diocese and obtained by the grand jury indicate that Lawrence was “a mysterious type who craves the attention of younger students” and that Lawrence showed “a little too much interest in younger students.” Regardless of these observations, in 1981, Bishop Joseph McShea wished Lawrence well.
The father of the victim reported details of the incident. The victim told his father that he ha been in Lawrence’s room for a tutoring session. At the end of the session, the talk between Lawrence and the victim turned to sex. Lawrence then began to touch his genitals, had the victim take down his pants, and began to fondle the victim’s genitals. The victim’s father reported that his son had told him there had been “a lot of fondling, so much that he felt pain.” Additionally, Lawrence made the victim urinate.
William E. Jones
5/27/1960 – 3/12/1963: Annunciation B.V.M., Shenandoah, PA
3/12/1963 – 3/26/1968: St. Ambrose, Schuylkill Haven, PA
3/26/1968 – 12/119/69: St. Francis of Assisi, Allentown, PA
12/1/1969 – 8/24/1970: St. Jane Frances, Easton, PA
8/24/1970 – 4/4/1972: Notre Dame High School, Easton, PA
4/4/1972 – 6/20/1972: St. Jane Frances, Easton, PA; Notre Dame High School, Easton, PA
6/20/1972 – 6/11/1973: St. Jane Frances, Easton, PA
6/11/1973 – 6/14/1974: St. Jane Frances de Chantal, Easton, PA
6/14/1974 – 6/17/1975: St. Mary, St. Clair, PA
6/17/1975 – 7/1/1978: Nativity B.V.M. High School, Pottsville, PA
7/1/1978 – 11/7/1978: St. Joseph, Summit Hill, PA
11/7/1978 – 3/10/1981: St. Vincent de Paul, Minersville, PA
3/1019/81 – 11/7/1983: Representative, Diocesan Board of Education, West Schuylkill County, PA
11/7/1983 – 5/24/1984: St. Patrick’s, Pottsville, PA
5/24/1984 – 11/1/1984: South Schuylkill Deanery, Council of Priests, PA
11/1/1984 – 3/13/1985: South Schuylkill Deanery, PA
3/13/1985 – 8/20/1991: Budget Board Nativity B.V.M. High School
8/20/1991 – 11/1/1993: Honorary Prelate of His Holiness, John Paul II
11/1/1993 – 11/26/1996: South Schuylkill Deanery
11/26/1996 – 5/3/1996: Dean of South Schuylkill Deanery (post was held until 11/26/99 in conjunction with the following duties/dates)
5/03/1996 – 10/29/1997: Diocesan Negotiating Team
10/29/1997 – 4/04/1998: Board of Seton Manor, Inc.
4/4/1998 – 3/25/1999: Nativity B.V.M. High School Budget/Audit Board. (held until 09/2001)
3/25/1999 – 10/1/1999: South Schuylkill Deanery, Diocesan Negotiating Team
10/1/1999 – 2/1/2000: President of the Catholic Housing Corporation, Queen of Peace Apartments, Pottsville, PA
2/1/2000 – 9/20/2000: Vicar Forane of South Schuylkill Deanery (held until 1/31/03)
9/20/2000 – 4/11/2002: Pastor designated to consult on removal/transfer
4/11/2002 – Resigned as pastor of St. Patrick’s, Pottsville, PA
Diocese of Erie
Michael J. Amy
6/23/1978 – 7/05/1979: Asst. Pastor, Our Lady of Peace, Erie, PA
7/05/1979 – 8/28/1981: Faculty, Cathedral Preparatory. Residence at
Blessed Sacrament, Erie, PA
8/28/1981 – 6/14/1985: Faculty, Cathedral Preparatory, Residence at
Holy Trinity Rectory, Erie, PA
4/23/1983: Chaplin, Catholic Scouting Committee
6/14/1985 -1/20/1986: Faculty, Elk Co. Christian, Residing at Holy Rosary
Johnsonburg PA. Weekend Asst. St. Callistus, Kane, PA
1/20/1986: Weekend Asst. Holy Rosary, Johnsonburg, PA
6/14/1985 – 6/17/1988: Faculty, Elk Co. Catholic. Residing at
Holy Rosary, St. Mary’s, PA
6/17/1988-1/31/1990: Faculty, Bradford Central Christian HS. Residing at St. Bernard, Bradford, PA
4/19/1989 -12/15/1989: Administration, St. Callistus, Kane, PA
Residing at St. Callistus Rectory, Kane, PA
12/15/1989-12/22/1991: Pastor, St. Callistus. Residing at
St. Callistus Rectory, Kane, PA
12/22/1991-2/05/1992: Sick leave
1/05/1992 – 3/01/1993: Sick leave
11/1993: Living in private residence
Summary: In a 1993 letter, Amy wrote “I took the opportunity to touch the genitals of several boys at night. In 1974, one of them ran away because of my molesting him.” Amy said he was originally brought into custody by state police, but was not arrested or charged. He later admitted that he was involved with male prostitutes in the Erie area, as well as Pittsburgh and Baltimore. In 1993, the diocese acted to remove Amy.
After the laicization process, an additional allegation was made against him by a victim who was a student at Erie Cathedral Prep in the early 1980s. In an email in 2002, the victim said Amy got him alone in a confessional booth and questioned him about touching himself. Amy went on to fondle the victim on more than one occasion.
Michael G. Barletta
6/04/1966 – 5/30/1975: Secondary Education Kennedy Catholic
High School, Hermitage, PA
6/04/1966 – 6/03/1970: Weekend Asst. Sacred Heart, Sharon, PA
6/03/1970 – 6/30/1975: Weekend Asst. St. Joseph, Sharon, PA
1975 Teen Action Club at Cathedral Preparatory, Erie, PA
5/30/1975 – 9/07/1994: Secondary Education Erie Cathedral Preparatory HS
5/30/1975 – 9/07/1994: Weekend Assistant, St Luke’s, Erie, PA
9/07/1994 – 8/01/1995: Sabbatical, Other
Sabbatical at Southdown Treatment Center Toronto, Canada for
Psychological Treatment
8/01/1995 – 2/28/2002: Dioceses Office, Catholic Charities, Erie, PA
8/01/1995 – 2/28/2002: Dioceses Office, Office of Matrimonial Concerns, Erie, PA
8/01/1995 – 2/28/2002: Resident St. Patrick’s Resident, Erie, PA
2/28/2002 Retired
Summary: The grand jury received several documents describing Barletta’s behavior and heard testimony from a retired priest who saw Barletta with his genitalia exposed in the presence of a child under 18 between 1969 and 1970. Father John Fischer testified that he walked in on Barletta and a young high school student in private chambers, and that the student was naked from the waist down, trying to pull up his underwear and pants as Barletta watched. Fischer recalled that Monsignor Hastings dismissed the report, and that fellow priests laughed it off.
Later on, Bishop Trautman recorded details of a conversation that he had with Sister Donna Markham about Barletta. Trautman wrote that Barletta abused 5 children. Barletta was confronted with allegations of oral sex, naked messages, digital anal penetration and masturbation against a victim in 1994. When confronted, Barletta admitted his guilt to Trautman. The diocese paid for the victim’s counseling, but once the victim shared the story of abuse with a newspaper, Trautman advised that the victim should seek payment directly from Barletta.
From 1975 though 1994 when he was dismissed from Erie Cathedral Prep, Barletta admitted abusing 25 children and young men. After 1994, there are documents that proved Barletta was still allowed to minister in the Diocese of Erie.
Donald C. Bolton
1952 -1954: Mt. St. Alphonsus, Esopus, NY
1954 -1959: Bela Vista, Mato Grosso, Brazil
1959 – 1962: Campo Grande, Mato Grosso, Brazil
1962 – 1967: Bela Vista, Mato Grosso, Brazil
1967 – 1969: Monte Alegre, Parana, Brazil
1969 – 1970: Rocio, Parana, Brazil
1970 – 1974: Notre Dame Retreat House, Canadaigua, NY
1974 – 1984: St. Gregory Thaumaturgus, North East, PA
1984 – 1987: Our Lady of Perpetual Help Basilica, Brooklyn, NY
1987 – 1990: Holy Family Retreat House, Hampton, VA
1990 – 2003: St. Alphonsus Villa, Redemptorist Fathers and Brothers, New
Smyrna Beach, FL
2003 – 2006: St. John Neumann Residence, Sarasota Springs, FL
10/27/2006: Death
Summary: In 1986, parents of a 7-year-old girl came to Erie County District Attorney’s office with a complaint that Bolton molested their daughter. As a result, Bolton was charged with indecent assault and corruption of minors. He pled guilty in 1987 and was sentenced to three years probation.
One of Bolton’s victim would file a lawsuit and received a settlement of $100,000. Her abuse began when she was 7 and continued until she was 11. Bolton came to her house to console the family over the death of a grandparent. The victim said held her on his lap and rubbed her back, legs, bottom and rear. Other instances of assault occurred when the victim was in confession, at ski resort and at a cottage in New York. At different times, Bolton fondled her, rubbed his penis against her and put his fingers in her vagina.
In another file, a mother of five children alleged that Bolton may have sexually assaulted four of them. No details were provided to the grand jury as the diocese’s representatives were corresponding with the family to offer them assistance with counseling.
Another documented victim was a fourth-grade boy who reported he was sexually assaulted between 1976 and 1977. The diocese made arrangements to counsel the victim and arranged for various agencies to assist him and his family financially.
Robert F. Bower
5/23/1959 – 8/29/1964: Gannon University, Erie, PA
8/29/1964 – 6/03/1970: Parochial Vicar, Our Lady of the Lake, Edinboro, PA
6/03/1970 – 8/20/1993: Faculty, Newman Center, Edinboro University
8/29/1992 – 3/11/1999: Pastor, St Anthony, Cambridge Springs, PA
8/29/1992 – N/A: Resident, other, Private Residence, Edinboro, PA
8/31/1993 – 8/29/1998: Weekend Asst., Our Lady of the Lake. Edinboro, PA
3/11/1999 – 3/01/2001: Leave of Absence.
3/01/2001 – N/A: Special ministry, Weekend Asst. Johnsonburg, nursing home,
Meadville, PA
Summary: In 1981, Bower was found collecting child pornography. Seventh graders found the images while they served as janitors at Edinboro University. One of these kids, now an adult, testified the images to the grand jury. He testified that photos in Bower’s office depicted children having sex with adults.
The witness’s mother began working for the diocese in 1977. In 1981, she was fired two days and she and thee coworkers reported that Bower’s had a problem with pornography.
Bowers retired from active ministry in the early 2000’s but still lives on the Edinboro campus.
Dennis Chludzinski
6/05/1976 – 6/02/1977: Sacred Heart, Sharon, PA
6/03/1977 – 1/23/1978: Holy Rosary, Erie, PA
1/24/1978 – 6/30/1979: Leave of Absence
7/01/1979 – 8/24/1980: Unassigned / Under Father Kelly’s Supervision
8/25/1980 – 6/00/1984: Faculty at Villa Maria High School Erie, PA
St. Benedict’s Academy Erie, PA
Mercyhurst Preparatory Erie, PA
6/00/1984 – 10/08/1984: Attending Gannon University, Our Lady of Mercy
10/09/1985 – 8/31/1986: No Information provided by the Diocese of Erie
9/01/1986 – 8/02/1987: Chaplain, Sisters Community at Mercyhurst College, Hamot
Medical Center
Summary: In testimony to the diocese, Chludzinski admitted that in 1984 he has inappropriate sexual conduct with an 18-year-old boy. In a letter dated 1991 detailing his progress in therapy, Chludzinski admitted that he and a friend engaged in sexual contact with an 18-year-old male. This included masturbation and oral sex and occurred approximately four times. Chludzinski also noted that after being granted a leave, he became sexually involved with a 14-year-old boy for about nine months.
In 2004, it was reported that a father discovered that Chludzinski had molested his young son years ago during a camping trip. The victim stated he met Chludzinski as an altar boy and that the abuse happened approximately six times over about six months. When informed of the allegation, Chludzinski replied, “sorry.”
Donald Cooper
6/1963-5/1964: Bradford Central High Christian High School, Bradford, PA
5/1964-6/1971: St. Titus, Titusville, PA
6/1971-6/1975: St. George, Erie, PA
6/1975-11/1984: St. Charles, New Bethlehem, PA
11/1984-6/1987: Mount Calvary, Erie, PA
6/1987-3/1988: Assumption, Oil City, PA
3/1988-6/1989: St. Catherine, DuBois, PA
3/1988-4/1989: St. Anthony, Walston, PA
6/1989-7/2002: St. Joseph, Force, PA
7/2002-6/2005: Christ the King, Houtzdale, PA
10/2002-6/2005: Holy Trinity, Ramey, PA
6/2005: Retired
Summary: In 2005, a man sent an email to the diocese reporting he had been subject to inappropriate sexual contact by Copper between 1981 and 1982. The victim state Cooper abused him multiple times and left him with years of emotional trauma. Cooper would convince the young victim to take a shower with him and would massage the victim and fondle him genitals, as well as masturbate in front of him.
When confronted about the abuse in 2005, Cooper admitted his did shower with and massage the victim. He did not admit to the masturbation. Copper agreed to retire, and the church and the victim came to an agreement where the Diocese would pay for the victim’s past and future therapy and medication and also pay off $19,530 of the victim’s personal debt.
Michael R. Freeman
6/10/1972: St. Margaret, Buffalo, NY
2/15/1975: St. Lawrence, Buffalo Part-time teacher, Bishop Turner High School
7/31/1976: Sacred Heart, Niagara Falls, NY
7/01/1980: Chaplain, United States Army
11/09/1981: Ecclesiastical Endorsement revoked
9/11/1982: St. Christopher, Tonawanda, PA
9/01/1984: St. Mary, Lancaster, PA
3/21/1989: Faculties Revoked
Summary: The grand jury learned that Freeman had some contact with the Diocese of Erie but he was not incardinated into the Diocese as a priest. He was a priest in Buffalo, and in five of his six subsequent assignments he admitted to inappropriate sexual behavior with young men. The abuse occurred while he was a priest in Buffalo but also ministered in Pennsylvania. Freeman admitted sexual misconduct at both St. Margaret and St. Lawrence Parishes in New York, and the Diocese of Buffalo first became aware of Freeman’s criminal activity in November 1981.
The grand jury found no evidence that the Dioceses of Buffalo or Erie ever notified law enforcement officials, despite the fact that Freeman admitted to sexually violating children in at least five of his six ministry assignments.
Gregory P. Furjanic
1985: Staff, Kennedy Catholic High School
1985 – Unknown: Unknown duties, St. Anthony of Padua Sharon, PA
1987 – Unknown: Residing in a Convent at 1039 East 27th Street., Erie PA
7/08/1996: Faculties removed
2003 – Unknown: Croatian Franciscan Friars, Chicago, IL.
2005 – Unknown: Lutheran Social Services, St. Petersburg, FL
Summary: In 2005, there was an accusation made against Furjanic related to an incident in the early 1970s. Another incident occurred in the mid-1980s. Records show that in the 1990s another accusation came against Furjanic. The diocese sent him for counseling and then advanced counseling. In 1996, the Congregation for Institutions of Consecrated Life and of Societies of Apostolic Life removed Furjanic’s priestly authority.
The grand jury later learned one of the victim’s later died by suicide.
Chester Ggawronski
More information not available.
Herbert G. Gloeker
6/1949-9/1967: Sacred Heart, Erie, PA
9/1967-10/1974: St. Bibiana, Galeton, PA
10/1974-1/1985: Mount Calvary, Erie, PA
1/1985: Died, St. Mary’s Home
Summary: Gloekler was accused of sexually abusing young females during the 1950s at Sacred Heart. Most of the allegations involved girls who helped sort paperwork in the rectory. One victim described her abuse in an article for the Erie Times-News because she wanted to bring to light the abuse in the Catholic Church. Other victims wrote letters to Bishop Trautman supporting the claims in the newspaper. One victim said Gloekler would fondle her breasts. Another reported that he pulled her into an empty room and kissed her, and instructed her to keep the interaction private. Two other woman contacted Trautman and said they weren’t victims but had witnessed sexual abuse by Gloekler.
Robert E. Hannon
6/03/1954 – 2/03/1955: Assistant Pastor, Holy Rosary, Erie, PA,
2/03/1955 – 3/27/1957: Assistant Pastor, Sacred Heart, Sharon, PA
3/27/1957 – 2/03/1958: Assistant Pastor, St. Boniface, Kersey, PA
Resident Pastor (Hacherl) asked to have Hannon Removed
2/03/1958- 5/31/1958: Assistant Pastor, St Luke’s, Erie, PA
Resident Pastor (Goodill) asked to have Hannon Removed
5/31/1958 – 6/12/1965: Administrator, Sacred Heart, Genesee, PA
9/01/1959 – N/A: Appointed Assistant Director of Lay Retreats for the Diocese
6/12/1965 – 6/4/1966: Holy Cross, Brandy Camp, PA
6/04/1966 – N/A: Administrator, St. Mathew, Erie, PA
6/06/1966 – 6/16/1967: Administrator, St. Cyprian, Waterford, PA
6/16/1967 – 6/01/1979: Pastor, St. Mathew in the Wood, Erie, PA
4/13/1978: Requests transfer to Diocese of Hawaii
6/01/1979: Released to Diocese of Hawaii
9/19/1979 – 7/18/1980: Asst. Pastor, St. John the Apostle, HI
7/18/1980 – 6/1/1981: Associate Pastor, St. Cattistus, Kane, PA
6/01/1981: Associate Pastor, St. Elizabeth, Aiea, HI
4/26/1984: Holy Trinity Church, Honolulu, HI
7/17/1984: Incardinated into Diocese of Hawaii
10/20/2003 – 1/16/2006: Residence at Cathedral of Our Lady of Peace, Diocese of
Hawaii, Honolulu, HI
1/16/2006: Death Announcement
Summary: In 2003, in response to the John Jay College study on clergy sexual abuse, the Diocese of Erie acknowledged the existence of eight known victims of Hannon’ s sexual assaults. The grand jury has found documents that the Diocese of Hawaii and possibly the Diocese of Erie knew Father Hannon had admittedly abused at least twenty youths between ages 12 and 19.
Of the eight victims acknowledged by the Diocese of Erie, one is categorized as “claim denied, not verified” based upon a denial by Hannon. This victim was abused in Hawaii and occurred when Hannon was visiting the victim’s parents. While tucking her into bed, he allegedly fondled her under her underpants.
When the victim was interviewed in 2004, the Diocese of Hawaii found her “extremely credible.” But the Diocese of Erie sided with Hannan, as he had previously admitted to abusing only boys. Hannon denied abusing females stating, “they do not have a penis.”
There are eight known victims within the Diocese of Erie. It is unknown if the Diocese ever informed law enforcement officials about Hannon’s conduct.
James P. Hopkins
Unknown Dates: Pastor St. Titus Church in Titusville, PA
1920s: Pastor at unknown church in East Brady, PA
Summary: In 1993, a victim wrote a letter to Bishop Trautman at the Diocese of Erie where she stated in in 1945, when she was 13, she experienced abuse at the hands of Hopkins in the rectory of St. Titus. She stated that Hopkins would, “grab our face in his hands, force us to look up, and then plant a sloppy kiss on our mouths … and fondle us wherever he pleased.”
In 1994, the victim wrote another letter to Trautman. The bishop wrote back that “Since Monsignor Hopkins died in July of 1957, there is no possible way to investigate your accusation.”
Barry M. Hudock
8/01/1997 – N/A Catholic University, Faculty, Washington, DC
Summary: Hudock was 27 in 1996 when he engaged in inappropriate sexual conduct with a girl in her junior year of high school. Bishop Trautman detailed that the victim was a junior at Mercyhurst Preparatory when she was targeted by Hudock. This sexual abuse occurred in several different locations within the victim’s parish community. Trautman documented that Hudock and the victim had engaged in kissing prior to a trip to Wasington, D.C. Records revealed that Hudock groped and kissed the victim on numerous occasions, and it was reported he showed he pornography.
In 2008, the victim was having a difficult time dealing with the psychological issues from being victimized by Hudock. The Diocese agreed to pay for her medical bills and provided her with airfare to be seen at St. Luke’s Institute in Suitland, Maryland.
Hudock’ s current employment status is not known, but he operates his own religious website titled, “Faith Meets World” and has written religious books for Liturgical Press under his given name, as well as the pen name “Barry Michaels.”
Joseph W. Jerge
5/18/1951 -6/30/1952: Parochial Vicar, St. Boniface, Erie, PA
6/30/1952- 5/23/1959: Parochial Vicar, St. John the Baptist, Erie, PA
5/23/1959 – 8/29/1964: Parochial Vicars, St. Joseph, Oil City, PA
8/29/1964 – 6/03/1970: Pastor, St. Hippolyte, Guys Mills, PA
6/30/1970 – 12/04/1989: Pastor, St. Callistus, Kane, PA
4/19/1989 – 11/22/1989: Sick Leave
12/04/1989 – 6/14/1991: Parochial Vicar, St. John the Evangelist, Girard, PA
6/14/1991 – 9/01/1992: Parochial Vicar, St. Francis Xavier, McKean, PA
9/01/1992 – 2006: St. Patrick’s Retirement Resident, Erie, PA
Summary: The Diocese of Erie was first made aware of sexual abuse allegations against Joseph W. Jerge in early 1989. That year, he was sent for psychological therapy. In the fall of 1989, he was released and signed an aftercare contract that restricted his contact with young boys. He was placed back into ministry at St. John the Evangelist.
In 1991, Jerge had a meeting with several members of the clergy where concern was voiced about him violating his post-care contract. Bishop Trautman re -assigned Jerge to St. Francis Xavier parish.
One victim is well-documented by the ministry. He was a high school sophomore when Jerge took him on trips along and fondled him on multiple occasions. Later in the victim’s life, he was blackballed from employment and blocked from attempts to be admitted to seminary. The grand jury found documentation that Bishop Trautman personally instructed school administrators not to hire the victim, noting that he might be homosexual and might have attempted suicide. It is also noted that the Diocese paid at least $1,200 of the victim’s counseling fees.
Another victim stated that he was sexually abused by Jerge between approximately 1981 and 1985. He stated that all of the assaults took place in Jerge’s car. The victim made his history of abuse known to Trautman in 2003 and obtained an attorney. A letter stated Trautman advised Jerge to consider both legal and canonical counsel. According to the letter, Trautman called the District Attorney of Erie County to tell him of the situation and assure him of their compliance with the applicable standards and guidelines.
Stephen E. Jeselnick
5/01/1976: Associate, Our Lady of the Americas, Conneaut, PA
6/03/1977: Granted full faculties of the Diocese of Erie
9/06/1977: Faculty, Venango Christian HIGH SCHOOL w/residence at Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Oil City, PA
2/09/1987: Requests new assignment/residence. Wanted campus ministry
6/23/1978: Associate, St. Brigid and Campus Minister, Allegheny College w/Father William Karg
1/12/1980: Requests to be assigned to Notre Dame, IN (Holy Cross)
6/19/1980: Associate, St. Michael, Greenville, PA
7/31/1980: Appointed Defender of the Bond/Advocate for the Tribunal
3/31/1981: Bishop Watson agrees/recommends to release to
Notre Dame, IN
6/02/1981: Accepted into Graduate Candidate Program at Notre Dame
11/06/1982: Withdraws voluntarily from Holy Cross, IN (Novitiate)
12/03/1982: Permitted to minister in Denver, CO, for a six-month assignment by Bishop Murphy
12/10/1982
12/18/1982: Accepted by Archbishop Casey, Denver, CO
Spring 1983: Assigned to St. Mary’s, Littleton, CO
3/18/1983: Re -assigned to Shrine of St. Anne, Arvada, CO
4/08/1983: Requests to enter/serve as Military Chaplain
5/13/1983: Bishop Murphy approves appointment to Military
9/12/1985: Requests incardination into Diocese of Colorado Springs, CO
10/10/1985: Incardination denied; Requests Leave of Absence
11/5/1985: Colorado Springs withdraws their faculties
4/1/1986: Requests permission to enter Air Force to be Chaplain and Additional Leave of Absence
8/11/1986: Requests to enter Archdiocese of Military
10/03/1986: Residence at Ecclesia Center, Erie, PA
4/21/1987: Parochial Vicar, St. Catherine, DuBois, PA; Chaplain, DuBois
Medical Center; and Father Brugger’s weekend assistant at Sigel
and Corsica, PA
11/18/1996: Military Archdiocese to facilitate the change from active to reserve; the following month the Military endorses for inactive reserve duty
7/14/1997: Veterans Administration Hospital, Baltimore, MD
5/01/2014: Faculties revoked
Summary: Jeselnick’s file listed only two known victims who were both over the age of legal adulthood. Three other victims not included in the diocese files testified in person about the abuse. Their accounts include genital fondling, oral and anal sex, occurring in the late 1970s when Jeselnick was stationed in Meadville. All three men and several of their sisters testified that Jeselnick and a previously unidentified deacon would come to their house and get intoxicated. Once the adults were drunk, Jeselnick would find the boys and pray on them.
In 2014, Jeselnick sent a letter seeking suitability for ministry. After reviewing his file, Bishop Lawrence Persico denied the request.
Thomas C. Kelley
7/25/1968 – 7/16/1972: Parochial Vicar, St. Peter Cathedral, Erie, PA
7/16/1972 – 3/17/1978: Special Ministry, St. Mark’s Seminary, Erie, PA
7/16/1972 – 5/05/1979: Weekend Asst., Our Lady of Mercy, Harborcreek, PA
3/17/1979 – 5/05/1979: Special Ministry, St. Mark’s Seminary, Erie, PA
5/05/1979 – 9/01/1985: Special Ministry, St. Mark’s Seminary, Erie, PA
9/01/1985 – 6/30/1989: Dean, North American College, Rome, Italy
8/28/1989 – 3/27/1990: Administrator, St. Michael, Greenville, PA
3/27/1990 – 6/15/1994: Pastor, St. Michael, Greenville, PA
3/01/1992 – 6/15/1994: Diocesan Review Board
6/15/1994 – 12/31/1995: Leave of Absence, Odessa, TX/Erie, PA
9/18/1995 – 9/22/1995: Psychological Assessment, Southdown Treatment Center, Canada
4/1996 – 9/1996: Residential Treatment, Southdown Center, Aurora, Ontario, Canada
9/06/1994 – 12/31/1995: Pastor, St. Agnes, Ft. Stockton, TX
3/31/1996 – 11/25/1996: Chaplain, Holy Faith Monastery
2/21/2005: Death
Summary: Kelley served in two different dioceses in two states as well as in Europe over the course of his 30 year career. He was accused of inappropriate sexual conduct with at least five victims. His victims of choice were 18 to 25 year old men in high school or in seminary. Kelley engaged in mutual masturbation, oral and anal sex with his victims.
Gary L. Ketcham
9/10/1977 – 1/23/1984: St. Bonaventure University, Faculty Franciscan Friars, NY
5/1983-1/23/1984: St. Patrick’s, Buffalo, NY
1/23/1984 – 9/11/1985: Parochial Vicar, St. John the Baptist, Erie, PA
9/11/1985 – 8/01/1989: Parochial Vicar, St. George, Erie, PA
3/05/1989 – 6/14/1989: Health Leave, Guest House, Rochester, MN
6/14/1989 – 6/08/1990: Health Leave, St. Luke’s Institute, Suitland, MD
6/08/1990 – 7/16/1990: Health Leave, St. Patrick’s/St. Hedwig Cluster, Erie, PA
11/13/1998 – 2004: Suspended/Other
2004- Present: Privately employed; not functioning as a Priest
Summary: Sometime prior to March 1989, allegations of sexual misconduct came to light. He was accused of molesting two boys while in a drunken state while visiting friends in Mobile, Alabama. Ketcham was officially charged with two counts of sexual abuse of minors. He was sent to therapy after the incident and housed in a diocese-owned treatment facility.
Ketcham pled guilty to both counts and was ordered to pay a $15,000 fine. In 2002, Bishop Trautman initiated the laicization process to formerly remove Ketcham from the church. Ketcham cooperated with this process.
Thaddeus Kondzielski
Where he served:
6/16/1967-8/31/1986: Secondary Education, Cathedral Preparatory., Erie Facility
6/16/1967-6/03/1970: Weekend Asst., St. Stanislaus, Erie, PA
6/03/1970-8/31/1986: Weekend Asst., St. Hedwig, Erie, PA
8/31/1986-10/01/1988: Health Leave, Other
10/01/1988-6/30/1994: Administrator, St. Philip (Crossingville) Edinboro, PA
6/30/1994-5/04/2000: Pastor, St. Philip (Crossingville) Edinboro, PA
5/04/2000-6/29/2006: Pastor, St. Philip (Crossingville) Edinboro, PA (Reappointed 2nd 6 yr. term)
6/30/2006-8/31/2012: Pastor, St. Philip (Crossingville) Edinboro, PA (Reassigned 3rd 6 yr. term)
9/01/2012-4/28/2013: Pastor, St. Philip Crossingville) Edinboro, PA (Reappointed 4th 6 Yr. term)
4/29/2013: Retired
Summary: Father Thaddeus Kondzielski was assigned as a teacher at Erie Cathedral Preparatory for January 2013, a victim contacted the Diocese to advise that 30 years earlier, when he was a sophomore at Cathedral Preparatory, Kondzielski would ask him to assist with grading papers in the rectory.
On one occasion, Kondzielski asked him to stay and lift weights. When he said he did not have the proper clothes, Kondzielski suggested that they lift weights naked. They then proceeded to lift weights together while they were naked. When he told his parents about the naked weight lifting incident, they were shocked and told him to stay away from Kondzielski.
When confronted with this allegations, Kondzielski claimed he did not remember the incident, but did not deny it because it could have happened.
Gerard Krebs
Where he served:
7/26/1964 – 6/3/1970: Secondary Education Venango Christian, High School, Oil City, PA
7/26/1964 – 6/3/1970: Weekend Assistant, St. Stephen’s, Oil City, PA
6/3/1970 – 9/8/1970: Parochial Vicar, Our Lady Queen of the Americas, Conneaut Lake, PA
6/3/1970 – 9/8/1970: Resident, St. Stephen’s Rectory, Oil City, PA
9/8/1970 – 12/6/1978: Parochial Vicar, Erie, St. John the Baptist
12/6/1978 – 1/27/1983: Pastor, Holy Cross Church, Brandy Camp, PA
1/27/1983 – 6/30/1990: Pastor, St. Patrick, Erie, PA
3/1/1990 – 5/4/1990: Health Leave, Guest House, Rochester, MN
6/30/1990 – 1/6/1992: Pastor, St. Patrick, Erie, PA
1/6/1992 – 12/31/2003: Director of RCIA, Diocesan Office, Erie, PA
1/6/1992 – 2/4/1994: Resident, Blessed Sacrament, Erie, PA
2/4/1994 – 3/27/2004: Resident, St. Joseph/Bread of Life, Erie, PA
4/10/1996 – 10/1/1996: Chaplain, Soldiers & Sailors Home
11/17/1996 – 5/8/1997: Weekend Assistant, St. Patrick, Erie, PA
11/22/1996 – 12/31/2003: Director of Activities/Coming Millennium, Diocesan Office, Erie, PA
1/1/04 – 5/25/2005: Retired, Priest Retirement Residence, Erie, PA
Summary: Three known victims came forward indicating that they were sexually abused by Father Gerard Krebs.
One victim alleged that Krebs led him through “a series of sexual rituals to both prove my faith and the fact that I was not a homosexual.
The grand jury found no documentation indicating that law enforcement was ever notified about any of Krebs interactions with his victims.
Jerry (John) Kucan
Where he served:
1952-1954: St. Anthony’s, Sharon, PA
1954-1961: St. Joseph’s, Bethlehem, PA
1961-1972: St. Mary’s, Steelton, PA
1972-1973: Our Lady of Peace Friary, Beaver Falls, PA
1973-1977: St. Anthony’s, Sharon, PA
1977-1978: Sacred Heart, Milwaukee, WI
1978-1979: Beaver Falls Friary, Beaver Falls, PA
1979-1982: St. Mary’s, Steelton, PA
1982-1985: St. Jerome’ s, Chicago, IL
1985-1986: Sacred Heart, Milwaukee, WI
1986-1988: St. Anthony’s, Chicago, IL
1988-1994: St. Augustine’ s, West Allis, WI
1994-1995: Sacred Heart, Chicago, IL
1995-2005: St. Anthony’s Friary, Chicago, IL
Summary: In February of 2005, a 29 year old man wrote a letter to the Diocese of Erie in which he stated that he had attended St. Anthony’s School in Sharon, Pennsylvania and that in
1974 he began serving midnight mass. Victim #1 stated that “Father Jerry” began an inappropriate relationship with him at that time. They would have special meetings together. Kucan told the victim that if he ever told anyone about their relationship, his mother would lose her job in the school kitchen and he would be kicked out of school. The victim wrote in the letter that he would go to confession weekly to confess his sins and that Kucan would tell him that the slate was wiped clean.
Kucan would perform oral sex on the-then eight year old. The letter also alleged that Kucan would have a brother in a brown robe present on some occasions and that this brother would also perform oral sex on the victim.
Father Kucan was taken out of the ministry in March 2005, when the Order received its first complaint against him. The Order settled with the victim filing the complaint. The file note also indicated that Kucan was then in his mid- eighties and in the early stages of dementia.
There is nothing contained in this file that shows that any actual correspondence between the Church and the District Attorney occurred.
Louis Lorei
Where he served:
9/1981 – 9/1985: Pastor, Our Lady of Peace, Erie, PA
Unknown: Possibly Gannon University
Summary: In December 2009, Father Mark Hoffman called the Bishop’s office to report an allegation involving child sexual abuse by Monsignor Louis Lorei. The parents of a boy had approached him to report that their son stated he “was touched by Monsignor Lorei” in the early 1980’s. Bishop Trautman later met with the victim.
The victim stated that about 1980 or 1981, he was a student, roughly age 11 to 13, at Our Lady of Peace school. He was also an altar server during early mass with Lorei. On one occasion, Lorei invited him into the rectory and into his bedroom. Lorei had the victim sit on the bed while Lorei sat next to him and hugged and kissed him on the lips. This would occur several days in a row, stop, and then begin again. The victim eventually refused to serve mass with Lorei.
Lorei was soon removed by then -Bishop Murphy. In his own handwritten words, Trautman expressed the personal belief that Lorei’ s sudden departure may likely have been indicative of some kind of significant event. Trautman offered the victim counseling services. Financial assistance was also discussed. In a memorandum dated March 30, 2007, Hoffman also documented an additional victim of Lorei. Hoffman found out through the father of the second victim that his son was allegedly abused by Lorei. The victim reportedly described the incident during a United Methodist retreat in 2000.
A small note in the file states “Review Board found no merit in processing since supposed victim did not come forth even after requests.”
It is unknown who the request refers to.
Salvatore P. Luzzi
Where he served:
6/09/1962 – 8/29/1968: Faculty, Venango Christian High. Residence at St. Joseph, Oil City, PA
8/28/1968 – 8/28/1969: Sp. Ministry, St. Mark’s Seminary, Erie, PA
8/28/1968 – 7/16/1972: Dean/Collegians, St. Mark’s Seminary, Erie, PA
7/16/1972 – 5/05/1979: Sp. Ministry, St. Mark’s Seminary, Erie, PA
5/05/1979 – 7/19/1994: Pastor, St. Joseph, Warren, PA
3/19/1991 – 8/01/1994: Sp. Ministry, Dean/Warren Co. Deanery, St Joseph, Warren, PA
7/19/1994 – 2/10/1995: Sick Leave
5/05/1979 – 9/15/1995: Resided at St. Joseph
9/15/1995 – currently: Faculties removed
Summary: After several years teaching at Venango Christian High School, Reverend Salvatore P. Luzzi was moved to St. Mark’s Seminary, where he filled several roles. Over the course of his 30 year ministry, he was accused of sexual misconduct by eight male victims ranging in age from early teens to early twenties. Some of these victims were groped, inappropriately kissed, hugged, and/or fondled. He also faced allegations of responsibility for the suicide of a former student/victim.
Luzzi worked extensively with young would-be priests at St. Mark’s where he and fellow priest Leon Muroski served as Spiritual Directors to the seminarians. Luzzi’s inappropriate touching and fondling of at least two seminarians prompted the Diocese to settle with those seminarians for large sums of money. The first former Seminarian’s case was settled in civil court for $34,500 and this individual received several thousand dollars over the course of the many years that the Diocese paid for his counseling and medication costs.
Several other former juvenile victims of Luzzi received letters or phone calls of apology from the Diocese. These victims were counseled by the Diocese through correspondence or in person interviews wherein Luzzi’s behavior was dismissed as “Sal’s way of expressing himself and his “touching approach” to ministry was attributed to his Italian upbringing.
In 1994, Bishop Trautman sent both Luzzi and Muroski to St. Luke’s Institute for therapy. The Diocese publicly announced that Luzzi was going on an extended sabbatical for “personal, spiritual and academic growth.” Once Luzzi was discharged, the Bishop welcomed him back into pastoral ministry by letter on February 14, 1995. However, the welcome also came with several conditions and a Penial Precept, a formal notification in the church that restricts ministry.
Trautman directed Luzzi to refrain from all contact with youth under 19 years of age and to avoid travel and social interaction with such parishioners. Later that same year, in September 1995, Trautman had Luzzi’ s faculties as a priest removed and Luzzi began residing in a private residence, where he remains today.
Ricahrd D. Lynch
Where he served:
6/01/1963 – 5/26/1972: Secondary Education Bradford Central Christian High School, Bradford, PA
5/26/1972 – 2/18/1983: Headmaster, Secondary Education Bradford Central Christian High School, Bradford, PA
2/18/1983 – 8/30/1999: Pastor, Erie Holy Rosary, Erie, PA
1984-1994:Dean, East Erie Deanery, Erie, PA
8/31/1999 – Death: Pastor, St. Mark’s the Evangelist, Erie, PA
Summary: The victim claims Lynch slammed him into the wall and this resulted in a trauma to his head.
In a letter dated June 3, 2016, the victim stated that he wanted to write the Bishop to get some things off his chest. He alleged that Father Richard Lynch was responsible for the sexual abuse that he went through while attending Bradford Central Catholic Christian High School 1978-1979. He said he told Bishop Trautman about some physical abuse, but was too ashamed to talk about the sexual abuse.
Daniel Martin
Where he served:
1943 – 1945: Parochial Vicar, Sacred Heart, Sharon, PA
1945 – 1962: Faculty, Erie Cathedral Preparatory High School, Erie, PA
1948 – 1962: Assistant Headmaster, Erie Cathedral Preparatory, Erie, PA
1950-1962: Chaplain, Mercyhurst College
1962-1970: Pastor, St. Boniface, Kersey, PA
1962-1970: Headmaster, Elk Co. Christian High School, St. Mary’s, PA
1970-1974: Pastor, St. Joseph, Oil City, PA
1974- 1986: Pastor, St. George, Erie, PA
1984: Prelate of Honor, titled Monsignor
1986-1987: Retired, Residence at Mt. Calvary, Erie, PA
1987: Chaplain, Mercyhurst College for Religious women
2003: Blessed Sacrament, Residence
Summary: Monsignor Daniel Martin was a priest the in the Diocese of Erie for 43 -three years who faced two known allegations of sexual abuse. The grand jury’s review of his files found very little documented evidence of his abuse of a teenager who was an alter server in his parish. That victim would go on to become a priest himself and appeared in front of the grand jury to tell his story.
He reported that when he was upset over the troubles of his life, he would seek Martin’s counsel. He testified that Martin sexually fondled him on at least sixteen occasions between the ages of sixteen and nineteen.
Other victims came forward with similar encounters.
Redacted – pending litigation
The name of the priest, where he served and the exact incident was entirely redacted in the grand jury report.
Leon T. Muroski
Where he served:
6/11/1960 – 9/01/1967: Parochial Vicar, St. Luke, Erie, PA
3/30/1961 – N/A: Chaplain, Erie County T.B. Hospital
9/01/1960 – 6/16/1967: Special Ministry, Faculty, St. Mark’s, Erie, PA
6/16/1967 – 10/12/1982: Diocese Office, St. Mark’s Seminary, Erie, PA
10/12/1982 – 9/01/1995: Pastor, Our Lady of the Lake, Edinboro, PA
5/1994: Sent to St. Luke’s Institute for Psychological Treatment
9/01/1995-6/01/1997: Retired, St. Casimirs, Rectory, Erie, PA
6/01/1997-4/01/2001: The Christophers, Unknown duties, New York, NY,
5/03/2001: Resident, St. Patrick’s, Erie, PA
9/01/2001 – 3/11/2002: Chaplain, Pleasant Ridge Manor West, Girard, PA
1/2320/03 – N/A: St. Patrick’s, Unassigned
12/10/2015 – Present: Diocese Retirement Home, Erie, PA
Summary: After 20 years of administrative duties, Muroski finally got his own parish. This ministry lasted from 1982 until1995, but was abruptly halted when in the early 1990s Muroski was accused of sexual misconduct while he was a Spiritual Director at the seminary. Muroski was sent to St. Luke’s Institute in Suitland, Maryland, for individual psychotherapy in 1994 after he admitted to inappropriate contact with the seminarians under his watch. These seminarians were all male, eighteen to twenty-three-year olds, when Muroski would counsel them. This counselling included allegations of full body massages, kissing, masturbation and fondling of the seminarians’ buttocks and genitals. Muroski would eventually be placed back into ministry after therapy at St. Luke’s and served in the Diocese of Erie and in The Christophers program in New York City.
In 2001, Muroski returned to the Diocese of Erie from The Christophers and was retired. Muroski was permitted to move into the retired priest home in 2002, which is where he still resides. In 2016, the Diocese rostered a list of all the retired clergy living in the home and made it public. Muroski was not listed as a resident. It was at this residence that the grand jury found him living in 2017, however.
Edmundus Murphy
No further details regarding where he served were provided.
Summary: On December 21, 2007 an e-mail communication was sent to Monsignor Robert Smith, Vicar General of the Diocese of Erie from the Society of the Divine Word in Techny, Ilinois. The purpose of the e-mail was to inform Smith that a victim was sexually abused by a staff member while he was a minor at Sacred Heart High School in 1964. This school was operated by the Society of the Divine Word Missionaries in Girard.
The victim claimed that during the summer between his freshman and sophomore years of high school, Brother Edmundus Murphy, who was 33 years of age at this time, was the wrestling coach at the school. Murphy encouraged the victim to join the team and, under the pretense of teaching him some wrestling moves, the two wrestled naked “as the ancient Greeks and Romans did.” The victim alleged that during these “wrestling” sessions he was sodomized by Murphy.
Immediately after the incident, the victim asked Murphy what he was doing and, according to the victim, Murphy sat on the floor and began to cry.
The grand jury investigation found no documentation that the Diocese notified local law enforcement or the District Attorney’s Office about Murphy’s behavior. The only note in the file was a handwritten notation on top of the printed out e-mail which read; “not responsible-Priest/Deacon only.”
John L. Murray
Where he served:
5/31/1947 – 5/28/1955: Sacred Heart, Parochial Vicar with Residence, Sharon, PA
5/28/1955 – 6/11/1960: St. Paul, Parochial Vicar with Residence, Erie, PA
8/25/1959 – 6/11/1960: St. Paul, Parochial Vicar with Residence. Special Duties, Part-Time Faculty, Erie Cathedral Preparatory, Erie, PA
6/11/1960 – 8/01/1966: Special Ministry, Erie Cathedral Preparatory, Erie, PA
8/27/1966 – 1/31/1969: Special Ministry, DuBois Central Catholic HS, Special Duties, Headmaster, DuBois, PA
6/16/1967 – 10/15/1968: St. Bernard, Administration with Residence, Falls Creek, PA
10/15/1968 – 5/26/1972: Health Leave
5/26/1972 – 1/04/1974: Special Ministry, Vicar Assistant with Residence, Our Lady Queen of the Americas, Conneaut Lake, PA
1/04/1974 – 6/01/1979: Pastor with Residence, Our Lady Queen of the Americas, Conneaut Lake, PA
6/01/1979 – 10/15/1985: Pastor with Residence, St. Matthew in the Wood, Erie, PA
10/15/1985 – 6/01/1987: Sick Leave
6/01/1987: Restricted, Erie, PA
Summary: Murray molested young boys in a church rectory before serving mass, as well as in recreational settings such as the lake shore. A review of his Diocesan file revealed that, as a result, the Diocese paid thousands of dollars in therapy fees and civil settlements. Two of his victims each received monetary settlements in the amount of $25,000 each. The first allegation of sexual abuse against Murray was made in 1967. In was reported that in the summer of 1966, Murray, while in a social setting with the victim’s family at the shore, allegedly fondled the young boy in the water and on shore.
This incident was brought to the attention of the boy’s parents and Bishop John F. Whealon in 1967. There was no indication in the file that law enforcement was notified. Whealon’ s personal notes revealed that he confronted Murray with the accusation and spoke with the victim’s father on a number of occasions. Murray partially denied the allegation by telling the Bishop that the victim has “an overactive imagination,” and that any touching was accidental due to normal roughhousing with the boy.
In April of 1985, Murray was charged by the Pennsylvania State Police with one count each of indecent assault and corruption of minors. He eventually pled guilty to both charges, was sentenced to twelve months’ probation and fined. This incident was the result of Murray sexually molesting a 12 -year-old boy who was preparing to serve mass in the church rectory.
One year later, the church paid the victim’s family a settlement in the amount of of $25,000.
As a result of Murray’s second instance of child molestation, the Diocese disciplined him by removing his priestly faculties in 1985. While awaiting sentencing on his criminal charges, the Diocese sent Murray to two treatment facilities. After several years of treatment, paid for by the Diocese, Murray was retired and moved to his family home in Philadelphia. As of 2007, he was still receiving money to pay for his therapy.
Giles L. Nealen
Where he served:
1944-1951:Monastic maintenance department, St. Vincent Arch Abbey
1954-1963: Monastic maintenance department, St. Vincent Arch Abbey
1949-1951: Scholasticate Perfect
1951-1954: Assistant Pastor, Sacred Heart, St. Mary’s, PA
1954-1963: Prefect, St. Vincent Scholasticate
1954-1963: Director of Food Service
1956-1963: Master of Brothers
1964: Pastor, St. James, Waynesburg, OH
1964-1967: Superior, St. Benedictine Priort, Vinhedo, S. P. Brazil
1967-1968: Administrator, St. Benedict, Marguerite
1968-1971: Assistant Pastor, Queen of the World, St. Mary’s, PA
1971-1972: Pastor, St. Bruno, South Greensburg, PA
1972-1980: Pastor, St. James, Waynesburg, OH
1990-1992: Pastor, Sacred Heart, St. Mary’s, PA
Summary: A letter dated January 25, 1993 from a victim stated that 23 years earlier, he was sexually abused by Father Giles L. Nealen. At that time, Nealon was assigned to Queen of the World church in St. Mary. This letter stated that Nealen sexually abused him and two of his friends, but he was unsure if the other two victims would come forward. In this letter, the victim begged the church to keep Nealen away from other young boys so that they would not also be sexually assaulted by the priest.
Another finding was a cassette tape enclosed in Nealen’s file labeled “victim’s father.” It was an on-air interview from the show, “Erie in the morning.” The victim’s father told the hosts of the radio show that he was approached by a friend who told him that he had “walked in on” this priest sexually abusing his own son and was concerned that the son of this man had also been sexually abused. When the father asked his young son if anyone had ever touched him, he claimed that his son started to cry and told him that their local priest had.
The victim’s father told the radio hosts how this priest was “part oftheir family” and that he would come and stay the entire weekend at their home. His son told him that the priest would come into his room after he and his wife went to bed to sexually abuse him. The victim’s father claims his son would have been between the ages of nine and fourteen at the time of this abuse.
When the victim’s father confronted the priest, who had recently left the parish, he claimed the priest did not deny that he sexually abused his son and told him the reason he did it was because “his son needed love.” When the victim’s father told the priest he wanted them to go to the Bishop and tell him what happened, that the priest refused to go because he didn’t want to be removed and that he would lose his pension. The victim’s father tried several times to set up a meeting with the Bishop to discuss the sexual abuse, but he claims it never worked out.
The Diocesan files received pursuant to subpoena contained no information on any of these victim’s statuses or if any of them were offered counseling. The grand jury investigation found no documentation that the Diocese of Erie notified local law enforcement or the District Attorney’s office about Nealen’ s long history of sexually abusing numerous young boys.
Jan Olowin
Where he served:
1966: Jesuit Missions, Juliaca, Peru
1967: Migrant Ministry, Erie, PA
6/16/1968 – 9/02/1970: St. Patrick, Erie, PA
6/16/1968 – 9/02/1970: Faculty, Cathedral Preparatory, Erie, PA
9/02/1970 – 3/09/1984: St. Patrick, Erie, PA
8/16/1971 – 1/31/1983: Chaplain, Soldiers and Sailors Home
3/09/1984 – 8/25/1986: St. Adalbert, Sharon, PA
8/25/1986 – 11/07/1992: St. Joseph, Oil City, PA
11/07/1992 – 6/28/1998: St. George, Erie, PA
6/28/1998 – 12/21/1998: Sabbatical, American College of Louvain
12/21/1998 – 6/05/1999: St. Joseph, Sharon, PA
6/06/1999 – 12/31/2007: Chaplain, FCI McKean, Bradford, PA
1/01/2008 – 8/21/2008: Sabbatical
8/22/2008 – 8/31/2012: St. Michael, Emlenton, PA
8/22/2008 – 8/31/2012: Chaplain, Clarion University of Pennsylvania, Clarion, PA
10/21/2016 – 11/04/2016: Temporary Parochial Administrator, St. Elizabeth Seton, Sun City, AZ
Summary: The Diocese of Erie personnel file for Father Jan Olowin contained a document entitled “Summary of Phone Conversation.” One of Olowin’s three known victims said he was disillusioned with the Church when Olowin was appointed pastor of St. George.
On November 4, 2016, Bishop Lawrence Persico wrote a letter to Olowin, now retired in Peoria, Arizona, indicating that he had learned of an allegation of clerical misconduct made several decades ago against Olowin. Persico’ s letter did not mention details, but it referenced a phone call that Persico and Olowin had the day before.
The grand jury can infer that Persico outlined Olowin’s offenses in this call and articulated the reason for the letter in greater detail. This letter officially restricted Olowin from public exercise of all priestly ministry until further notice.
Andrew Pawlaczyk
Where he served:
6/09/1962 – 1971: Faculty, Cathedral Preparatory, Erie PA
1/22/1971 – 1976: Chaplain, United States Army
8 /1976 – 1978: Chaplain, Hamot Medical Center, Erie PA
5/01/1978 – 1982: Chaplain, Unites States Army
Summary: In a letter dated April 20, 2011 and addressed to Bishop Trautman, a victim reported abuse by Father Andrew Pawlaczyk. On one occasion, they went swimming without bathing suits. After swimming they went back to the cottage. Pawlaczyk took the victim into the bedroom and told him that he was going to give him a massage. The victim was face down on the bed with no clothes on. Pawlaczyk then sat on the victim’s buttocks, wearing no clothes, while he massaged him. Then they reversed roles. After they were done, the victim found ejaculate in the bed which was not from him.
This happened on other “trips” the two took together.
The Grand Jury did not find any documentation that indicated that the Diocese ever reported the case to local law enforcement. Additionally, there is no indication that the Diocese offered any counselling to the victim.
John A. Piatkowski
Where he served:
11/11/1935-5/21/1948: St. Stanislaus Koska, Erie/Tyler, PA
5/22/1948-11/16/1970: Assumption, Sykesville, PA
Summary: In a letter dated March 16, 1955 and addressed to the Bishop of Erie, a victim reported abuse by Father John A. Piatkowski. He advised that at the age of 12, he became an altar boy.
During his time as an altar boy, Piatkowski began to kiss the victim and tell him that he loved him. He took the victim for rides and to the movies. It was during this time that Piatkowski would play with the victim’s penis until he had an orgasm.
On numerous other occasions, Piatkowski committed similar abuse on the victim in the church basement and in the parish house where Piatkowski lived. The victim related that while he felt that the entire situation did not seem right, he was afraid to tell his parents for fear that they would not have believed him.
David L. Poulson
Where he served:
7/05/1979 – 6/09/1982: Faculty, Bradford Central Christian High School, Bradford, PA; Weekend Education, St. Francis of Assisi, Bradford, PA
6/09/1982 – 8/24/1997: Faculty, Gannon University
6/01/1991 – 8/24/1997: Director, Parochial Administrator Gannon University
8/24/1997 – 12/03/1997: Administrator, St. Francis of Assisi, Clearfield, PA
12/03/1997 – 6/06/2000: Pastor, St. Agnes, Morrisdale, PA
6/06/2000 – 7/24/2001: Sp. Ministries, Clarion University/Catholic Chaplain
6/07/2000 – 6/30/2006: Pastor, St. Michael, Fryburg, PA
8/08/2000: Chaplain, Dio. Div. of World Apostolate of Fatima
7/01/2006 – 11/08/2010: Pastor, St Michael (2nd 6 year term), Fryburg, PA
11/08/2010 – 11/08/2016: Pastor, St. Anthony of Padua
11/08/2010 – 11/08/2016: Pastor, St. Bernadette, Cambridge Springs, PA
1/13/2012 – 9/11/2014: Dean, Meadville Deanery, Complete term of Father O’Hern
11/01/2013 – 10/31/2018*: Other, Bishop’s Delegate to Mass in the Extraordinary
11/29/2013 – 11/28/2018*: Other, Diocesan Liaison to the Catholic Charismatic Renewal
9/12/2014 – 9/11/2019*: Dean, Meadville Deanery
9/12/2014 – 9/11/2019*: Diocesan Board, Presbyteral Council, Erie, PA
Details regarding his allegations were not provided.
William Presley
Where he served:
05/1956-06/1965: St. Cosmas and Damian, Punxsutawney
06/1965-08/1970: Elk County Christian High School, St. Marys
05/1971-08/1971: Immaculate Conception, Brookville
05/1972-08/1971: Our Lady Queen of the Americas, Conneaut Lake
08/1970-06/1976: Leave of Absence, Graduate and Student Counselor, Notre Dame, Indiana
06/1976-06/1977: Leave of Absence, St. Joseph University, Philadelphia
06/1977 – 06/1978: Leave of Absence, Campus Minister, University of Maryland, Baltimore, Maryland
06/1978-08/1981: St. Therese, Shinglehouse
06/1971-08/1981: Sacred Heart Mission, Genesee
08/1981-03/1983: Leave of Absence, Parish Ministry in Raleigh, North Carolina
03/1983-03/1988: St. Agnes, Morrisdale (three separate assignments)
03/1988-04/1990: Leave of Absence, Outside the Diocese
04/1990-07/2000: Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Sykesville (three separate assignments)
07/2000: Retired in Lancaster (Diocese of Harrisburg)
Summary: The Diocese of Erie was first aware of Father William Presley’s sexual abuses as early as November 1987, during his assignment as Pastor of St. Agnes. These sexual abuses, as reported to the Diocese, involved two victims and spanned nearly sixteen years. One of the victims had been abused as recently as 1986. The second victim was abused prior to 1971 when he was a high school student in another parish.
Following an evaluation in April 1990, Murphy placed Presley in a temporary assignment. That assignment was made permanent in June 1990. Shortly thereafter, Trautman allowed Presley to remain in his position as Pastor and Administrator at the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Church in Sykesville, Jefferson County. One of the victims was as young as 13 years old when it occurred.
The abuse of these individuals consisted of “choking, slapping, punching, rape, sodomy, fellatio, anal intercourse,” and other acts according to Diocesan records reviewed by the Grand Jury. On April 18, 2002, Trautman contacted Presley by telephone. Trautman recorded that, during that call, Presley admitted the sexual abuse of the victims. Trautman revoked Presley’s priestly faculties later that year.
In April 2003, and in response to media inquiries about Presley, the Diocese of Erie issued a press release stating, among other things, that Presley’s priestly faculties were removed in July 2002 shortly after the allegations prompted the Diocese to conduct an internal investigation.
John Philip Schanz
Where he served:
6/05/1950 – 09/01/1950: Temporary Parochial Administrator; St. Elizabeth, Smethport, PA
9/01/1950 – 10/01/1996: Faculty; Professor of Theology, Gannon University, Erie, PA
9/01/1950 – 10/01/1996: Weekend Assistant, Holy Cross, Fairview, PA
6/13/1960 – 10/01/1996: Regional Director of the College Branch
Of the Confraternity of Christian Doctrine Gannon College, Mercyhurst College & Villa Maria College
4/06/1962: Examiner of Junior Clergy of the Diocese of Erie
3/08/1967: Appointed as Advocate of the Tribunal of the Diocese of Erie
5/14/1969: Advocate of the Tribunal of the Diocese of Erie
10/01/1996-4/17/2002: Retires from Gannon University to private residence
4/17/2002: Withdraws from Priestly Ministry and removed of any faculties
4/16/2010: Deceased
Summary: Based on information provided by the Diocese of Erie, a victim wrote a letter to Bishop Donald Trautman that was postmarked April 11, 2002. In the letter, the victim detailed an assault which occurred in 1969 or 1970 when he was going into seventh or eighth grade and was an altar boy at St. Andrew and The Villa. According to the victim, he met John Philip Schanz,who invited him to his apartment on the southwest corner of 6th and Sassafras Street. Schanz began to wrestle the boy and grab his body. When the victim asked his older brother, who was a Gannon College student at the time, if he knew of Schanz, his brother began to laugh and remarked “you mean the one who likes little boys?”
After addressing the incident, the Diocese reimbursed the victim $32,000 for his counseling. Another victim came forward years later, writing the diocese a letter from prison. He said that while attending a Gannon University Basketball game, Schanz approached him and asked him to attend each game. The victim did and after each game was instructed to go to Schanz’s rectory where they would drink and wrestle.
The victim was 12 or 13 years of age at the time. The victim went on to note that he was writing the letter from prison. He stated that he was incarcerated as a result of crimes that he had committed under the influence of drugs and alcohol. He attributed his substance abuse problem to the sexual abuse that he had endured at the hands of Schanz years prior. The victim sought acknowledgement from the church that they had received the letter and expressed a desire to know if Schanz was still alive and whether or not he was still victimizing individuals.
The bishop responded to the letter telling him Schanz was no longer practicing the sacrament and was in frail health.
Samuel B. Slocum
Where he served:
6/0519/80 – 8/12/1983: Secondary Education, DuBois C.C. High School, DuBois, PA
6/05/1980 – 8/12/1983: Weekend Asst. St. Michael, DuBois, PA
8/12/1983 – 6/14/1985: Secondary Education, Elk Co. Catholic St. Mary’s, PA
8/12/1983 – 6/14/1985: Resident at Faculty House, Elk Co. Catholic School, St Mary’s, PA
11/15/1984 – 6/14/1985: Resident at Holy Rosary, Johnsonburg, PA
1/05/1985 – 6/14/1985: Administrator, St. Benedict, Ridgway, PA
6/14/1985 – 8/07/1989: Secondary Education, Erie Cathedral Preparatory, Erie, PA;
6/14/1985 – 8/07/1989:Weekend Asst. Holy Trinity, Erie, PA Secondary Education, Bradford Central Christian High School, Bradford, PA
8/07/1989 – 11/19/1990: Secondary Education, Bradford Central Christian High School, Bradford, PA
8/07/1989 – 11/01/1994: Weekend Asst., St. Bernard, Eldred, PA
11/19/1990 – 11/01/1994: Administrator, St. Bernard, Eldred, PA
11/01/1994 – 11/03/1997: Administrator, St. Bernard, Eldred, PA
11/01/1994 – 8/01/1995: Secondary Education, Bradford Central Christian High School, Bradford, PA
8/01/1995 – 12/15/1997: Sick Leave
1/26/1997 – 6/30/1999: Administrator, St. Theresa Shinglehouse
11/0319/97 – 7/31/2001: Pastor with residence, St. Raphael, Eldred, PA
8/01/2001 – 4/01/2011:Pastor with residence, Our Mother of
Perpetual Help, Ephrata, PA
8/01/2001-4/01/2011: Pastor, St. Francis of Assisi
4/01/2011: Leave of Absence/Suspension
Summary: Father Samuel B. Slocum testified before the Grand Jury on September 14, 2017, detailing his days as a priest in the Diocese of Erie. In 2012, a jury found him guilty of the crimes of concealment of the whereabouts of a child and corruption of minors.
Slocum testified that in 1980 he had been reported to Monsignor Heberlein by a fellow priest for an alleged inappropriate relationship with a fourteen -year-old girl. Slocum testified that Heberlein and then -Bishop Michael Murphy knew about his relationship with the young girl, but did nothing about it. In this same year, Slocum also recalled having a relationship with a sixteen-year-old boy. He testified that he would not call his relationships with these children.
Thomas Smith
Where he served:
06/16/1967-08/15/1967: Our Lady of Peace, Erie
09/15/1967-06/03/1970: Sacred Heart, Erie
06/03/1970-02/12/1971: St. Patrick, Franklin
02/12/1971-07/16/1972: Notre Dame, Hermitage
07/16/1972-06/23/1978: St John the Baptist, Erie
06/23/1978-06/01/1981: St. Cosmas and St. Damian, Punxsutawney
06/01/1981-10/23/1984: St. Mary of the Assumption, Frenchville
02/01/1984-10/01/1984: Health Leave
03/08/1984 03/08/1989: Presbyterian Council, Erie
10/23/1984-02/05/1985: St. Joseph, DuBois
02/05/1985-03/12/1985: St. Hippolyte, Guys Mills
08/08/1985-09/16/1985: St. Joseph, Mt. Jewett
09/16/1985-12/12/1986: St. Teresa, Union City
12/12/1986-04/22/1987: Health Leave, Girard, Ecclesia Center
04/22/1987-11/30/1987: Health Leave, Suitland, Maryland, St. Luke’s Institute
12/01/1987 09/01/1992: St. Joseph, Warren
09/01/1992 05/01/1994: Holy Rosary, Erie
05/01/1994: Pleasant Ridge Manor, East Mercy Motherhouse
05/01/1994: Sisters of Mercy Motherhouse, Erie
05/01/1994: St. Patrick’s, Erie, St. Hedwig Cluster
Summary: Bishop Michael Murphy was first told of child sexual abuse perpetrated by Smith against a 17 -year -old boy in January 1984 while at Saint Mary’s. Smith resigned on January 20, 1984.
Secret Diocesan records obtained by the Grand Jury pursuant to a subpoena showed that, while in treatment, Smith admitted to sexually molesting at least fifteen children. Smith stated that all of his victims were boys, some as young as seven. Smith had raped them anally and orally. This information was provided to Murphy in November 1987. That same month, Smith was discharged from the facility. In spite of Smith’s confession to sexually violating at least fifteen prepubescent boys, Murphy assigned Smith to the parish of Saint Joseph’s in Warren on December 7, 1987.
Approximately three months later, in March 1988, Father Glenn Whitman wrote a letter to Smith and advised him of recent conduct that placed him in violation of his aftercare agreement with St. Luke’s Institute. Regardless, Smith continued in ministry at Saint Joseph’s.
Thomas Snyderwine
Where he served:
6/05/1968 – 6/03/1971: Weekend Asst., St. Michael, DuBois, PA
6/05/1968 – 6/03/1971: Faculty, DuBois Central Catholic, DuBois, PA
1/01/1970 – 6/01/1970: Administrator, St. Joseph, DuBois, PA
6/03/1971 – 6/05/1976: Faculty, Erie Cathedral Preparatory, Erie, PA
6/03/1971 – 5/31/1974: Weekend Asst., St. Boniface, Erie, PA
5/31/1974 – 6/05/1976: Weekend Asst., St. Patrick’s School, Erie, PA
6/05/1976 – 9/01/1979: Parochial Vicar, St. Patrick’s, Erie, PA
9/01/1979 – 8/17/1992: Weekend Asst., St. George, Erie, PA
9/01/1979 – 8/17/1992: Higher Education, Gannon University, Erie PA
8/17/1992 – 9/05/1997: Pastor, St Paul, Erie, PA
9/05/1997 – 8/10/2012: Pastor, St. Luke’s, Erie, PA
9/01/2009 – 8/10/2014: Diocesan Presbyterian Council, Erie, PA
8/10/2012: Retired, Private residence
10/14/2013 – 10/13/2018: Other. Sr. Priest Advocate
9/12/2014 – 9/11/2019: Diocesan Board. Presbyterian Council, Erie, PA
Summary: Sometime in 1996, a young fifth grade girl came to talk with Sister Steff at St. Boniface school. The child was a student of Steff’s. Steff also served as the principal at the school. The girl approached her with her friends because she had disturbing news to report. The young girl told Steff that her godfather, Monsignor Thomas Snyderwine, had taken a shower with her and touched her in ways that she was uncomfortable with. The child reported that this incident occurred five years prior when she stayed overnight at Snyderwine’ s trailer.
John Tome
Where he served:
9/03/1963 – 5/31/1967: St. Marks’s Seminary High School, Erie PA
Unknown -5/14/1974: St. Mark’s Major Seminary, Erie, PA
Summary: The Grand Jury heard testimony from and about five members of the same family that Tome had abused in the 1970s. The survivors reported that they were poor, dysfunctional, and dependent upon the diocese for their mother’s employment at St. Brigid parish. Furthermore, the parents were befriended by the abusers and the family would often invite them over to engage in drinking parties. Each of the victims testified to the Grand Jury about similar statements that their abuser made to threaten them if they ever disclosed the abuse.
The victims from the family were ages 12 years old and younger.
Patrick Vallimont
No further details were listed.
Summary: In a letter to the Vatican dated July 7, 1977, Vallimont requested laicization. He disclosed in that document that he had serious doubts about living a life of celibacy. His file noted that he had short sexual relationship with a 13 -year-old female parishioner. The Grand Jury found little to no documentation of this relationship in the subpoenaed files received from the Diocese.
Vallimont ended the relationship with the 13 -year -old victim when he was released from a treatment facility. There were no documents found in the file that indicate that the case was ever turned over to law enforcement.
Redacted – pending litigation
The name of the priest, where he served and the exact incident was entirely redacted in the grand jury report.
Diocese of Greensburg
Father Dennis Dellamalva
6/03/1975: Mt. St. Peter, New Kensington, PA
8/17/1977: Mother of Sorrows, Murrysville, PA
5/25/1982: Holy Family, Latrobe, PA
10/01/1983: Leave of Absence
Summary: During his short tenure with the Diocese of Greensburg, numerous allegations were made against Dellamalva:
In 1981 and 1982, two adolescent boys said they were sexually assaulted by Dellamalva both in the boys’ home and on trips Dellamalva was invited. It would start with massages to their necks and backs before working their way to the buttocks and fondling their genitals.
In the same time, a boy who was friends with the brothers said Dellamalva engaged in the same sexual behavior with the third victim as he did with the brothers.
A fourth victim said that while he was an altar boy at Mother of Sorrows, he “had the misfortune of attending an annual mountain ‘retreat’” when he was in grades nine through 12.
A fifth victim said Dellamalva made him lay on the rectory floor with him and removed the victim’s pants and t-shirt. Dellamalva told the victim to close his eyes and meditate, at which point he performed oral sex on him.
Father Greg Flohr
6/3/1964 – 6/24/1968: All Saints, Masontown, PA
6/25/1968 – 6/10/1971: Immaculate Conception, Irwin, PA
6/11/1971 – 6/2/1975: Seton Hill College, Greensburg, PA
6/3/1975 – 8/20/1975: Holy Cross, Iselin, PA
8/21/1975 – 1/28/1981: St. Anthony, Clymer, PA
1/30/1981 – 1/14/1985: St. Mary, Yatesboro & its Mission, St. Gabriel, Nu Mine, PA
1/15/1985 – 1/2/1992: St. Cecilia, Grindstone, PA
1/3/1992 – 1/29/1996: Holy Rosary, Republic, PA
1/30/1996 – 1/2002: St. Matthew, Saltsburg, PA
Summary: Flohr was the leader of the Junior Altar Boys Association, and allegedly touched the victim’s genitals for the first time in 1967. The abuse continued into kissing and oral sex. In November 1969, Flohr allegedly took the victim into the confessional of the Immaculate Conception church and began kissing him and tied him up with a rope. The victim began to scream, so Flohr tried to silence him with oral sex. When the victim refused, “the priest allegedly became angry and sodomized the victim with a crucifix approximately 7” x 5” x 1”.
Father Charles B. Guth
7/1924-4/1925: St. Peter, N.S., Pittsburgh, PA
4/1925-3/1926: St. Andrew, N.S., Pittsburgh, PA
3/1926-8/1928: St. Joseph, Braddock, PA
8/1928-1/1929: St. Bernard, Dormont, PA
1/1929-1/1932: St. Ambrose, N.S. Pittsburgh, PA
1/1932-7/1932: St. Wendelin, Carrick, PA
7/1932-5/1935: Presentation, Midland, PA
5/1935-6/1935: St. Mary, McKees Rocks, PA
6/1935-10/1942: St. James, W. E. Pittsburgh, PA
10/1942-8/1944: St. Mary, Parkers Landing and Mission, St. James, Petrolia, PA
8/1944-11/1962: Holy Family, West Newton, PA
11/1962-5/1973: St. Mary, Kittanning, PA
5/1973: Retired, Residing at St. Mary, Kittanning, PA
8/1982: St. Anne’s Home for the elderly, Greensburg, PA (Resident)
Summary: In July 2005, a victim sent an email regarding abuse suffered by Guth when he was seven years old. After a Sunday school teacher told the victim that missing mass could make you die, he became concerned for his mother who had missed mass. The child ran to the rectory to plead the case for his mother, and began sobbing and “pleading for his mother’s soul.” Guth started speaking of secret confessions and penance, and began pulling the victim’s pants down. He then fondled him, stuck his finger up the victim’s anus. Guth then spoke Latin, and was instructed to pull up his pants when he was done. Guth told the victim that if he told anyone about the secret penance, not only would his mother go to hell, but he (the victim) would burn with her.”
Father Francis Lesniak
8/12/1943 -2/27/1946: St. Monica, Wampum and St. Theresa, Hoytdale, PA
2/28/1946 -2/10/1953: St. Mary, New Kensignton, PA
2/11/1953 -5/14/1953: St. Bernard, Indiana, PA
5/15/1953 -8/3/1954: Transfiguration Church, Mount Pleasant, PA
8/4/1954 -4/3/1956: St. Mary, New Kensington, PA
4/4/1956 -9/7/1960: St. Michael, Glen Campbell and SS Peter & Paul, Arcadia, PA
9/8/1960 -8/31/1965: St. Stanislaus, Calmut, PA
9/1/1965 -6/26/1969: St. Anne, Fellsburg and Holy Cross, Webster, PA
6/27/1969 -5/24/1976: Seven Dolors, Yukon, PA
5/25/1976 -8/1987: St. Francis de Paul, Ford City, PA
Summary: The diocese first received a sexual abuse allegation on Lesniak in 2004. The victim said in 1977, Lesniak touched his genitals in a church rectory. During an incident, Lesniak invited him to stay for an “overnight social for the altar boys” and when he arrived at the rectory, he realized he was the only boy to attend.
When the victim initially informed his mother about what happened, she did not believe him. In 2004, a second victim said he was fondled while on the verge of falling asleep on the rectory couch. A third victim approached the diocese in 2005 and alleged that in 1965 and 66, Lesniak fondled his genitals while at the rectory and in the pool.
In 2007, a fourth victim reported he was sexually abused from 1983 through 1987 or 1988, starting when he was eight years old after his first Holy Communion picnic. Lesniak forced the victim to perform oral sex on him. When the victim became an altar boy, Lesniak told him that altar boys needed to go to confession before every mass they served. Instead of going to a confessional, they went to the back room of the church where “Father Lesniak would listen to his sins and indicated to him that if he was not too bad, he would ‘get to suck on a strawberry lollipop or popcicle.” After confession, Lesniak would expose his penis and tell him it was his “strawberry lollipop.” The scenario occurred dozens of times.
Father Raymond Lukac
No further information is listed in the report.
Father Henry J. Marcinek
7/1956-7/1957: Holy Name, Monessen, PA
7/1957-8/1958: SS Cyril & Methodius, Fairchance, PA
8/1958-6/1960: Holy Trinity, Ford City, PA
6/1960-8/1965: Holy Rosary Church, Republic, PA
8/1965-6/1967: St. Mary Church, Uniontown, PA
6/1967-6/1970: St. Elizabeth Church, Starford, PA & Sacred Heart, Dixonville, PA
6/1970-5/1973: Holy Rosary Church, Republic, PA
5/1973-1/1982: Holy Cross, Youngwood and St. Gilbert Church, Hunker, PA
1/1982-1/1985: St. Pius X, Mt. Pleasant, PA
Summary: In November 2007, a 45-year-old man sent a letter to a parish saying he was sexually assaulted by Marcinek, starting when the victim was 10 in 1972 and until the early 1980s. Marcinek would have oral sex with him after the victim, an altar server, would carry firewood to the rectory. Marcinek allegedly exploited the trust of the family, and often shared a bed with the victim. They stayed in a hotel room together and Marcinek sexually abused him on trips to Sea World and Geauga Lake amusement park in Ohio.
Marcinek often bestowed gifts and money upon him, including a car registered in Marcinek’s name. The victim worried that he may have targed his brother, as the victim overheard him say that “Father Henry kissed me on the lips and he kissed me real hard.”
Greensburg Priest #1
Where he served:
Omitted
Summary: In 1962, Bishop William Connare wrote a memorandum regarding allegations involving a priest then serving in the Diocese of Greensburg an unnamed victim who was a seminarian.
In the note, Connare expressed that he “sincerely hopes that we can contain the whole matter within this circle,” and did not reassign the accused priest out of fear that “too many would connect the two incidents, the dismissal of the seminarian and the removal of the priest.”
Connare expressed concern that the victim’s family would find out, and asked everyone “in the circle” to keep an eye on the priest and send him to a treatment facility where the church would send priests known to have engaged in sexual abuse.
Father Robert Moslener
Further details were not released in the report.
Father Fabian G. Oris
8/27/1942 – 5/14/1953: St. Mary, Brownsville, PA
5/15/1953 – 1/31/1955: St. Bernard, Indiana, PA
2/1/1955 – 3/21/1962: St. Hedwig, Smock, PA
3/22/1962 – 6/10/1971: St. Florian, United, PA
6/11/1971 – 5/2/1973: Holy Rosary, Republic, PA
5/2/1973 – 2/10/1990: St. Mary, Uniontown, PA
Summary: In 2002, a woman said Oris sexually abused her, beginning when she was around four or five years. The victim said Oris fondled and performed oral sex on her while they shared the same bed in St. Hedwig’s rectory. Their relationship was close enough that other children in her class would tease her that she was sleeping with a priest.
The abuse continued after he was transferred to St. Florian in United, when he told her, “I want to make you my woman.”
Oris also sexually abused her older sister from when the older sister was in the third or fourth grade, and continued until she was in fifth grade.
The diocese notified Oris of the accusation, and although he did not recall the details, he apologized.
He said, “I never thought that it would come to this, but young girls are pretty and they throw themselves at you, you say things and do things I guess I never meant to hurt anybody. Their mother knew, but never said anything. I asked if she knew that he sexually abused them and she said no, but she knew that they came to the rectory to sleep overnight.”
Edmond A. Parrakow
Further details were not released in the report.
Father George R. Pierce
6/23/1959 – 12/8/1960: St. Mary, Freeport, PA
12/9/1960 – 2/13/1963: All Saints, Masontown, PA
2/14/1963 – 6/12/1966: Immaculate Conception, Connellsville, PA
6/13/1966 – 6/19/1967: St. Mary and Holy Trinity, Ford City, PA
6/20/1967 – 6/24/1968: Immaculate Conception, Irwin, PA
6/25/1968 – 6/7/1972: St. Gertrude, McIntyre and its mission St. Anthony, Aultman, PA
6/7/1972 – 6/4/1985: Holy Family, Seward and its missions: St. Mary, Bolivar and St. Mary, Florence, PA
6/4/1985 – 6/20/1995: Our Lady of Perpetual Help, Leckrone, PA
6/20/1995 – 5/14/1997: St. James, Maxwell, PA
5/14/1997: Leave of Absence
8/1998: Retired
Summary: In 1997, the diocese received an allegation of sexual abuse against Pierce, stating the abuse began when the victim was 12 in 1968, and continued until she was about 20. The victim worked at the rectory at St. Gertrude. The woman said an average night with Pierce included dinner and alcoholic drinks followed by sexual intercourse.
The victim she felt she had a legitimate romantic relationship with Pierce, and was jealous of another female from Jeannette with whom Pierce had a sexual relationship with.
A diocesan file revealed Bishop William Connare knew about inappropriate behavior between Pierce and a young woman as early as 1972. Pierce was instructed not to hire “a teenage woman from his former parish as housekeeper,” but no further action was taken.
Pierce acknowledged having an inappropriate relationship with the victim, but denied sexual intercourse with her. Rather, he contended they only engaged in mutual masturbation. Pierce said further he was in love with the victim.
Father Gregory F. Premoshis
6/25/1968: St. Paul, Greensburg, PA
6/27/1969: Religion Teacher, Greensburg Catholic High School; Residence at St. Paul
6/9/1980: Religion Teacher, Geibel High School, Connellsville, PA; Residence at Immaculate Conception, Connellsville, PA
7/15/1986: Religion Teacher, Geibel High School, Connellsville, PA; Residence at St. Rita, Connellsville, PA
10/12/1987: Visitation Church, Mt. Pleasant, PA
7/7/1998: President of Geibel Catholic High School, Connellsville; Residence, St. Stanislaus, Calumet, PA
3/19/2002: Administrative Leave
8/2002: Retired
Summary: In 2002, a victim said Premoshis sexually abused him from 1980 to 1982 when he was about 16 or 17 years old. The victim reported that he spend many evenings at the Immaculate Conception rectory, during which he and Premoshis would engage in “rough-housing” including Premoshis fondling and wrestling with the victim while Premoshis was in his underwear. Ultimately, the victim started staying overnight at the rectory and slept in the same bed as Premoshis. One morning, the victim awoke with “cream” on him, which he later realized was semen.
After he was confronted by a Bishop’s representative on March 18,2 002, Premoshis admitted to giving gifts, buying dinner and supplying him with alcohol. He admitted to the wrestling, and said he did become slightly aroused while doing so. He said he also slept in the same bed with the victim on multiple occasions, but denied ejaculating on the victim. He, however, said he “may have had a ‘wet dream’ while they were sleeping in the same bed.”
Father Thomas W. Rogers
1953: St. Edward, Herminie, PA
1953 – 1954: St. Mary, Freeport, PA
1954 -1955: Immaculate Conception, Connellsville, PA
6/29/1955 – 7/4/1956: Immaculate Conception, Irwin, PA
7/5/1956 – 7/7/1958: SS Simon and Jude, Blairsville, PA
7/8/1958 – 1960: St. John the Baptist, Scottdale, PA
1/6/1961: Incardinated in the Diocese of Greensburg, PA
6/3/1965 – 6/24/1968: St. Anthony, Clymer, PA
6/25/1968 – 8/7/1972: St. Charles Borromeo, Suatersville, PA
8/8/1972 – 2/18/1981: St. Mary, Ford City, PA
2/19/1981 – 1/21/1991: Seven Dolars, Yukon, PA
1/22/1992 – 11/4/1998: St. Anne, Rostraver, Pa.
11/4/1998: Retired
Summary: In August 1962, A New York Monsignor wrote Bishop William Connare regarding an incident where Rogers allegedly attempted to sexually assault a boy while he was hitch-hiking near Saranac Lake. The police determined that the vehicle involved in the incident was traced back to Rodgers. Two additional witnesses were willing to testify to seeing the boy with Rogers.
The monsignor said, “knowing that a priest might be involved, the police did not wish to follow their usual procedures.” The boy’s father, who described himself as a “good Catholic” agreed not to pursue charges so long as there was an admission of guilt bu Rodgers and he left down.
Connare expressed concern about Rogers returning to the Saranac Lake area, but, ultimately driven by a perceived need to “proceed cautiously to protect (Rogers’) reputation, no further action was taken.
Father Leonard Sanesi
6/16/1953 – 6/21/1955: St. Rita, Connellsville, PA
6/22/1955 – 7/7/1958: St. Cajetan, Monesson, PA
7/8/1958 – 1/15/1962: Immaculate Conception, Irwin, PA
1/16/1962 – 6/12/1966: St. Joseph Minor Seminary, Greensburg, PA
6/13/1966 – 5/28/1974: Holy Family, West Newton, PA
5/29/1974 – 8/22/1983: Immaculate Conception, Irwin, PA
8/23/1983 – 6/17/1990: Mount St. Peter, New Kensington, PA
6/18/1990 – 1/10/1992: All Saints, Arnold, PA
Summary: In 2002, a victim wrote a letter to the diocese that when Sanesi served St. Joseph Minor Seminary school in the early 1960s, Sanesi repeatedly sexually abused him. The victim suffered from psoriasis, and Sanesi suggested that the victim would be more comfortable in his private quarters. Sanesi helped apply his lotions, but Sanesi’s contact continued to fondling the victim’s genitals. It was a “nightly occurance,” according to the report. Bishop Anthony Bosco wrote the victim and apologized for Sanesi’s abuse, but no response was received. The victim’s complaint was forwarded to the Westmoreland County District Attorney’s Office, but because Sanesi had been deceased for a decade at the time the abuse was reported, no action was taken.
In 2013, a second victim said Sanesi sexually abused him at St. Joseph Hall beginning in 1962. The second victim alleged that Sanesi came into his dormitory room on two or three occasions and attempted to fondle his genitals and masturbate him.
Father Roger A. Sinclair
1974 – 1977: Immaculate Conception, Connellsville, PA
1977 – 1979: Holy Family, Latrobe, PA
1979 – 1980: St. Therese, Uniontown, PA
1980 – 1983: St. Mary, Kittanning, PA
1983 – 1984: Sick Leave
1984 – 2002: Released to the Archdiocese of Military SDuring several incidents ervices
3/7/2002: Facilities Revoked
4/12/2002: Removed from the Archdiocese of Military Services
Summary: In May 1981, two mothers wrote letters to Bishop Norbert Gaughan saying Sinclair abused their two sons when they were about 14 years old. In Sept. 1980, Sinclair visited the one victim’s father for a drink late one night. After the father went to bed, Sinclair proceeded to chase the victims around the room attempting to “shake hands” with them. Each time Sinclair shook hands with one of the boys, however, he pushed their hands towards their genitals.
In a May 1981 letter, one of the mothers reported the incident to Father Thomas Bertolina, but Bertolina failed to address the situation and “wanted to keep it all hush-hush and swept under the rug.
In March 1982, Gaughan stated in a letter that “a number of people were after us to see that Father Roger Sinclar was transferred.” According to Connare, Sinclair made it clear that he wanted to stay in his present assignment and to “work through his problems. Connare permitted Sinclair to remain at St. Mary at that time.
From June 1983 to June 1984, Sinclair was placed on sick leave and he received therapy for “emotional problems.” He applied for a chaplaincy with the Air Force, with Connare stating that Sinclair was a “priest in good standing.”
In November 1991, the Topeka State Hospital reported that Sinclair “managed to gain access ot a locked unit deceitfully” and attempted to check out teenage boys from the hospital to go see a movie on two separate occasions. He was dismissed from the hospital.
A third victim came forward and made a complaint in February 2002. During several incidents in the late 1970s, Sinclair would often ticle the boy, but did not sexually abuse him at that time. During an overnight stay for a convention in 1978 or 1979, Sinclair reportedly slept in the same bed as the victim with only his underwear on. Sinclair kept trying to get closer to him during the night. On the second night, Sinclair did not wear any clothing to bed.
In 2002, a fourth victim reported via telephone call that he was sexually abused by Sinclair in 1979. According to diocesan files, the event happened in the sacristy of the church after serving mass. It was interrupted by an older couple that walked into the sacristy.
Reverend Joseph L. Sredzinski
1970-1972: St. Margaret Mary, Lower Burrell PA
1972-1974: Holy Rosary, Republic, PA
1974-1979: St. Mary Czestochowa, New Kensington, PA
1979-1984: St. Peter, Brownsville, PA
06/05/1984-06/05/1989: St. Stanislaus, Calumet, PA
09/1989-12/1989: Theological Studies, North American College, Rome
06/05/1989-1999: St. Joseph, Everson, PA
06/18/1999-07/05/2007: St. Hubert, Point Marion, PA
7/05/2007-04/01/2009: St. Emma’ s Monastery, Greensburg, PA
7/05/2007-04/24/2009: SCI Greensburg, Greensburg, PA
7/05/2007-8/18/2010: Chaplain, Westmoreland Manor Nursing Home, Greensburg, PA
8/18/2010-/2014: Sacred Heart Church, Jeannette, PA
Summary: In May 1991, a meeting was held between Father Roger Statnick and Everson Mayor Tim Shoemaker after a local police offer discovered Sredzinski parked in a cemetery at night with a young boy. When questioned by the officer, Sredzinski said nothing was wrong and that he was merely talking to the boy about some problems.
Another witness told the diocese that she had seen Sredzinski alone in an alley with the young boy around 2 a.m.. The boy was identified as one of three boys Sredzinski was, according to the community, too-often seen with.
Later that month, Statnick confronted Sredinski with the information the mayor told him. Sredzinski told Statnick what he told the officer – nothing was wrong, and he was speaking to the boy about problems. He denied spending too much time with the boys in the community, that various kids came to the rectory at night because they felt comfortable there.
Statnick instructed Sredzinski that he was to have no further contact with young people outside of business hours.
Several handwritten notes in Sredzinski’s file indicate Sredzinski had “roaming hands” while he and a victim were simming, and had an erection while swimming. The victim, after telling his parents, told Sredzinski to stay away from their son.
Father John T. Sweeney
1970-1975: Holy Family, Latrobe, PA
1975-1980: Blessed Sacrament Cathedral, Greensburg, PA
1980-1982: St. Hedwig, Smock, PA
1982-1985: St. Mary, Freeport, PA
1985-1998: St. Margaret Mary, Lower Burrell, PA
1998-2008: St. James, Apollo, PA
2008-2016: Holy Family, West Newton, PA
12/31/2016: Retired
Summary: In 2016, Lower Burrell Police Department received an anonymous report of child abuse against Sweeney. The victim, who was 35 at the time of the report, said he was 10 years old when the first assault started. He stated that while in fourth grade at St. Margaret Mary, he had been sent to the principal because of Misbehavior. He was then sent to see Sweeney. Sweeney threatened the victim and told him he would not do so if the victim performed oral sex on him, which he did.
Sweeney is presently awaiting trial in the Westmoreland County Court of Common Pleas.
Reverend Joseph Anthony Tamikowski
6/1954-7/1956: Transfiguration, Mt. Pleasant, PA
7/1956-2/1959: St Mary, New Kensington, PA
2/1959-12/1960: St. Hyacinth, Monessen, PA
12/1960-6/1967: Assumption in Leechburg, and the Mission of St. Mary Church, Schenley, PA
6/1967-11/1971: Holy Spirit, Fayette City, PA
12//1971 -Unknown: St. Barbara, Harrison City, PA
8/1977-5/1984: St. Hyacinth, Monessen, PA
5/1984-4/1994: St. Joseph, Uniontown, PA
4/1994: Retired
Summary: In April 2002, a victim came forward and said while an altar boy at Assumption in Leechburg, he was inappropriately touched by Tamilowski
The victim reported that on a few occasions, Tamilowski pushed him in the corner and grabbed him in the crotch area. Tamilowski reportedly said even if he told his parents what he had done, they would not believe him.
“Many years” prior to making the report, the victim told the office manager for the diocese. The victim was told to leave the issue alone and not “rock the boat” any further.
Father Roger J. Trott
1970 – 1975: Blessed Sacrament Cathedral, Greensburg, PA
1975 – 1982: Holy Trinity, Ligonier, PA
1982 -1985: St. Matthew, Saltsburg, PA
1985 – 1987: St. John the Baptist de la Salle, Delmont, PA
1987: Leave of Absence
Summary: In 1987, the families of 12 altar boys alleged Trott committed sexual acts on them. An investigation was conducted and Trott confessed in a written statement that he invited the boys on “outings” and acknowledged his sexual motive in these invitations. Court records said Trott fondled and masturbated at least four of his victims, and massaged and performed oral sex on an additional eight.
On Feb. 26, 1987, Troutt, pled guilty to one count of corruption of minors and was sentenced to five years probation. Following his plea, he was sent to the St. Luke’s Institute in Suitland, Md. For inpatient treatment.
Father Charles Weber, OSB
Full assignment history not available
Summary: In 2015, a victim claimed that in the early 1980s, Weber gave a lecture to children about the meaning of impure thoughts. The victim, who was between 11 and 13 at the time, was alone with Weber and asked if he was aware what the lecture meant. At this point, Weber began to fondle the boy’s genitals.
The diocese encouraged the victim to contact ChildLine, and did so, but because the perpetrator was deceased, they would not be able to conduct a full investigation.
Diocese of Harrisburg
More: Pa. grand jury report: Details of how Harrisburg bishops ‘enabled the offenders’
Francis J. Allen
Where he served:
1974-1978 : St. Patrick, York, PA
Summary: In 1989, the Diocese of Harrisburg learned that a boy alleged that Francis “Scotty” Allen sexually abused him in the 1970’s. The Diocese documented the allegation. The Diocese’s documents revealed the following information.
The boy’s mother reported that the alleged abuse to a Monsignor. The boy said Allen had “sexual encounters” with him on three occasions.
In 1994, a woman reported to the Diocese that her son was molested by Allen from 1974 to 1975. During an overnight stay, Allen began to massage the boy and fondle the boy’s genitals until the boy ejaculated.
John G. Allen
Where he served:
5/29/1970-9/01/1971: Assumption Blessed Virgin Mary, Lebanon, PA
9/01/1971-5/06/1976: St. Patrick,Harrisburg, PA
5/06/1976-8/12/1976: St. Francis Xavier, Gettysburg, PA
8/12/1976-4/21/1978: St. Francis of Assisi, Harrisburg, PA
4/21/1978-5/05/1980: St. Ann, Steelton, PA
5/05/1980-6/20/1986: St. Pius X, Selingsgrove, PA
6/20/1986-11/01/1992: St. Joseph, Lancaster, PA
4/29/1991-5/01/1991: The Anodos Center at St. John Vianney
11/01/1992-7/06/1993: Leave of absence
7/06/1993-6/28/1995: St. Theresa, New Cumberland, PA
6/28/1995-4/05/2002: St. Margaret Mary, Harrisburg, PA
4/05/2002: Resigned
2/17/2006: Dispensed
Summary: The Diocese was concerned with Allen’s behavior as early as 1970, and in 1991 he was evaluated.
He was arrested by Lancaster City Police for soliciting an undercover officer. He allegedly attended a Sex and Love Addicts Anonymous meeting where Allen gave the impression to members that he was a pedophile and had an “obsession with young boys.”
In 2002, a man reported Allen had abused him from the ages of 14 to 18. Abuse included fondling, oral sex and mutual masturbation. The Diocese issued a penal precept suspending Allen’s ability to function publicly as a priest.
More abuse was reported in 2003 when another man came forward. He said Allen sat with him and others in a circle naked where they all masturbated. Allen paid the victims either $40 or $50 each. The man stated anytime Allen abused him, he paid him money.
Francis A. Bach
Where he served:
6/01/1962-6/30/1964: St. Theresa, New Cumberland, PA
6/30/1964-5/28/1965 : St. Patrick, York, PA
5/28/1965-5/29/1970 : St. Patrick Cathedral, Harisburg, PA
1/06/1967 : Relieved of duties, Young Adult Ministry, Harisburg, PA
5/29/1970-6/24/1970 : St. Joseph, Danvile, PA
6/24/1970 : Appointed Area Scout Chaplain, Columbia-Montour area
8/27/1970: Coordinator, Family Life Apostolate
10/04/1971: Campus Minister, Millersvile University, Lancaster, PA
9/03/1974 : St. Joan of Arc, Hershey, PA
4/15/1975 : Inappropriate behavior with adult at seminary
5/14/1975-4/12/1976: St. Rose of Lima, York, PA
4/14/1976 : Leave of Absence
10/19/76-8/01/197: Anunciation Blesed Virgin Mary, McSherystown, PA
8/01/7-12/01/1980: Holy Family, Harrisburg, PA
12/01/80-4/21/1983: Assumption Blesed Virgin Mary, Lebanon, PA
4/2/91: Appointed Dean, Lebanon, PA
5/09/94: Resigned; early retirement
Summary: In 1969, when a man was 13 years old, he said Bach invited him on a boat. The man and Bach went to sleep in separate beds, but the man woke up to Bach stroking his penis. The abuse also included kissing and oral sex. Bach also took pictures of the naked boy.
Other incidents of a similar nature followed involving at least three other males.
Jesus Barajas
Where he served:
3/1987-11/1989: Office of the Vicar for Spanish-speaking people York, Lebanon, and Bendersville
11/1989: Columbia, South America
Summary: A priest reported that he had become aware of several incidents involving Barajas that involved allegations of him molesting children. The Archdiocese stated in a letter back in 1995 that concerns were raised about Father Jesus, but nothing specific was presented.
Richard J. Barry
Where he served:
9/02/1981-7/1983: St. Joseph, Dallastown, PA
1983 Reassigned by his community
9/01/1984-9/02/1986: St. Margaret Mary, Harrisburg, PA
9/02/1986: Recalled by religious community
1991: Leave of Absence
Summary: In 2001, a woman reported that Barry had molested her son from 1978 to 1980 when he was in elementary school. A report involving Barry said there were some “strange situations” with him.
In another instance, a male reported that when he was 11 years old, Barry and him slept in a bed together. The boy woke up to Barry fondling him and then performing oral sex on him. He was reassured by Barry that “it was OK.”
On of the boys abused, later developed problems with alcohol and drug abuse and later committed suicide.
James Beeman
Where he served:
6/0419/53-5/29/1958: St. Mary Church, Lancaster, PA
5/29/1958-8/20/1959: St. Patrick, Carlisle, PA
8/20/1959-6/02/1961: St. Joseph, Danville, PA
6/02/1961-6/30/1964: St. Columbia’s, Bloomsburg, PA
6/30/1964-7/10/1968: Our Lady of Visitation, Shippensburg, PA
7/10/1968-9/15/1968: St.Joseph, Milton, PA
9/15/1968-1/13/1968: St. Ignatius, Centralia, PA
1/13/1968-10/10/1969: St. Francis of Assisi, Harrisburg, PA
10/10/1969-1/20/1973: Our Lady of Blessed Sacrament, Harrisburg, PA
1/20/1973-3/19/1973: St. Columbia, Bloomsburg,PA
3/19/1973-2/19/1975: Inner-city ministry,
2/19/1975-3/26/1975: Sacred Heart, Williamstown, PA
3/26/1975-4/21/197: Inner-city ministry
4/21/197-4/25/1980: Our Lady of Blessed Sacrament, Harrisburg, PA
4/25/1980-7/01/1980: Inner-city ministry
7/01/1980-12/02/191: Chaplain, Harrisburg State Hospital
1/2/1981-7/07/1983: Our Lady of Blessed Sacrament, Harrisburg, PA
7/07/1983-12/02/1991: Chaplain, State Correctional Institution, Camp Hill, PA
Summary: A woman reported that Beeman sexually abused her daughter from 1961 to 1964. When the daughter was eight years old, the mother found blood in her daughter’s underwear. On separate occasions, Beeman sexually abused her.
In catechism class, he sat her on his lap and touched her inappropriately. Beeman later raped her when she was in the hospital room recovering from having her tonsils removed. He later raped her when she was pregnant at 19 years old.
Beeman admitted the abuse he did to this victim, and other women also came forward describing instances of abuse by him.
John Bostwick
Where he served:
1976-1990: St. Catherine Laboure, Harrisburg, PA (weekends, holidays and summer)
12/05/1990-10/23/1991: St. Leo the Great, Lancaster, PA
10/23/1991-2/17/1992: Assumption Blessed Virgin Mary, Lebanon, PA
2/17/1992: Transferred to Lafayette, Louisiana
Summary: In March 1996, Father Paul Helwig and Monsignor Hugh Overbaugh wrote a memorandum to Bishop Nicholas Dattilo regarding an accusation made against Bostwick concerning the 1980 to 1982 time period. Bostwick befriended a family and eventually stayed overnight at their house. The family had a boy between 12 and 14 years of age. The boy drank beer with Bostwick and Bostwick fondled the boy’s genitals. Bostwick took the boy to St. Mary’s Seminary when school was out of session. Bostwick fondled the boy’s genitals while the boy was sleeping overnight. The last incident involved Bostwick attempting to have the boy touch Bostwick’ s genitals.
In 2002, another victim made the same report to the Diocese of Harrisburg regarding an attempt at inappropriate touching that occurred in 1987 when he was between 14 and 15 years old. He stated he passed out from drinking alcohol while he watched a movie with Bostwick. He woke up in another room when Bostwick reached for his genitals and he stopped Bostwick from making contact.
Donald Cramer
Where he served:
6/2001-6/2004: Good Shepherd, Camp Hill, PA
6/2004-6/2005: St. John the Baptist, New Freedom, PA
6/2005-2/2006: Leave of Absence
6/2006-6/2010: Christ the King Mission & Bloomsburg University
6/2010-8/2012: St. Monica
8/2012: Leave of absence
11/2014: Dispensed
Summary: An investigation revealed that Cramer was in an online chatroom where he communicated with an individual in Connecticut who was charged criminally for possessing child pornography. In his online communications, Cramer mentioned he wanted to go to Mexico where he could “rent” boys. After an investigation, Cramer was not arrested because he was not in possession of child pornography.
Walter Emala
Where he served:
1981-1985: Part-time (functioned without faculties); St. Peter, Mount Carmel, PA
1981-1985: St. John, New Freedom, PA
Summary: In May 1979, the Diocese of Memphis wrote to the Diocese of Harrisburg and stated that Father Walter Emala was “once accused of sexually handling some of the children where he was an associate, but this does not seem to have been proven definitely.”
In December 1985, a memorandum was written by Keeler that reported that Emala had been “accused of being overly and overtly familiar with certain boys” by parents in St. Peter’s parish. The memorandum noted the parents made reports to the parish priest, Father Frederick Farace. There was no abuse reported. The parents stated Emala gave boys wine and the parents were concerned about over familiarity.
Paul R. Fisher
Where he served:
1995-1997: St. Norbert, Paoli, PA
1997-1998: Archmere Academy, Claymont, Delaware
6/16/1998-6/19/2003: Queen of Peace, Millersburg, PA
6/2003: Incardinated as a Priest of the Diocese of Harrisburg
6/19/2003-6/18/2009: Sacred Heart of Jesus, Cornwall, PA
6/18/2009-6/20/2011: St. Columbia, Bloomsburg, PA
6/20/2011-6/20/2016: Our Lady of the Blessed Sacrament, Harrisburg, PA
Summary: On February 18, 2011, Bishop Joseph McFadden issued a Decree after receiving a report from the Secretary of Clergy and Consecrated Life that Father Paul Fisher made a selfincriminating report involving pornography, “which may include child pornography.”
In February 2011, Diocesan officials interviewed Fisher. Fisher stated that he conducted online searches for pornography that included “incest” and “really sick, abusive stories.”
The Diocese sent Fisher for treatment and evaluation. The forensic examination of Fisher’s electronic devices did not identify images depicting the sexual abuse of children, even though Fisher admitted it was possible.
Harrisburg Priest #1
Further details were not released.
Augustine Giella
Further details were not released.
Harrisburg Priest #2
His assignment history was not listed.
Summary: A Grand Jury subpoena was served on the Diocese of Harrisburg in September of 2016. While reviewing documents to turn over pursuant to the subpoena, the Diocese identified an allegation against a priest, which the Diocese did not follow up on.
Donald “Tim” Hackman
Where he served:
1983-1999: St. James, Lititz, PA
Summary: The Diocese of Harrisburg’s restricted file for Deacon Donald “Tim” Hackman contained a resignation letter dated January 22, 1999, and a Decree dated February 3, 1999. Hackman had mailed child pornography to an undercover law enforcement officer. Bishop Dattilo issued a Decree, which noted Hackman’s “sincere and credible display of remorse.” He was then forbidden to exercise functions of any ecclesiastical office.
T. Ronald Haney
Where he served:
5/20/1958-6/02/1961: St. Anne, Lancaster, PA
6/02/1961-8/01/1961: St. Peter, Columbia, PA
8/01/1961-12/14/1961: Assumption BVM, Lancaster, PA (canonical reasons)
12/14/1961-9/12/1963: St. Peter, Columbia, PA (canonical reasons)
9/12/1963-6/30/1964: Sacred Heart, Lancaster, PA (canonical reasons)
6/30/1964-1/12/1967: St. James and Bishop McDevitt High School
6/12/1967-6/02/1967: St. Ann, Steelton, PA (canonical reasons)
6/02/1967-6/02/1970: St. Edward, Shamokin, PA
6/02/1967-1/22/1976: Our Lady of Lourdes Regional High School, St. Edward; St. Anthony of Padua, Shamokin, PA
1/22/1976-6/18/1981: Holy Spirit, Palmyra, PA
6/18/1981-6/28/1985: St. Ann, Steelton, PA
2/28/1985-7/31/1992: St. Catherine, Harrisburg, PA
7/31/1992-3/03/2006: St. Theresa, New Cumberland, PA (canonical only)
3/03/2006: Retired
Summary: Father T. Ronald Haney entered the priest seminary at age 14. He attended the seminary until being ordained a priest in the Diocese of Harrisburg in 1958. Diocesan officials wrote memorandums wherein officials noted that in 1995 a husband and wife informed the Diocese that Father Haney was a family friend who frequented their household for dinner. The family had a seven year old daughter and a four year old son. One evening, the parents’ heard Haney say to their daughter, “I guess you have heard about pedaphilia [sic].” He repeated the sentence a second time after the daughter’s mother overheard and called his name. The daughter’s mother also reported that another female parishioner confided in her that Haney commented that her daughter had a “cute firm ass.”
He put his hand on the daughters’ buttocks and said “she has a nice tight ass.” The woman stated, after speaking with her husband, they felt this was an “error in judgment” by Haney.
John Herber
7/10/1980-7/29/1982 St. Joseph Convent & School, Columbia, PA
8/01/1995-2/18/1998 St. Ann Home, Columbia, PA
Summary: A woman called the diocese in 1997 and reported Herber abused her when she was 7 years old, between 1981 and 1982. A statement from the Superior of the Precious Blood Order in 1995 said “I am of the opinion that Father Herber is of good character and reputation.” In 2012, a woman reported she was molested by Herber, and since the woman’s sister has also alleged Herber abused her. The woman was four years old, and alleged Herber digitally penetrated her.
Philip Hower
1981: Seminarian at Pontifical College, Josephinum
Summary: Hower’s sister wrote the diocese reporting that he molested her son while the son was between five and seven years old. She alleged Hower performed oral sex on her son.
Kevin Kayda
6/01/2013-10/03/2013 St. John the Baptist, New Freedom, PA
Summary: A parent reported that Kayda was having inappropriate online communications with their minor daughter on Facebook. Forensic analysis of his computer showed Kayda had pornographic material that included “adolescents.” Kayda committed suicide in 2013. He alluded to being an abuse victim himself, but did not disclose the name of his alleged abuser.
Edward Konat
5/28/1987-10/08/1987: Asst. Pastor St. Theresa, New Cumberland, PA
Summary: While Konat was at the Diocese of Salt Lake, he was accused of pedophilia, and was accused at least four times of sexual advances towards young boys. Konat also conducted “scrotum” checks of minor boys.
George Koychick
Where served:
4/22/1949-9/23/1949: Annunciation Blessed Virgin Mary, McSherrystown, PA
9/23/1949-5/23/1952: St. Francis of Assisi, Harrisburg, PA
5/23/1952-6/04/1953: Our Lady of Mt. Carmel, Mount Carmel, PA
6/04/1953-5/23/1957: St. Joseph, York, PA
5/23/1957-11/08/1957: Assumption Blessed Virgin Mary, Lebanon, PA
11/08/1957-10/02/1962: Chaplain, Penna. Industrial School
10/02/1962-11/24/1967: Sacred Heart, Williamstown, PA
11/24/1967-6/18/1981: St. Patrick, York, PA
6/18/1981-6/04/1997: Church of the Holy Spirit, Palmyra, PA
1997: Retired
Summary: Koychick has multiple allegations including…
A woman stated in the 1970s, when she was 13 or 14, he touched her sensually, and reported that Koychick rubbed multiple girls. Koychick was asked if there was any truth to the allegation and he responded, “Yes, it was when I was going through a touchy/feely time in my life.”
In 2013, a woman reported she was abused between the ages of 12 and 15, between 1976 and 1979. Koychick reportedly touched her breasts over the top of her clothing.
In 2016, another victim came forward saying Koychick touched her breasts and sunbathed nude.
Thomas Kujovsky
5/23/1957-6/01/1962: St. Casimir, Kulpmont, PA
6/01/1962-8/09/1963: St. Joseph, York, PA
8/09/1963-5/29/1964: St. Catherine, Oakleigh, PA
5/29/1964-6/22/1972: Mt. Carmel Elementary School, Mt. Carmel, PA
9/23/1966-2/03/1967: Our Lady of Mercy, Roaring Creek, PA
2/03/1967-12/15/1969: St. Joseph, Locust Dale, PA
12/15/1969-6/22/1972: St. John the Baptist, Mt. Carmel, PA
6/22/1972-6/02/1983: Immaculate Conception Blessed Virgin Mary, Berwick, PA
6/02/1983-8/26/1986: St. Columbia, Bloomsburg, PA
8/26/1986-6/09/1989: Corpus Christi, Chambersburg, PA
6/09/1989-11/11/1990: St. Anne, Lancaster, PA
11/11/1990: Villa Vianney
12/15/1990: Retired
8/26/1994: Administrator Pro Tem, Villa Vianney
6/28/1995: Secretary to the Lebanon Tribunal
4/27/1999: Administrator Pro Tem at St. Peter, Elizabethtown, PA
1/01/2003: Retired
Summary: In 1981, two women reported that a person found magazines that contained photographs of former altar boys in the nude. The items were found by his bed in the rectory. Kujovsky expressed “utter surprise and absolute disbelief concerning them” and denied the allegations. The diocese identified one of the boys that was photographed naked, but there was no record that the child was ever interviewed.
Thomas Lawler
11/11/1955-5/24/1960: Sacred Heart, Lewistown; Youth Chaplain and Scout Chaplain, Juniata Valley Area, PA
5/24/1960-10/26/1960: St. Aloysius, Littlestown, PA
10/26/1960-12/14/1960: Good Shepherd, Camp Hill, PA
12/14/1960-6/02/1961: St. Vincent, Hanover, PA
6/02/1961-6/01/1962: St. Joseph, York, PA
6/01/1962-10/10/1969: Annunciation Blessed Virgin Mary, McSherrystown, Pa.
10/10/1969-9/01/1971: St. Peter, Columbia, PA
9/01/1971-10/19/1987: Sacred Heart of Jesus, Lewisburg, PA
Summary: A man made an allegation against Lawler in 1963 when the man was 10, saying Lawler hugged the boy, placed his hands inside of the back of the boys’s pants and squeexed the boy’s butt. Another man came forward in 2014, saying he was abused in 1985 and ended in 1987 when Lawler died. The boy was 13.
Robert Logue
Where served: unknown.
Summary: A 13-year-old boy and his father reported Logue showed interest in the boy, with Logue reportedly asking the boy to expose his genetalia in 1968.
Arthur Long
Further details were not released.
David H. Luck
Summer 1986: St. Paul the Apostle, Annville, PA (Deacon)
Spring 1987: St. Paul the Apostle, Annville, PA (Deacon)
6/19/1987-1/01/1989: St. Joseph, Mechanicsburg, PA
Summary: It was reported that Luck anally raped a 15 year old boy while having overnight stays at a family’s house. Luck told a redacted name during an investigation, “I am a pedophile.” Shortly after, Luck approached one of the victims at a parish festival.
Robert Maher
6/03/1937-6/09/1939: St. Rose of Lima, York, PA
6/09/1939-12/1939: St. Mary’s, Kulpmont, PA (left due to health)
1/06/1940-4/04/1941: St. Peter, Columbia, PA
4/1941: Chaplain to Boy Scouts
1/1946-10/1961: Superintendent of schools
4/04/1941-7/10/1946: St. Mary Assumption, Lebanon, PA
7/10/1946-5/24/1960: St. Peter, Columbia, PA
5/24/1960-12/14/1961: St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Harrisburg, PA
12/14/1961-8/1974: St. Vincent, Hanover, PA
4/23/1975: Resignation accepted; faculties not revoked; Villa Vianney Retirement home
1979 to 1986: Archivist for the Diocese of Harrisburg
Summary: A man made a report in 1994 that Maher kissed him, touched him in an “immodest” way and performed oral sex on him while in sixth or seventh grade. The man made multiple reports in 1997, 2002 and 2007.
Other accusations include…
A Secular Franciscan Brother reported to the diocese that Maher hugged, kissed him on the lips and “stuck his tongue” in the victim’s mouth.
A man reported to the diocese that Maher sexually abused him when he was a boy. He had to sit on Maher’s lap and he was kissed when he was nine years old.
During confession, a 10 year old boy said Maher asked him if he masterbated, got a “hard on” and how big his penis was.
A parishioner of St. Vincent wrote a letter saying that 15 boys were sexually abused by Maher while at the parish from 1961 to 1975.
Daniel Mahoney
9/23/1952-4/21/1954: St. Patrick, York, PA
4/21/1954-8/01/1956: St. Edward, Shamokin, PA
8/01/1956-6/02/1961: St. Joan of Arc, Hershey, PA
6/02/1961-6/30/1964: St. Joseph, Shamokin, PA
6/30/1964-5/31/1968: Immaculate Conception, Fairfield, PA
5/31/1968-6/13/2002: Holy Name of Jesus, Harrisburg, PA
6/13/2002: Retired
Summary: Mahoney’s file contained complaints regarding inappropriate publishing in the church bulletin and on his personal website. The website had links for puberty of boys and girls, and provided descriptions of growing up and sexuality. A catechist said her brother was sexually abused by Mahoney between 1966 and 1968. A different woman came forward in 2016 and said that her brother was also sexually abused.
Guy Marsico
6/01/1973-10/10/1977: Assumption Blessed Virgin Mary, Lebanon, PA
10/10/1977-4/29/1982: St. Leo the Great, Rohrerstown, PA
4/29/1982-8/01/1985: St. Rose of Lima, York, PA
8/01/1985-7/28/1994: St. Gregory the Great, Lebanon, PA
7/28/1994: Leave of Absence
2010: Requested laicization
Summary: A man came forward in 1994 and said he was sexually molested by Marsico while at St. Leo the Great. He gave the boy full body massages and touched the boy’s penis. The boy told his mother and father about the abuse, and neither told anyone. Marsico admitted to being sexually involved with three other minors while at the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary and St. Leo the Great. Another victim came forward in 1996, saying he was abused when he was between fifth and sixth grade. Marsico fondled the victim and slept naked in the same bed with him.
John M. McDevitt
1960s: Bishop McDevitt School
August 1982: Tranferred out of the diocese
Summary: A man reported that McDevitt abused him, kissing him in the confessional at Bishop McDevitt High School. The year of the abuse was unknown, but the reporting man was 50 years old in 2012.
Anthony McGinley
12/20/1945-8/25/1953: Annunciation Blessed Virgin Mary, McSherrystown, PA
8/25/1953-11/20/1953: Assumption Blessed Virgin Mary, Lebanon, PA
11/20/1953-10/11/1957: Our Lady of Mt. Carmel, Mt. Carmel, PA
10/11/1957-12/14/1961: St. Thomas More, Northumberland, PA
12/14/1961-4/30/1970: St. Patrick, Carlisle, forced to resign as pastor at in Carlisle and permitted to continue his education
4/30/1970-10/24/1972: Catholic University; Graduate School of Education for Guidance (Counseling)
1970’s-1982: Marymount College; forced to resign 1982
5/10/1972-9/01/1972: St. Joseph, Mechanicsburg, PA (part-time)
11/26/1987: Retired; faculties revoked
Summary: Three high school boys in 1953 reported that McGinley made “immoral advances” towards the boys, who after they were questioned by another priest said they “were so convinced of them, they would testify under oath.” The actions include giving the boys alcohol and trying to touch them. From 1953 to 1982, there were “may reports” that McGinley had sexual encounters with other males.
James McLucas
Summer 2014: Carmel of Jesus, Mary and Joseph Monastery, Elysburg
Summary: The head Mother of the Monastery called the diocese after finding out McLucas had sexually abused a 14-year-old girl, and continued a relationship with her into her adulthood.
Ibarra Mercado
July 1994 – Lebanon V.A. Hospital
Summary: The allegations involved Mercado “French kissing” a 12-year-old girl. The girl’s mother was an organist for masses that Mercado celebrated at the Lebanon VA Hospital.
Redacted – pending litigation
The name of the priest, where he served and the exact incident was entirely redacted in the grand jury report.
Joseph Pease
No information is listed.
Charles Procopio
5/25/1956-8/01/1956: St. Theresa’s Church, New Cumberland, PA
8/01/1956-4/09/1959: St. Joseph, Danville, PA
4/09/1959-12/14/1961: St. Anthony of Padua, Lancaster, PA
12/14/1961-10/02/1962: St. Andrew, Waynesboro, PA
10/02/1962-12/11/1964: St. Joan of Arc, Hershey, PA
12/11/1964-10/12/1967: Sacred Heart of Jesus, Harrisburg, PA
10/12/1967-5/31/1968: Assumption Blessed Virgin Mary, Lancaster, PA
5/31/1968-6/04/1971: St. Rita, Fairfield, PA
6/04/1971-8/10/1979: St. Peter, Mount Carmel, PA
8/10/1979-7/28/1983: Holy Name of Jesus, Harrisburg, PA
7/28/1983-5/30/1984: St. Joseph, Hanover, PA
5/30/1984-2/04/1991: Christ the King, Benton, PA
2/04/1991-1/11/1994: St. Casimir, Kulpmont, PA
1/11/1994-6/28/1995: Villa Vianney/Our Lady of Mt. Carmel
6/28/1995: Retired
Summary: In 1965, a priest received a phone call that Procopio molested girls in the seventh and eighth grades at Sacred Heart of Jesus in Harrisburg. The person who made the report told the principal, but nothing happened in response. The accusations include feeling girls breasts, and pressing one up against the wall in the rectory and touching her “in an immodest manner.” In response, an official called Procopio’s actions “manifestations of his effusive nature, imprudent but pure on his part.” He added that “the more recent actions received a distorted interpretation in the highly imaginative minds of pubescent girls.” The diocese allowed Procopio to stay in ministry.
Guido Miguel Quiroz Reyes
12/1975 – 1/1980: Hispanic Center, Lancaster
Summary: A family living in Florida, formerly of Lancaster, made sexual molestation allegations against Reyes. Reyes befriended the family and when the family moved to Florida, he lived with them. In 1993, the family confronted Reyes saying he sexually abused two daughters in the 1970s when they were minors while in Lancaster, and abused a granddaughter when he lived in Florida.
Reyes denied the allegations, and he left their home. In 1993, he the family did not take legal action against him.
James Rush
Prior to 2001: Archdiocese of New York
2002-2005: St. Richard, Manheim; Our Lady of Good Counsel, Marysville; St. Bernadette Mission, Duncannon, PA
11/2015: Retired
Summary: In 2016, a woman reported to Children and Youth Services and to the diocese that Rush developed an inappropriate relationship with a 14 year old girl, and refered to her as his girlfriend. Rush told the girl not to tell her mother because her mother would et the wrong impression. When confronted by the diocese, Rush retired.
Redacted – pending litigation
The name of the priest, where he served and the exact incident was entirely redacted in the grand jury report.
Bryan Schlager
8/2009: Seminary applicant
12/2010: Withdrew from seminary
Summary: In February 2011, a 15-year-old boy reported that he had received inappropriate communications from Schlager during a Facebook chat. Schlager asked about masturbation and pornography. An investigation by the diocese reported that a minor had received inappropriate communications from Schlager, prior to enrolling in the seminary.
Herbert Shank
6/02/1967-6/04/1971: Sacred Heart, Lewistown, PA
6/04/1971-9/03/1974: Chaplain for Boy and Girl Scouts, Juniata Valley area
9/03/1974-5/14/1975: St. Joan of Arc, Hershey, PA
5/14/1975-1/01/1981: Sacred Heart, Lancaster, PA
1/01/1981-4/09/1984: Holy Spirit Hospital, Camp Hill, PA
4/09/1984-5/30/1984: St. Patrick, Carlisle, PA
5/30/1984-11/21/1994: Immaculate Conception Blessed Virgin Mary, Fairfield, PA
11/21/1994: Leave of Absense
Summary: In 1994, a boy alleged Shank molested his brother, himself and five altar boys. One night at the rectory, Shank showed the boy a box full of half-naked photographs of other boys his age. He recognized some of the boys as altar boys. In another incident, Shank gave massages to a victim, which led to overnight stays that included naked rubdowns, kissing and Shank photographed the victim. The victim was under 16. In 1998, Shank wrote him an apology letter.
The diocese notified the District Attorney’s office and the diocese turned over photographic negatives and videotape cassettes that included several victims.
Patrick Shannon
1993-2005: Sacred Heart and of St. George’s Mission, Mifflinburg
Summary: The diocese received a letter in 2005 from an individual saying Shannon sexually abused him while at Camp Brisson in Maryland as a counselor in training. While on an overnight camping trimp, Shannon shared his blanket with the victim, and once under the blanket, Shannon fondeled the victim’s genitals underneath his clothing. When the victim told Shannon no, Shannon responded “sometime…. We say no when we really mean yes.”
Timothy Sperber
4/18/1978-4/21/1983: St. Joan of Arc, Hershey, PA
4/21/1983-12/1/1992: St. Philip, Millersville, PA
12/1992: Transfer to Florida
12/01/1992-2/15/1996: St. Gregory, Plantation, Florida
2/15/1996-9/01/1998: St. Boniface Church, Pembrooke Pines, Florida
9/01/1998: Leave of Absence
10/10/2000: Suspended for failing to appear for assignment
Summary: In 2004, the diocese received a report from a woman alleging sexual abuse around 1979 while she was between nine and ten years old at St. Joan of Arc in Hershey. Sperber was ordered to tutor her in math, and during one session, had the girl remove her shirt and had her turn around. He touched her bare back with thins she believed to be his finger and penis, and believed he ejaculated on her back. When the victim told a principal at the school, the principal scolded her saying, “How dare you make these terrible accusations. You are a demon-child.”
Carl J. Steffen
Where served:
6/29/1958-4/09/1959: Assumption Blessed Virgin Mary, Lancaster, PA
5/24/1960: Assistant Director of Youth for Boy Scouts
4/09/1959-6/02/1961: St. Gertrude, Lebanon, PA
6/02/1961-8/09/1963: St. Joan of Arc, Hershey, PA
8/09/1963-6/02/1967: Bishop McDevitt High School, Harrisburg, PA
8/09/1963-6/18/1969: St. Joseph, Shamokin, PA
6/02/1967: Local Director, Shamokin Office Catholic Charities
7/01/1969: Chaplain to the Newman Apostolate for Gettysburg College
1969: “Temporary leave for retreat work,” Gettysburg for weekends
6/18/1969-5/06/1976: St. Francis Xavier, Gettysburg, PA
1/13/1972: Permission reaffirmed for Retreat Apostola
4/18/1978-2005 (retired): St. Ignatius Loyola, Buchanan Valley
Summary: The diocese learned of allegations against Steffen in 1966, when he was a chaplain of a local high school. Bishop Joseph Daley had been briefed. The report said that “several complaints from reputable parents” talked about “questionable procedures during interviews of high school boys” and he “was alleged to fondle, caress and touch them.” During an interview with another priest, Steffen said he sometimes sat the boys on a couch and gave them a “gesture of friendliness.”
Other accusations include…
A female student reported that Steffen spoke to her about masturbation, intercourse and “certain aberrations of the marital act.”
In 1993, a victim stated Steffen asked him about the size of his penis.
In 1997, a deacon reported that a family left the parish because Steffen asked their three sons about sex.
Frederick Vaughn
7/30/1958-8/09/1963: St. Catherine Laboure, Harrisburg, PA
8/09/1963-9/10/1965: St. Joseph, York, PA
9/10/1965-1/08/1971: St. Peter, Elizabethtown, PA
1/08/1971-8/26/1986: St. Mark the Evangelist, Greencastle
1986: Retired
Summary: The diocese received the following accusations from different parties about Vaughn…
April 2002 – A woman said that Vaughn molested both of her daughters from about 1961 to about 1966. The abuse started when the children were about nine years old.
July 2002 – The diocese received another letter from different parents alleging one of their daughters was sexually abused from age three to age 13 between 1961 and 1974. The abuse consisted of vaginal and anal intercourse. A second daughter was abused from age five to 10 between 1958 and 1963.
July 2004: The diocese received a call from a woman who said Vaughn abused her around 1958, when she was 11 or 12 years old and a grade school student at St. Catherine Laboure. He allegedly pressed himself up against her body and fondled her from behind.
August 2004: A parent reported that Vaughn abused her daughter while at St. Catherine Laboure. The mother walked into a room and saw Vaughn with both his hands on her minor daughter’s breasts. Vaughn calmly left the home. The mother never told her husband, nor officials of the incident.
May 2012: A letter to St. Catherine Laboure said Vaughn molested a female from 1959 to 1963
Salvatore V. Zangari
6/09/1944-3/22/1946: St. Patrick, York, PA
3/22/1946-6/20/1951: St. Peter, Mt. Carmel, PA
6/20/1951-11/08/1957: United States Army Chaplain; Industrial School in Camp Hill
11/08/1957-8/20/1959: Assumption Blessed Virgin Mary, Lebanon, PA
8/20/1959-6/30/1964: Our Lady of Visitation, Shippensburg, PA
6/30/1964-10/10/1969: St. Thomas More, Northumberland, PA
10/10/1969-10/10/1973: St. Ann, Steelton, PA
10/10/1973-12/12/1975: Immaculate Conception Blessed Virgin Mary, Fairfield, PA
12/12/1975-6/12/1986: Moderator, Council of Catholic Women; Permanent Diaconate Program; St. Peter and Chaplain at Elizabethtown, PA
6/12/1986: Retired
Summary: Multiple allegations of unwanted sexual misconduct between Zangari and adult women were reported to the diocese in 1980 and 1986. The diocese sent Zangari to St. Luke Institute for evaluation. An official from the institute wrote Bishop William keeler that Zangari said he was “literally married” for eight or nine years and had fathered a child.
In 2002, officials from the diocese met Zangari to ask about the revelations because “it had appeared they had never been followed up on.” Zangari denied being married, but admitted to fathering a child with a former student. Zangari said the student was “maybe 18 years old” and had been a student at St. Mary (Assumption Blessed Virgin Mary).”
Diocese of Pittsburgh
Redacted – pending litigation
The name of the priest, where he served and the exact incident was entirely redacted in the grand jury report.
James R. Adams
5/1963-2/1966: St. Francis Xavier, Pittsburgh, PA
2/1966-8/1966: St. Peter, McKeesport, PA
8/1966-5/1972: St. Raphael, Morningside, PA
5/1972-10/1977: St. Francis of Assisi, Finleyville, PA
10/1977-9/1979: Resurrection, West Mifflin, PA
9/1979-10/1992 St. Isaac Jogues, Elrama, PA
6/17/85-11/19/85: Leave of Absence
10/4/1992-3/31/93: Leave of Absence
3/31/1993-3/1/2003: Leave of Absence
3/1/2003: Withdrew/Dismissed from Ministry
Summary: On July 24, 1992, a young man accused Father James R. Adams of sexually assaulting him in the 1970’s when the victim was between 8 and 12 years old and a member of St. Francis of Assisi. The victim said that Adams had touched his genitals while the victim was fully clothed on at least two occasions. Both times Adams was driving the victim and other boys to outtings.
In light of the allegation, Adams’ ministerial faculties were withdrawn and he was sent to St. Michael’s Community in St. Louis, Missouri for evaluation and treatment. Adams left before completing the program. In January 2003, his faculties were withdrawn and he was permanently removed from ecclesiastical ministry, referencing the publication of Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People.
James L. Armstrong
10/13/1977 – 7/07/1982: St. Elizabeth of Hungary, Pittsburgh, PA
7/08/1982 – 6/02/1985: St. Francis Xavier, Pittsburgh, PA
6/03/1985 – 6/21/1989: Resurrection, West Mifflin, PA
6/21/1989 – 2/20/1990: St. Ursula, Allison Park, PA
7/23/1990 – 6/27/1991: Holy Sepulcher, Butler, PA
6/27/1991 – 12/27/1991: Leave of Absence
10/24/1992 – 8/02/1999: St. Paul, Butler, PA
8/02/1999 – 7/23/2007: Newman Center, Slippery Rock, PA
8/02/1999 – 7/23/2007: St. Peter, Slippery Rock, PA
7/24/2007: Administrative Leave
Summary: A file was opened on Father James Armstrong on February 16, 1990, that alleged Armstrong gave homeless boys from the Pittsburgh drugs, alcohol and money in exchange for sex. In May 1991, Armstrong was sent to St. Luke Institute in Maryland for evaluation. Residential treatment was recommended and the Diocese placed Armstrong on administrative leave.
A confidential memorandum indicated that a victim contacted the Diocese on September 30, 2009 and requested counseling. He reported that he had been abused by several priests in the course of his life, including a priest whom he knew as “Father Tom.”
The male stated that his father was a heroin addict and his mother was a prostitute. He eventually ran away from home and became a “street kid.” The male’s therapist advised that the incidents involved “sex for pay” and occurred when the male was 14 to 15 years old.
The victim indicated that he was introduced to Armstrong when he was 16 years old in the winter of 1985-86. According to the victim, Armstrong would drive him [the victim] and a “hustler” far out Route 28 to Route 8, the Red Belt, toward Shaler Township up a winding road, always late night around 11:00 PM to midnight. The victim wrote that Father Tom had them do various violent sex acts like calling him degrading things while he gave them oral sex. They beat his body, slapped his face and spanked him.
Armstrong received treatment between his 2007 administrative leave and 2011.
John M. Bauer
5/22/1973-10/02/1978: Parochial Vicar, St. Joan of Arc, South Hills, PA
10/02/1978-1/17/1988: Parochial Vicar, Immaculate Conception, Washington, PA
6/17/1988-6/27/1994: Pastor, Immaculate Conception, Washington, PA
6/27/1994-2/18/1998: Pastor, Good Samaritan, Ambridge, PA
2/18/1998-1/20/1999: Leave of Absence
1/20/1999-6/04/2006: Administrator, Our Lady of Consolation, Carmichaels, PA
1/20/1999 -present: Pastor, St. Hugh, Carmichaels, PA
6/04/2006 -present: Pastor, Our Lady of Consolation, Carmichaels, PA
Summary: An allegation of sexual abuse by Father John Bauer first surfaced when it was included in another complaint that was lodged against Father Michael Romero. A male said that Romero and Bauer would provide him alcohol and encourage him to drink it. He stated that he has suffered with alcoholism for years while he was trying to suppress the memories of sexual abuse as a minor child. He stated that he attributes the majority of his problems with alcohol to his early exposure to alcohol by Romero and Bauer.
The victim reported that Bauer would “wrestle” with him but maintained that there was no genital contact. He found this to be strange that Bauer would want to wrestle with all the boys since he was not a wrestling coach or was not really involved in the wrestling program.
In a memorandum to the file dated October 17, 2013, Bauer stated that he recalled the victim and that he remembered him as one of the young boys who would work out in the “wrestling room.” Bauer said he remembered wrestling with some of the boys on occasion in the “wrestling room.” Bauer stated he would often “join them” since he enjoyed doing a good workout.
Bauer denied providing alcohol to any minors.
John E. Brueckner
2/20/1940 – 9/6/1944: Immaculate Conception, Pittsburgh, PA
9/7/1944 – 9/11/1947: St. Joseph, New Kensington, PA
9/11/1947 – 4/6/1949: St. Mary and New Castle Hospital, New Castle, PA
4/7/1949 – 11/7/1951: St. Mary, Beaver Falls, PA
11/ 8/1951 – 6/13/1956: St. Lawrence, Pittsburgh, PA
6/14/1956 – 5/27/1959: Annunciation, North Side, PA
5/23/1959 – 10/2/1960: St. Luke, Carnegie, PA
Summary: According to a 2016 document, a woman had contacted the Diocese of Greensburg to report that her husband suffered abuse at the hand of a Catholic priest when he was only a child. She stated that in 2002 her husband informed her that he had been abused by a priest from St. Joseph sometime between the years of 1947 and 1951. He stated that the abuse occurred in the priest’s car after they saw a baseball game together. She could not recall the name of the priest who abused her husband.
Brueknere was among the priests at St. Joseph during that time period when Greensburg was part of the Pittsburgh Diocese. It does not appear that the Diocese of Pittsburgh took any further action in connection with the allegation.
Leo Burchianti
5/27/1964-8/21/1966: St. Joseph, Natrona, PA
8/22/1966-6/09/1968: Immaculate Conception, Bloomfield, PA
6/10/1968-5/21/1973: Our Lady of Grace, Scott Township, PA
5/22/1973-1/24/1979: St. James, Sewickley, PA
1/25/1979-11/21/1980: St. Philip Neri, Donora, PA
11/22/1980-2/12/1981: Leave of Absence, health reasons
2/13/1981-12/03/1981: St. Rosalia, Greenfield, PA
12/04/1981-4/12/1993: St. Joseph, West Aliquippa, PA
4/12/1993-1/30/1995: Leave of Absence, health reasons/administrative
1/30/1995: Retired
1/31/2003: Withdrew from ministry
Summary: From approximately 1967 to 1993, Burchianti was alleged to have had inappropriate contact with at least eight young boys. These allegations included but were not limited to Burchianti: having anal or oral sex with them; inappropriately touching them; making suggestive comments to them; providing alcohol to them; allowing them to use drugs in the rectory; and inviting some to stay overnight to sleep in his bed with him.
On April 6, 1993, an unidenitified victim stated that from the ages of 13 to 14 (1976-77) to age 21 he had engaged in oral and anal sex with Burchianti. The male stated that the abuse with Burchianti occurred approximately 200-300 times while Burchianti was assigned to St. Philip’s in Donora and then approximately 20-30 times while Burchianti was at St. Joseph.
Burchianti admitted to having had a sexual relationship with him over the years, but disputed the number of times it occurred. on March 18, 1994, a signed settlement agreement for $15,000 was reached between the Diocese and the victim.
Robert Castelucci
5/27/1964-3/07/1965: St. Rosalia, Greenfield, PA
5/08/1965-5/21/1973: St. Joseph, Coraopolis, PA
5/08/1965-5/21/1973: St. Martha, Groveton, PA
5/22/1973-5/29/1974: St. Patrick, Canonsburg, PA
5/30/1974-6/29/1981: St. Mary of Mt. Carmel, Braddock, PA
6/30/1981-12/09/1994: St. Lawrence, Hillsville, PA
12/09/1994-7/27/1999: Leave of Absence
7/28/1999-3/25/2002: Administrative Leave
3/25/2002: Withdrew from active ministry
Summary: Despite having knowledge since 1994 of Castelucci’ s sexual abuse of children, the Diocese did not remove him from ministry, instead initially allowing him to take a leave of absence for personal reasons.
The first victim stated that Castelucci molested him at the St. Mary rectory and in Castelucci’ s car. The victim said the abuse occurred from age 13 or 14 until age 17 in the 1970’s. The victim alleged that sexual activity with Castelucci included masturbation, oral sex and one attempt at anal sex. He reported that Castelucci gave him money and cigarettes. The victim eventually filed a civil lawsuit along with 32 other individuals, which resulted in a $1.25 million settlement in October 2007.
Several other victims said Castelucci sexually abused them over a number of years. One victim claimed that in the 1970′ when he was a 12 or 13 -year -old altar boy, Castelucci had asked his mother if he could stay overnight at the St. Joseph rectory. According to the victim, his mother readily agreed since his father was no longer around. She wanted him to spend time with a man, particularly a priest for a positive role model.
On March 25, 2002, Castelucci submitted a handwritten letter to Bishop Wuerl withdrawing from active ministry. On the same date, Castelucci sent a second letter to Wuerl in which he denied all allegations against him.
Mauro James Cautela
5/1974-5/1979: Our Lady of Joy, Pittsburgh, PA
6/1979-8/1983: St. Vitus, New Castle, PA
8/1983-5/1984: St. James, Sewickley, PA
5/1984-1/1989: Mother of Good Counsel, Pittsburgh, PA
1/1989-10/1992: St. Norbert, Pittsburgh, PA
10/1992-2/2000: Purification of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Ellwood City, PA
7/1998-2/2000: St. Agatha, Ellwood City, PA
2/2000-8/2005: Holy Redeemer, Ellwood City, PA
Summary: Cautela was alleged to have inappropriately touched three young boys during the times that he respectively served as pastor of Our Lady of Joy, St. Norbert, Purification of the Blessed Virgin Mary, and Holy Redeemer. Additionally, Cautela is alleged to have used church donations and other funds to further some of his relationships with young boys as well as to purchase homosexual pornography on church computers.
In 2006, a victim stated that between 1975 and 1981, when he was about 14 years of age, Cautela molested him multiple times while on church property and at Bear Lake in Seven Springs. The victim alleged that he was provided alcohol on some occasions as well.
Cautela claimed that the victim asked for $20,000 in in 2003 in exchange for not exposing Cautela as a pedophile. The blackmail allegations had been forwarded to the Lawrence County District Attorney’s Office. The records revealed that an Ellwood City Police Officer advised that a case number was never assigned to the matter out of respect for Cautela.
In 2005, a male alleged that Cautela sexually abused him between 1998 and 2005 when he was between 12 and 19 years old. This victim said that Cautela first encouraged him to begin lifting weights at a nearby gym. Cuatela’s assistance with the weightlifting soon included inappropriate touching.
After the allegations were made, Cautela resigned from his position as pastor in August 2005 and was placed on administrative leave. On December 9, 2005, the Federal Bureau of Investigation agreed to file federal charges against Cautela for the incidents that occurred outside the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Cautela suffered a heart attack and died in 2005, concluding the criminal investigation
Charles J. Chatt
5/27/1964-3/27/1969: St. Alphonsus, Springdale, PA
3/28/1969-5/29/1974: St. Anne, Castle Shannon, PA
5/30/1974-8/23/1981: St. Albert the Great, Baldwin, PA
8/24/1981-7/27/1992: Our Lady of Loreto, Brookline, PA
7/27/1992-1/31/2003: Leave of Absence
1/31/2003: Withdrew from Active Ministry
Summary: In 1992, the father of a young man reported his son’s sexually abuse by Chatt. These incidents occurred in either 1970 or 1971, when the victim was in seventh or eighth grade at St. Anne. According to the Diocesan report, the father reported that he had gone to see Chatt and had told Chatt that he (Chatt) needed to call the Diocese or he (the victim’s father) would. That same day, Chatt met with Diocesan officials and admitted to the sexual contact which began at St. Anne when victim one was 14 years of age.
The report further disclosed that when Chatt was assigned to St. Albert’s, he had sexual contact for a few months with a 15 -year -old from that parish. A letter indicated that Chatt confirmed for church representatives that he was “involved in sexual relationships” with the first victim as well as “five other youngsters under the age of eighteen in the 1970’s.” He attributed his behavior to the ‘free spirit” of that time when the “anything goes” mentality was in “vogue,” in addition to his own sexual weaknesses and what he described as the “promiscuity of the adolescent boys involved.”
Following the first documented report of sexual abuse of children reported in July 1992 that occurred in 1970 or 1971 at St. Anne’s Parish, Chatt resigned as pastor of Our Lady of Loreto Parish. The parishioners were told that he had resigned for health reasons and to allow him time to better care for his aging parents. Chatt was sent to St. Michael’s Community for an evaluation and thereafter returned to the facility for treatment where he remained for approximately five months. At the completion of treatment, St. Michael’s staff recommended he be returned to ministry.
Anthony J. Cipolla
12/06/1972-11/14/1974: Parochial Vicar, St. Bernard Church, Mt. Lebanon, PA
11/15/1974-5/20/1975: Parochial Vicar, Immaculate Conception, Washington, PA
5/21/1975-9/22/1975: Parochial Vicar, St. Philomena, Beaver Falls, PA
9/23/1976-7/04/1978: Parochial Vicar, St. Agatha, Bridgeville, PA
7/05/1976-10/08/1978: Parochial Vicar, St. Francis Xavier, Pittsburgh, PA
10/09/1978-6/28/198: Parochial Vicar, St. Canice, Knoxville, PA
6/28/1983-7/05/1983: Parochial Vicar, St. Philip, Crafton, PA (7 days)
12/01/1983-11/01/1988: Chaplin, McGuire Memorial Home for Exceptional Children, New Brighton, PA
11/01/1988-9/19/2002: Leave of Absence
9/19/2002: Laicized
Summary: During the time Cipolla served as a priest, three different Bishops headed the Diocese. Cipolla was moved by his superiors from parish to parish, throughout the Diocese, several times during his tenure, for a total of eight moves in a 16-year period.
Cipolla was first accused of sexually abusing two brothers, ages 9 and 12 in 1978 in Cipolla’ s bedroom in the rectory and also in a hotel room in Dearborn, Michigan. On July 25, 1978, the victims’ mother called the Pittsburgh Police Department and criminal charges were filed. Ultimately, the criminal charges were not pursued … because, according to the mother, she was harassed and threatened by church officials to drop the charges and to “let the church handle it.”
Detectives subsequently interviewed the first victim, with his mother and father present. In Cipolla’s bedroom, the boy sat on Cipolla’s lap while Cipolla counted and squeezed the boy’s penis up to 50 times. Cipolla told him that this was their secret and it would be a sin if he told anyone. He was made to sign a paper saying he would not tell anyone. The boy said he went home and told his parents.
According to the investigation, Cipolla molested both boys under the pretense of giving them medical examinations.
The boys’ mother said that before a scheduled preliminary hearing, the prosecution allowed an attorney for the Diocese to question the boys. The woman said the diocese attorney “became a bully. He was telling my kids, `Well, look, you go into court, you’re going to be talking – – if you don’t want to talk about it now, there could be 100 people in there that you’re going to have to talk about it in front of and we’re going to tear your testimony apart.’”
The attorney also asked her why they wanted to “hurt the church?” She told the Grand Jury, however, “We weren’t there to hurt the church. We were there to stop Cipolla before he did it again with some other kids.” According to the mother, the prosecutor told her that if she signed to expunge the charges against Cipolla and he “does it again” within 10 years, “we can bring those charges back up.” She was told that “it would be kept quiet unless he committed the crime again.”
The woman said community harassment from Cipolla’s supporters got so bad, the family moved out of state.
The charges were dropped and the Diocese reassigned Cipolla immediately to St. Canice where he reoffended on another young male.
Because of his adamant refusal to comply with church-ordered treatment, in 1990 Cipolla was told he could not act as a priest in good standing; could not conduct any public celebrations as a priest; and could not wear priestly attire. He could not resume doing any of these things until he obtained a church – approved evaluation.
Even after an “official” ruling from the Vatican that he was no longer a priest in good standing, Cipolla continued to perform masses and to present himself as a priest in good standing, even though he was advised in person, several times, that he was barred from doing these things. Cippola’ s appeal to the Vatican was denied in November 1996.
In July 2002 Wuerl wrote to the Pope asking for Cipolla’ s dismissal from priesthood. Official approval for Cipolla’ s dismissal as a priest was issued on September 19, 2002. Despite this, in December of 2003 the Diocese received information that Cipolla was still saying masses and acting as a priest.
John P. Conner
4/28/1962: Assistant, St. Francis of Assisi, Vineland, NJ
1/08/1966: Assistant, St. Mary, Gloucester, NJ
6/18/1966: Assistant in Residence, St. Rose of Lima, Haddon Heights, NJ
6/18/1966: Faculty, Paul VI High School, Haddon Township, NJ
1969-1970: Assistant CYO Director of Diocese, Diocese Center
1970-1985: Chairperson, Bishop Eustace Preparatory, Pennsauken Township, NJ
2/2002: Removed from active ministry/retirement
Summary: In October 1984, Connor was arrested in New Jersey for sexually molesting a 14 -year -old child. The sexual abuse took place in Connor’ s home in the Diocese of Camden during the time he was a theology teacher and golf coach at Bishop Eustace Preparatory School in Pennsauken. Lawyers for the Diocese of Camden negotiated a pretrial intervention with the Cape May Prosecutor’s Office. The terms of the agreement were that if Connor would admit to sexually molesting the child, he would have the record of his arrest erased, as long as he were not re-arrested within one year.
Connor spent approximately eight months in treatment after his arrest. Despite his criminal history, Connor was transferred to the Pittsburgh Diocese in 1985. In 1988, Bevilacqua, who had become the Archbishop of Philadelphia, appointed Connor as assistant pastor of St. Matthew in Conshohocken, a parish with a grade school. Bevilacqua encouraged Connor, among other things, to “educate youth.” Connor was given an unrestricted ministry and there was no warning to the parishioners of the church that Connor was an admitted child molester.
Bevilacqua never told Father James W. Donlon, the pastor of St. Matthew Church, about Connor’s alcoholism and child abuse.
In 1993, Connor was suddenly moved back to Camden because his 1984 victim of sexual abuse had sued and received a settlement from the Diocese of Camden. Since Donlon received no warning from the Archbishop, he allowed Connor full access to the youth of the parish. The pastor did not know to be concerned about an especially close relationship that was developing between Connor and a young boy from the parish grade school, named “Timothy.” Donlon did not know about Connor’s criminal background until he was contacted by a news reporter in 2002.
John David Crowley
6/10/1954-6/9/1968: St. Elizabeth, Pleasant Hills, PA
6/10/1968-3/27/1969: St. Margaret, Green Tree, PA
3/28/1969-1/17/2003: Holy Angels, Hay, PA
1/10/2003: Resigned
Summary: In 1992, a complaint was made by a mother and her twin adult daughters, one of whom was 16 years old at the time, about sexual abuse by Crowley. Crowley was given a one-week mental health evaluation where it was deemed his denial of any abuse was truthful and was returned to his parish. In 2001, the woman and daughters renewed their complaints and the Diocesan Review Board found the victims’ allegations to be credible and rejected Crowley’ s testimony.
Crowley chose resignation on Jan. 7, 2003. Wuerl faced great scrutiny regarding Crowley’ s departure by members of the parish and the media who loved Crowley and thought Wuerl had forced Crowley out. Crowley died in 2006.
Richard Deakin
3/1984-6/1987: Deacon until ordained; Assistant Pastor after ordination, St. Martin, Baltimore, MD
6/1987-8/1988: Parochial Vicar, St. Cecilia Church and Friary, Rochester, PA
1988: St. Francis Friary, Brookline, PA (in residence only)
8/15/1989: Leave of Absence
12/29/1992: Dismissed from clerical state
Summary: In May 1990, Deakin was contacted by the Baltimore City Police Department about allegations that he had sexually abused a 13 -year -old girl for more than a two-year period while his was the assistant pastor of St. Martin in Baltimore, Md. At the time police contacted him, Deakin was on a leave of absence from his Order and the priesthood.
Deakin was arrested on June 25, 1990. He was charged with and, in October 1990, pleaded guilty to charges of second-degree rape and sexual abuse of a child. He was sentenced to a 15 -year suspended prison sentence and five years of probation. When the victim was 13, she had surgery to remove a tumor from her chest. During this vulnerable period, Deakin assumed a prominent role in her life, being both her friend and confidant. He would visit her in the hospital regularly and they became very close. “In the winter of 1985-86,” Deakin began sexually abusing her. “The sexual relationship intensified and sex occurred in St. Martin’s Church, the rectory, Father Rich’s car, (redacted) home, and various other locations.”
In an undated letter by Deakin detailed how the abuse started. He maintained the sexual contact was consensual. He went on to say that he believed that he and the victim “were both so emotionally needy that we overlooked what was right and wrong.” Deakin said he ended the relationship when he fell in love with another woman.
Ferdinand B. Demsher
8/22/1946 – 7/16/1947: St. Peter, New Kensington, PA
7/17/1947 – 6/29/1949: Christ the King, Ambridge, PA
6/30/1949 – 5/20/1951: St. James, West End, PA
5/20/1951 – 6/29/1963: United States Army
7/02/1963 – 6/06/1966: Resurrection, Brookline, PA
6/07/1966 – 6/24/1983: St. Mary of the Assumption, Pittsburgh, PA
Summary: On March 18, 2002, a victim contacted the Diocese to report sexual abuse by Demsher. The victim stated that the abuse occurred from 1975 to 1976 at St. Mary of the Assumption church. The victim was approximately 13 to 14 at that time.
According to the victim, his grandparents arranged for him to be employed at St. Mary doing odd jobs for Demsher. One summer day, he complained of a heat rash on his inner thigh. Demsher offered to look at the rash, and the victim remembered being in Demsher’s rectory office with his pants down. He stated that Demsher had “manipulated his penis until it was hard” and when he could no longer “stand it he ejaculated.” The victim stated that he knew it was wrong, but “he [Demsher] could cause problems for me.” Demsher continued this pattern of abuse while the victim had the heat rash.
An internal Dioesan memorandum dated April 4, 2002 ended with “we found [the victim’s] allegation to be credible.” The Diocese agreed to cover the cost of tuition for his daughters to attend Catholic school.
On Feb. 4, 2015, a second victim came forward with allegations of abuse. He advised that Demsher engaged in sexual activity with him while he was approximately 14. He stated that the abuse occurred when he was a freshman at Central Catholic High School. The victim recalled having a cold and Demsher’s remedy was to fondle the boy’s genitals.
In February 2016, a third victim claimed he was fondled by Demsher in grade school. In April 2016, a fourth victim called to report sexual abuse by Demsher from the mid -late 1960s. The Diocese provided the victim with financial help on September 9, 2016.
Myles Eric Diskin
3/12/1975 – 7/17/1979: St. Paul, Butler, PA
7/18/1975 – 11/26/1981: Purification of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Ellwood City, PA
11/27/1981 – 7/05/1987: Sacred Heart, Pittsburgh, PA
7/06/1987 – 1/01/1991: Diocese of Pittsburgh
1/31/1991 – 5/24/2002: Diocese of Pittsburgh
3/19/2003: Resigned
Summary: Diocesan records contain a letter dated June 2004 to Butler County District Attorney’s Office which acknowledges a series of civil lawsuits relating to Diskin’ s conduct. Three complaints had been filed with the Butler County DA alleging sexual abuse by Diskin: on a boy in the mid -1970s at a church in Butler; a girl in the mid -1970’s at the same church; and, a boy in 1976 to 1977 when the victim was 12 to 13. That abuse occurred in the school, in the rectory, in Diskin’ s automobile, in the sanctuary of the church (St. Paul), and in the victim’s home.
In February 2009, a complaint of sexual abuse by Diskin was made to the Allegheny County District Attorney’s Office. Two victims reported that Diskin sexually abused them in the mid –1970s when they would have been approximately 11 and 14. A January 2015 complaint of sexual abuse was made to the Allegheny County District Attorney’s Office. An unidentified male said Diskin sexually abused him by inappropriately touching him in Butler County in 1976 to 1977 when the victim was 15 to 16.
Also in January, 2015, another complaint was made to the Diocese when a woman advised that Diskin sexually abused her by inappropriately touching her in the mid-1970s in Butler County when she was a minor.
Richard J. Dorsch
6/15/1970-5/20/1975: Parochial Vicar, St. Basil, Carrick, PA
5/21/1975-10/12/1977: Parochial Vicar, St. Philip, Crafton, PA
10/13/1977-3/07/1983: Parochial Vicar, All Saints, Etna, PA
3/08/1983-5/25/1985: Parochial Vicar, St. Michael, Butler, PA
6/26/1985-9/23/199: Pastor, St. Francis De Sale, McKees Rocks, PA
9/23/1991-2/07/1994: Administrator, St. Coleman, Turtle Creek, PA
2/07/1994-8/26/1994: Team Ministry, Risen Lord, Pittsburgh, PA
8/26/1994: Leave of Absence
5/28/1996: Withdrawn from ministry
Summary: Dorsch was arrested on Aug. 26, 1994, following allegations arising from a child’s routine physical examination that month. At a meeting between Dorsch and Diocese officials the day of the arrest, Dorsch admitted to “inappropriately” touching the victim, holding him longer than necessary, and sitting the victim on his (Dorsch’s) lap while stroking the victim’s stomach and touching his nipples. He denied touching the boy’s genitals.
In April 1995, a jury convicted Dorsch of two counts of indecent assault and one count of corrupting the morals of a minor. He was sentenced to 11 1/2 to 23 months incarceration but releases on parole one week later and admitted back to St. Luke Institute in Maryland.
On Dec. 9, 1994, a second victim indicated he was sexually assaulted by Dorsch at the All Saints church in Etna when he was 10. The victim indicated the sexual abuse stopped only when Dorsch was transferred from All Saints when the victim was in eighth grade. He estimated that, in total, Dorsch assaulted him on 50 to 70 separate occasions. The victim later filed a lawsuit against the Diocese alleging a decades-long conspiracy to protect priests who molested minors. A review of Dorsch’s Diocesan file did not reveal how this lawsuit was ultimately resolved.
On Feb. 25, 2004, a third victim, who served as an altar boy and attended a school associated with All Saints, described how Dorsch taught him to play racquetball and then made him sit on his lap in the hot tub. After masses, Dorsch would take the victim to play board games and put his hands down the victim’s pants. On other occasions, Dorsch would take him for car rides and make the victim touch him sexually while he drove. The victim further informed Diocesan officials that he also sexually abused by Dorsch at the “Braille Trail” (located in North Park/Allegheny County), in the sacristy, the rectory, the Shaler Racquetball Court, and in the parking lot of a local shopping center. These sexual assaults reportedly included oral and anal sex. In March 2010, the Diocese announced it would stop paying for the victim’s mental health treatment. On May 4, 2010, the victim committed suicide.
A fourth victim reported that when he was in the seventh and eighth grade, Dorsch began sexually abusing him. By the end of his eighth grade school year, he was drinking heavily. At his worst, he was drinking a half gallon of vodka per day in the hopes that his drinking would kill him.
A fifth victim alleged Dorsch sexually abused him when he served as an altar boy at St. Coleman at ages 12 to 14.
David F. Dzermejko
5/30/1974-6/10/1979: Our Lady of the Most Blessed Sacrament, Natrona Heights, PA
6/11/1979-6/03/1984: St. Teresa of Avila, Pittsburgh, PA
6/04/1984-6/10/1991: St. Susanna, Penn Hills, PA
6/10/1991-10/26/1992: St. Jerome, Charleroi, PA
10/26/1992-6/15/2009: Mary, Mother of the Church, Charleroi, PA
6/15/2009: Leave of Absence
6/15/2009-1/18/2013: Resides at St. John Vianney Manor, Pittsburgh, PA
10/2015: Laicized
Summary: Dzermejko was reported to have had inappropriate contact with several young boys, conduct which included anal and oral sexual assaults of young minors. In June 2009, a woman called to report that prior to her husband’s suicide in April, 2009, he told her that he had been sexually abused by Dzermejkko. It occurred sometime between 1979 and 1984. After meeting with representatives from the Diocese, it was decided that this victim’s family would be provided with funds for counseling.
On June 19, 2009, a second victim stated that he was an altar boy at St. Teresa of Avila while he was a student at the school from 1979-1982 while he was in the fifth, sixth and seventh grades. This victim reported that he was “raped, had anal and oral sex and performed oral sex with Dave over a course of three years.”
On Jan. 31, 2012, a third victim reported that he was sexually abused by Dzermejko in the late 1980’s when he was 15 to 16 years of age. On Jan. 11, 2013, law enforcement officers executed a warrant to search Dzermejko’ s rooms at St. John Vianney Manor. They seized child pornography, located on his computer and also found firearms and illegal drugs. He was arrested in April 2013 for possession of child pornography. Dzermejko admitted: That he had been viewing child pornography for in excess of 10 years; that he had historically travelled to Thailand to have sexual encounters with teen boys; and, that he had gone there as recently as the same calendar year. In November 2013, Dzermejko pled guilty to possession of child pornography in federal court. He was sentenced to three years in prison. He began serving that sentence in June 2014.
Redacted – pending litigation
The name of the priest, where he served and the exact incident was entirely redacted in the grand jury report.
John P. Fitzgerald
5/30/1974 – 2/7/1977 St. Thomas, Braddock, PA
5/30/1974 – 2/7/1977 St. Michael, Braddock, PA
2/8/1977 – 7/7/1982 St. Michael the Archangel, Butler, PA
7/8/1982 – 3/7/1983 St. Alexis, Wexford, PA
3/8/1983 – 6/12/1988 All Saint’s, Pittsburgh, PA
6/13/1988 – 6/21/1989 St. Anselm, Pittsburgh, PA
6/21/1989 – 8/2/1991 St. Teresa of Avila, Pittsburgh, PA
8/2/1991 – 7/17/1995 St. Anthony, Bessemer, PA
11/28/1994 – 6/17/1996 Pittsburgh International Airport
1/3/1995 – 7/17/1995 St. Lawrence, Hillsville, PA
7/17/1995 – 6/17/1996 St. John Neumann, Pittsburgh, PA
6/17/1996 – 7/1/2009 Pittsburgh International Airport
7/1/2009 – 7/31/2014 Our Lady of Peace, Conway, PA
Summary: In 1996 while Fitzgerald resided at Holy Trinity Church and was the Chaplain at the Pittsburgh International Airport drove a boy to a hanger in New Castle where Fitzgerald’s airplane was kept. During the ride, Fitzgerald touched the boy’s genital area. On another occasion, while they were in Fitzgerald’s airplane, Fitzgerald touched the boy’s genital area and attempted to put his hand down the boy’s pants. The boy further reported that Fitzgerald exposed himself in the Pittsburgh International Airport chapel and also had the boy perform oral sex on him “maybe half a dozen times.” Fitzgerald instructed the boy not to tell anyone, warning that he would do the same thing to his mother and sister. Fitzgerald told him, “I know when your father isn’t at home.” Fitzgerald denied the allegations.
The current status of proceedings against Fitzgerald is unknown. The Diocese paid for some of the counseling and drug treatment for the male in addition to providing the family with a $40,000 reimbursement for drug treatment expenses that were incurred prior to the report being made.
Joseph M. Ganter
7/1922-9/1923: Saint’s Peter & Paul, Pittsburgh, PA
9/1923-7/1932: St. Martin Church, West End, Pittsburgh, PA
7/1932-3/1942: St. Athanasius Church, West View, PA
3/1942-6/1964: St. Boniface Church, Penn, PA
6/3/1964: Retired
Summary: In 2008, an 80-year-old male contacted the Diocese of Pittsburgh to report that Ganter had abused him in the 1930s when he was approximately 10 and an altar server at St. Anthanasius. When Ganter’s personal file was reviewed, an allegation from 1944 was discovered wherein an adult male had complained of immoral and corrupt relationships between Ganter and at least three teenage boys, ages 13 to 15.
Two teenage boys refused Ganter’s requests for sex and received $3 and $12 from Ganter along with instructions to tell no one. A third teen engaged in a sex act with Ganter on Sept. 30, 1943.
In 1945, at the request of Ganter, a Justice of the Peace conducted an investigation into the accusations. The individuals were interviewed, gave different stories and denied any supposed immoral relations with Ganter.
John A. Genizer
7/31/1968-5/21/1973: Parochial Vicar, St. Paul, Butler, PA
5/22/1973-2/17/1975: Special Assignment, Office of Religious Education, Diocese of Pittsburgh Pastoral Center
5/22/1973-2/17/1975: Duquesne University-Graduate Studies
2/17/1975-8/21/1980: Assistant Director, Adult Religious Education Diocese of Pittsburgh Pastoral Center
8/25/1980-4/29/1990: Associate Spiritual Director, Mount St. Mary Seminary, Emmitsburg, MD
6/11/1990-6/10/1991: Parochial Vicar, Holy Innocents, Pittsburgh, PA
6/01/1991-2/07/1994: Assistant Chaplain Nursing Home, McGuire Memorial Home, New Brighton, PA
6/10/1991-2/07/1994: Administrator, St. Cyril & Methodius, New Brighton, PA
2/07/1994-1/17/2000: Pastor, St. Colman, Turtle Creek, PA
1/17/2000-3/12/2007: Chaplain Military -US Navy, Archdiocese for Military Services, Washington, DC
3/12/2007-7/07/2008: Administrator, St. Barbara, Bridgeville, PA
7/07/2008-6/06/2011: Parochial Vicar, St. John the Baptist, Pittsburgh, PA
6/06/2011 – present: Chaplain, Little Sisters of the Poor
Summary: In a document dated July 7, 1995, it was reported that the son of a member of the Archdiocese had revealed that was fondled by Genizer in 1980 when he was 13. It was advised that the son’s parents were very involved in the church and were reputable and did not want to make the information public.
It was subsequently determined that because of the sexual allegation listed in his confidential file, Genizer would not be endorsed to serve as chaplain. Genizer was assured, however, that the allegation would not affect his current standing in the Diocese because the Diocese deemed it to be an “inconclusive allegation.”
After specific allegations of unnatural interest in young boys were made and documented in his file, Diocesan officials continued to write and sign letters advising that Genizer was a priest in “good standing.” A letter stated: “To the best of my knowledge, he has never engaged in sexual behavior inconsistent with priestly celibacy, nor had he ever acted in an inappropriate manner with minors.”
Charles R. Ginder
8/1940-9/1942: St. Gregory, Zelienople, PA and St. Mathias, Evans City, PA
9/1972-2/1946: Society of St. Suplice (NFI)
2/1946-6/1950: Saint’s Simon & Jude, Blairsville, PA
6/1950-12/1953: St. George, Pittsburgh, PA (South Side)
12/1953-6/1959: St. Joseph, Pittsburgh, PA (North Side)
12/1954-7/1962: Censor Librorum
6/1959-2/1961: St. Mary, New Castle, PA
2/1961-8/1962: School Sisters of St. Francis, Bellevue, PA
7/1962-7/1963: Health related leave of absence
8/1963-5/1964: Our Lady of Mercy Academy (NFI)
5/1964-6/1964: St. Januarius, Pittsburgh, PA
5/1964-6/1964: St. John the Baptist, Pittsburgh, PA
6/1964-1/1967: Sick Leave
1/1967-?: St. John the Baptist, Baden, PA
1970-6/1984: Sick Leave
Summary: Over the course of years, an adult male residing in Seattle, Wash. contacted the Diocese of Pittsburgh on multiple occasions, never providing details of his abuse, but he threatening to sue the Diocese. The male sent a letter stating he was taken to New York, New Jersey and Philadelphia by Ginder between 1958 and 1961. He did not provide details of any abuse, but advised that the details would be contained in a book that he planned to write. The male also advised that he was abused by another priest in Pittsburgh who now lived in Florida. He refused to name the other priest, however, in order to maintain “the element of surprise.”
In September 2005, the male warned the Diocese he would be in Pittsburgh in the near future and wanted to make the abuse publicly known. He advised that he had requested that CNN and 60 Minutes accompany him. In 2006, he called the Diocese to advise that he was expecting reimbursement for the cost of many years of counseling and medication that he has incurred due to abuse by Ginder.
On Nov. 28, 2007, the Diocese sent the man $4,092.00 for monthly insurance premiums. In a June 2008 letter stated that the Diocese had entered into a mediation process in connection with a lawsuit and that the man was to receive $16,000.00 as his portion of the resolution.
In 2002, a 50 -year -old male living in New Jersey reported that he had been abused by Ginder when he was between the ages of 15 and 17. The male further stated that he lived with Ginder for a short time and the relationship with Ginder and others was “out of control.” He described Ginder as “a physically abusive monster.”
James G. Graham
6/07/1966 – 1/23/1972: St. Lawrence O’Toole, Pittsburgh, PA
1/24/1972 – 5/29/1974: St. Elizabeth of Hungary, Pittsburgh, PA
5/30/1974 – 9/18/1978: St. Bernadette, Monroeville, PA
9/19/1978 – 4/13/2012: St. Lawrence O’Toole, Garfield, PA
4/13/2012 – 3/06/2015: Leave of Absence
Summary: A long-time female partner of a male victim who died of a drug overdose in 2012 verified a letter that he wrote wherein he detailed his abuse at the hands of Graham which started when he was 9. The abuse lasted two or three years. The female partner became aware of the abuse after the birth of her daughter when the victim refused to allow Graham to baptize baby.
The sister of a victim testified that when her brother was placed on a liver transplant list, she had several conversations with him about Graham. He told her about the intimacy and sex he had with Graham when he was 15. The victim died in 2002.
A third victim advised that on two occasions while he was playing pool, Graham came up behind him, lowered his pants and inserted his penis into the victim’s anus. The victim was 16 -years -old at the time.
All three allegations were deemed to be credible. Graham’s testimony before the Review Board was deemed not to be credible. The Review Board believed that Graham’s mental capacity was diminished due to his alcoholism.
William Hildebrand
No listed employment/work history
Summary: In May 2014, four adult males reported that they were abused by Brother William Hildebrand, who was a member of the Marianist Order. The records indicated that the Diocese attempted to reach out to the victims regarding counseling.
John S. Hoehl
1964: St. Mary Magdalene, Homestead, PA
1966: St. Francis Xavier, Pittsburgh, PA
1971: Quigley Catholic High School, Baden, PA
1985: Bishop Boyle High School, Homestead, PA
1985: St. John Joachim, Greenfield, PA
1986: Secretariat for Education, Pittsburgh, PA
1987: Shadyside Hospital, Pittsburgh, PA
Summary: On May 2, 1986, a 28-year-old male reported he had been sexually abused by Hoehl. He stated that from 1972, when he was a 14-year-old freshman at Quigley High School, until 1979, when he was a senior at Duquesne University, Hoehl fondled his genitals and they performed mutual masturbation and oral sex on each other on a regular basis. At the time this disclosure was made, a young man was living with Hoehl at the rectory at St. Joachim. Found within the rectory were various drug paraphernalia, condoms and other pornographic materials, including videos and literature.
In 1993, a 29 -year -old adult male reported that he had been sexually involved with Hoehl beginning in 1978 when he was 15. He stated he was sodomized on at least two occasions and that oral sex and mutual masturbation occurred on many occasions.
In 1997, a 29-year-old male reported that in 1976, when he was 9, Hoehl touched and rubbed his genitals and, performed oral sex on him. He stated that the sexual activity lasted until he was 18. On Sept. 22, 2000, the male filed a lawsuit against Hoehl and the Diocese in connection with the sexual abuse. On Dec. 14, 2007, the male’s parents received a $10,000 check for emotional and financial hardship suffered.
On April 26, 2002, a 33-year-old male reported sexual abuse by Hoehl at Hoehl’s private residence at Quigley in 1979 when he was 16. The male reported that Hoehl sexually abused him and provided him with drugs and alcohol until 1982.
In 2004, an adult male informed the Diocese that he was sexually abused by Hoehl when he was 16 and a sophomore at Quigley. He stated that in April 1978, a friend came out to tell him that a girl was in trouble in Hoehl’ s office. The two boys ran into the office where they saw her naked from the waist down. She was being held down by an older student and Hoehl was about to rape her. The boys helped her retrieve her clothes and wanted to get her out of the office as quickly as possible. Hoehl told them that he would release the girl if they stayed behind to take her place. They agreed. Hoehl locked the office on both sides and sodomized both boys.
Another victim came forward in 2004 to report that Hoehl had touched him inappropriately between 1980 and 1984. On April 21, 2008, the Diocese issued a check to the male in the amount of $10,000.00 as a pastoral gesture for the financial difficulties he had experienced.
The Diocese was also notified that Hoehl fondled the genitals of a 13-year-old boy in 1979 and approached the boy in the shower. These incidents occurred at Quigley and in a “cabin at a lake.” The victim received $40,000.00 from the Diocese to settle his part of a 32-victim lawsuit against the Diocese. He later received a check in the amount of $10,000 to help with his additional expenses.
Another Quigley student, who alleged previous abuse by Hoehl, reported that on graduation day, his diploma case was empty. Hoehl informed him that if he wanted his diploma, he needed to come to see him. The student never returned to get his diploma because he did not want to deal with Hoehl. During treatment, Hoehl admitted that he had been sexually involved with several high school students when he was Headmaster at Quigley.
On July 1, 1987, Hoehl was appointed as a chaplain at Shadyside Hospital. However, on November 29, 1988, he was informed by the Diocese that he could no longer continue in ministry. Hoehl resigned. After the Diocese withdrew his priestly faculties, he was provided with subsistence and medical benefits for 3 ½ years.
James Hopkins
Unknown employment history
Summary: In November 2012, the Diocese of Pittsburgh received information from an adult male about Hopkins, performing a “medical exam” on him when he was freshman at St. Fidelis Seminary High School. The exam involved the young man bending over naked in front of Hopkins and listening to Hopkins make creepy comments about his behind.
In 1995, Hopkins pleaded guilty to sexually molesting an altar boy in Camden County. He received a 10-year prison sentence and was ordered to register as a sex offender.
John J. Huber
6/1968-5/1973: St. Canice Church, Knoxville, PA
5/1973-5/1979: St. Joseph Church, Duquesne, PA
5/1979-6-1983: St. James Church, Sewickley, PA
6/1983-7/1984: St. Joseph Home for Aged, Pittsburgh, PA
7/1984-8/1985: St. Bernard, Mt. Lebanon, PA
8/1985-8/1991: St. Thomas Aquinas, California, PA
8/1991-12/1998: St. Catherine of Siena, Wireton, PA
Summary: An adult male reported that when he was in fourth or fifth grade, a priest by the name of Father Adams had touched him in his genital area. Sometime later, the boy went to confession and told Huber that he may be attracted to men. Huber responded that he should attend one-on-one counseling sessions. During one of those sessions, Huber performed oral sex on him and then gave him $20 afterwards. The male stated that this occurred on more than one occasion.
Edward G. Huff
5/22/1973 – 2/27/1978: Holy Innocents, Pittsburgh, PA
2/27/1978 – 6/29/1983: North American Martyrs, Monroeville, PA
6/29/1983 – 1/10/1987: St. Gabriel of the Sorrowful Mother, Whitehall, PA
1/10/1987 – 6/17/1991: St. Anthony, Bessemer, PA
6/17/1991 – 2/27/1992: St. Anselm, Swissvale, PA
2/27/1992 – 11/2/1992: Leave of Absence
11/2/1992 – 1/7/1993: Office for Chaplaincies and Campus Ministry
1/7/1993 – 2/16/1993: Leave of Absence
2/16/1993: Resigned
Summary: Records revealed that several victims provided similar accounts of Huff allowing them to drive his car while touching them inappropriately. On June 22, 1994, Huff was arrested and charged with several crimes in Lawrence County for conduct that occurred when he was a priest at St. Anthony’s. On Aug. 21, 1996, Huff pleaded guilty and was sentenced to serve 18 months to 5 years in prison. He was paroled on August 5, 1999.
There was a May 5, 2000 handwritten note (author unknown) in Huff’s file. The note stated that Huff, “admitted to touching 500 kids and targeting at least 1200 . . .”
Edward Joyce
3/15/1941 – 12/04/1946: Parochial Vicar, St. James, Wilkinsburg, PA
12/05/1946 — 6/15/1955: Parochial Vicar, St. Andrew, North Side, PA
6/16/1955 — 7/29/1959: Parochial Vicar, St. Titus, Aliquippa, PA
7/29/1959 — 10/05/1959: Parochial Vicar, St. Joseph, Sharpsburg, PA
10/06/1959 — 9/21/1959 (sic): Vic Enc, St. Joseph, Sharpsburg, PA
9/22/1959 — 7/22/1963: Pastor, St. Joseph, Sharpsburg, PA
7/23/1963 — 8/27/1968: Pastor, St. Joseph, North Side, PA
8/28/1968 — 1/11/1969: Chaplain, Sisters of St. Francis, Mt. Assisi, PA
Summary: In December 2002, an allegation of sexual abuse by Monsignor Joyce was made to the Allegheny County District Attorney’s Office. A male had reported to the Diocese of Pittsburgh that Joyce had inappropriately touched him from 1966 to 1968 at a church in Allegheny County. He stated that he and Joyce gave each other massages which eventually led to naked massages and heavy touching. On one occasion, he and Joyce were caught in a compromising position. After the incident, Joyce was quickly reassigned to an all-girls school.
Marvin Justi
1958-1969: St. Fidelis Seminary
1969-1972: Quigley High School, Ambridge, PA
1972: Good Shepard Catholic Church, Shawnee, KS
1980: St. Cecilia Catholic Church, Ambridge, PA
2002: St. Joseph Church, Cabot, PA
Summary: In August 2016, a woman reported that in June 1969, she was a 17-year-old nursing student at Sewickley Valley Hospital. During that time, Justi was a patient and she gave him a sponge bath. He became sexually aroused and insisted that she continue to wash his genitals. After that, Justi began sending her suggestive letters and notes. Her mother found the notes and reported Justi to his superior. In 1982, the woman was working at a physical therapy facility in Ambridge when Justi arrived as a patient. He proceeded to undress and refused to get dressed when she attempted to start the session. He was asked to leave and seek therapy elsewhere. In 1985, Justi appeared at the female’s house unannounced. She allowed him to enter. While there, he used the restroom. He then re -appeared in the living room naked with a freshly shaven genital area. He left after she picked up the telephone to call the police. Diocesan records contained little to no documentation on any investigation conducted by the Diocese of Pittsburgh.
Bernard J. Kaczmarczyk
6/13/1957-10/19/1959: Assistant, St. Robert Bellarmine, E. McKeesport PA
10/20/1959-5/30/1961: Assistant, St. Ladislaus, Natrona, PA
5/31/1961-9/21/1967: Assistant, St. Adalbert, South Side, PA
9/22/1967-9/19/1968: Assistant, St. Stanislaus, Ambridge, PA
9/20/1968-3/01/1970: Assistant, Holy Family, Lawrenceville, PA
3/01/1970-10/26/1992: Pastor, Holy Name of Mary, Donora, PA
10/30/1992: Leave of Absence
2/28/1994: Faculties withdrawn
11/1997-1/1998: Halfway house
6/1998: Suspended as a priest
Summary: On Feb. 8, 1994, a female alleged that Kaczmarczyk had sexually abused her three nephews, ages 11, 14 and 15, at the rectory in Donora and also at his home in Florida. She also reported that her nephew would frequently sleep with Kaczmarczyk, who wore his sister’s dresses as pajamas.
Joseph D. Karabin
1974 – 1979: Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Midland, PA
1979 – 1980: St. Joan of Arc, Library, PA
1980: St. Joseph the Worker, New Castle, PA
1980 – 1981: Holy Name, Duquesne, PA
1981 – 1986: St. Albert the Great, Baldwin, PA
1986 – 2002: Braddock Hospital, Braddock, PA
Summary: Karabin was accused of molesting two children on separate occasions in 1980 and 1985 at two different parishes. Karabin told his superiors that the second incident occurred because of the stress he was under from not having his own pastorate.
Treatment records noted Karabin was not a pedophile but had a “homosexual interest in boys 15 – 18” and that the “two incidents” of “acting out” were partially due to alcohol.
In October 1991, a third victim advised that he had been sexually abused by Karabin when he was approximately 13 to 14 years old and an altar boy. Karabin undressed him, fondled him and attempted anal sex with him.
Karabin resigned in 2002 but continued to receive sustenance and health benefits.
John Keegan
Employment history unknown
Summary: In April 2014, an adult male reported that from 1957 through 1961, while he was a student at North Catholic High School, Keegan fondled his genitals and masturbated him.
In May 2014 a second adult male reported that Keegan fondled his genitals in 1958 or 1959 while he was a student at North Catholic High School.
That same month, a fourth adult male reported incidents involving Keegan and Brother Hildebrand. The male stated that from 1956 through 1960, Keegan fondled his genitals when he was a minor attending North Catholic High School. Keegan also offered to “examine” the male’s penis because of the male’s masturbation habits. The male further reported that Hildebrand asked him whether he ever saw his sister naked. Hildebrand then attempted to fondle him sexually.
Again in May 2014, a sixth complaint from an adult male alleged Keegan fondled his genitals when he was a student in 1958 or 1959 at North Catholic High School. He also stated that Keegan asked to examine his genitals while they were together in the band pit area at the school.
All of the allegations were forwarded to the Allegheny County District Attorney’s Office.
Redacted – pending litigation
The name of the priest, where he served and the exact incident was entirely redacted in the grand jury report.
Henry Krawczyk
10/09/1978 — 6/29/1983: Parochial Vicar, St. Mary, McKeesport, PA
6/29/1983 — 6/12/1988: Parochial Vicar, Our Lady of Joy, Pittsburgh, PA
6/13/1988 — 10/26/1992: Parochial Vicar, St. Therese, Munhall, PA
10/26/1992 — 10/31/1994: Team Ministry, St. Maximillian, Homestead, PA
10/31/1994 — 6/23/2003: Pastor, St. Maximillian, Homestead, PA
6/23/2003 — present: Administrative Leave
Summary: In February 2005, Krawczyk pleaded guilty to one count of involuntary manslaughter, resulting from a cookout he held on June 17, 2003 where he supplied alcohol to several underage University of Pittsburgh football players. One of the players fell to his death from the roof of St. Anne.
Records reveal that on three other occasions, Krawczyk was accused of providing alcohol to minors.
In November 2006, a confidential memorandum state that two brothers reported that Krawczyk engaged in sexual activity with their younger brother. Their younger brother told them that he and Krawczyk would frequently get high and drunk together. On one occasion, he passed out and awoke to Krawczyk performing oral sex on him. The young man committed suicide in August 2006. The Diocese paid for or reimbursed the family for the man’s drug treatment and funeral expenses.
Redacted – pending litigation
The name of the priest, where he served and the exact incident was entirely redacted in the grand jury report.
Edward L. Kryston
5/30/1974-6/17/1979: Assistant, St. Luke, Carnegie, PA
6/18/1979-10/05/1980: Assistant, St. John, Unity, PA
10/06/1980-7/15/1984: Assistant, St Pius X, Pittsburgh, PA
7/16/1984-6/12/1988: Parochial Vicar, St. Martin, Pittsburgh, PA
6/13/1988-6/21/1989: Parochial Vicar, Our Lady of Joy, Holiday Park, PA
6/22/1989-1/11/1996: Parochial Vicar, Holy Trinity, Moon Run, PA
1/17/1996-9/23/1996: Leave of Absence
9/23/1996-8/27/1999: Parochial Vicar, St. Albert the Great, Baldwin, PA
8/27/1999: Pastor, St. Albert the Great, Baldwin, PA
Summary: Kryston was accused of and treated for an unnatural interest in girls ages 15 to 19 and sometimes younger. The president of the St. Pius Parish Council wrote to the Pittsburgh Diocese in May 1984 about receiving several complaints about Kryston’s “negative attitude, his lack of concern for the Parish, and his seemingly strong interest in young women.”
Kryston denied any inappropriate conduct or behavior. In December 1985, a concerned St. Pius teacher noted and reported: Kryston’s attention to eighth and ninth grade girls, while ignoring boys; his inviting girls to the rectory to talk at 11:15 p.m.; and circling the block of a young girl and then inviting her to accompany him alone on a shopping trip.
In January 1986, other documented concerns regarding Kryston included “drinking and fooling around with girls,” arranging a dinner for two in the rectory with an eighth-grade girl and asking a class how they would feel if they were naked answering the telephone.
There were pornographic magazines under Kryston’s bed and that he had pictures of a young girl from the school on his wall … in various poses, such as sitting under a tree, in a bikini. It was reported to the Diocese that Kryston had invited the girl on an overnight trip to an amusement park. They were to share the same motel room. The young girl’s parents refused to give Kryston permission to take their daughter on the trip.
Sister Mary Ann Lostoski, principal of the Holy Trinity school, reported Kryston was always around seventh- and eighth-grade girls and often smelled of alcohol.
Kryston was granted permission to withdraw for the active ministry in August 2002, with the promise the Diocese would continue to pay for his sustenance and benefits.
Anujit Kumar
4/13/2002: Parochial Vicar, India
9/2008: Missionary, St. Joan of Arc, South Park, PA
Summary: In September 2008, a minor female reported that Kumar had kissed her on her lips several times using his “tongue” and was “sucking her lips.” He then asked for her telephone number and gave her his business card along with a gift. Several other altar servers witnessed the incident. Kumar was interviewed by the Clergy Office concerning the incident and admitted to the conduct. He stated that his reason for kissing her inappropriately was that he was trying to “recruit her for the convent.” The incident was reported to the South Park Police Department but the victim and her parents declined to go forward with prosecution.
George Kurutz
9/21/1944 – 11/08/1944: St. Stephen, Pittsburgh, PA
11/09/1944 – 6/25/1952: St. Joseph, West Aliquippa/St. Catherine Parish, Wireton, PA
6/26/1952 – 6/15/1955: St. George, South Side, PA
6/16/1955 – 10/05/1955: Holy Trinity, McKeesport, PA
10/06/1955 – 4/10/1960: Immaculate Conception, Washington, PA
4/11/1960 – 5/30/1961: Our Lady of Consolation, Nemacolin/St. Mary Parish, Crucible/Sacred Heart, Rices Landing, PA
5/31/1961 – 5/07/1965: St. Lawrence O’Toole, Pittsburgh, PA
5/08/1965 – 6/06/1967: St. Michael, New Castle PA
6/07/1967 – 8/31/1976: St. Helen, East Pitsburgh, PA
9/01/1976: Resigned
A 47-year-old female stated that she and her sister were molested by Kurutz in the late 1950’s and early 1960’s. She stated their mother sent them to Kurutz at his new parish in New Castle when she was in sixth grade. She reported that more serious incidents occurred with her sister. She also advised that her sister walked in on their mother while she was performing oral sex on Kurutz.
Fidelis Lazar
1966 – 1969: St. Vincent / Latrobe, Instructor
1970 -1975: St. Bede / Bovard, Instructor
1975 – 1976: Sacred Heart / St. Mary, Instructor
08/16/1976 – 03/22/1981: St. Clare / Clairton, Parochial Vicar
03/23/1981 – 7/07/1982: St. Joan of Arc / Library, Parochial Vicar
07/08/1982 – 05/31/1984: St. Mary / New Castle, Parochial Vicar
06/01/1984 – 06/13/1986: St. Joseph / Bloomfield, Parochial Vicar
06/14/1984 – 04/23/1987: St. Teresa / Koppel, Parochial Vicar
04/23/1987 – 09/25/1989: Leave of Absence
09/25/1989: Withdrew from active priestly ministry
Summary: In October 1986, an adolescent male reported he had been sexually abused by Lazar in June 1986. Lazar initially denied the allegation, stating the family was “troubled” and was singling him out. In treatment, Lazar admitted being sexually active with children after his ordination.
In September 1994, another male contacted the Diocese and gave an in-person account of his abuse by Lazar. He reported that he was only 15 or 16 years of age at the time.
In March 2002, the Diocese received communication from a male asking for the status of Lazar. This male reported that when Lazar was a Benedictine monk in the 1960’s, Lazar abused him while he was at St. Vincent’s Preparatory School in Latrobe.
Redacted – pending litigation
The name of the priest, where he served and the exact incident was entirely redacted in the grand jury report.
Albert Leonard
1987: Parochial Vicar, Saint Ursula, Allison Park, PA
November 1993: Leave of Absence
Summary: In 1989 and 1993, the Diocese of Pittsburgh received complaints about Leonard’s behavior with children. In one case, parents expressed their concern about Leonard’s relationship with their 14-year-old son. In another case, parents expressed concern about Leonard’s relationship with their minor son and reported that he swam nude with boys.
In September 1994, Leonard attempted to obtain employment with Holy Family Institute, a residential treatment facility for children. The Diocese disclosed information regarding Leonard’s sexual history with minors to the institute. Leonard complained to the Diocese that the disclosure of that information had hindered his employment. The Diocese did not notify law enforcement of Leonard’s conduct.
Casimir F. Lewandowski
12/6/1945 – 10/23/1946: St. Matthew, Pittsburgh, PA (Southside)
10/24/1946 – 6/17/1953: St. Kieran, Pittsburgh, PA (Lawrenceville)
6/18/1953 – 9/16/1953: Mercy Hospital, Pittsburgh, PA
9/17/1953 – 6/7/1955: Catholic University, Washington, DC (Studies)
7/8/1954 – 9/1/1954: St. Leocadia Parish, Wilmerding, PA
6/16/1955 – 3/13/1964: Diocesan Charities
3/14/1964 – 12/16/1973: Madonna of Czestochowa, New Castle, PA
12/17/1973: Resigned
Summary: A 64 -year -old female reported to the Diocese of Pittsburgh in 2016 that she was sexually abused by Lewandowski when she was approximately 12 and in sixth grade. The incident occurred when he was assigned to Madonna of Czestochowa. The woman recalled walking upstairs in the rectory with Lewandowski. She was wearing a yellow dress and recalled his erect penis and semen on her dress. He said to her, “You are a dirty little girl, aren’t you?” The Diocese informed her that the Lawrence County District Attorney’s Office would need to be contacted. The Diocese reimbursed her for the cost of years of therapy.
John P. Maloney
5/27/1964 – 6/01/1971: Nativity of Our Lord, Pittsburgh, PA
6/02/1971 – 9/30/1973: St. Phillip, Pittsburgh, PA
10/01/1973 – 2/04/1979: St. Kieran, Pittsburgh, PA
2/05/1979 – 10/12/1982: St. Michael, Pittsburgh, PA
10/13/1982 – 9/03/2004: Holy Sepulcher, Butler, PA
Summary: On January 7, 2004, an adult male reported he had been sexually abused as a child by Maloney beginning when he was in the eighth grade and continuing into his freshman high school year. The man said he had a newspaper delivery route that included the St. Phillip rectory. He said Maloney would sometimes invite him into the rectory to sit and talk. This usually occurred around 5:30-6 a.m. The male reported that during these times together, Maloney would take photographs of him, first fully clothed but eventually in his underwear. The man said he began delivering papers at 3 a.m. to avoid Maloney. He said sometimes Maloney still invited him into the rectory. The man said he eventually told his mother, who did not believe the abuse allegations.
On Jan. 9, 2004, Maloney was placed on administrative leave and he resigned as pastor at Holy Sepulcher. On Sept. 3, 2004, Maloney’s priestly faculties were withdrawn.
The victim said he befriended another priest in high school, his freshman religion class teacher “Dom McGee.” He said in his sophomore around 1973 he went to McGee’ s parents home to help McGee paint. While there, he went into the bathroom to use the toilet while McGee was in the shower. McGee became extremely upset, got out of the shower, grabbed him, pulled his pants down and masturbated him. McGee then said, “Now how do you like that, don’t you ever walk in on me again!”
On Jan. 15, 2004, the man’s brother reported he had been abused by McGee on one occasion while sitting on the couch. He stated that he fell asleep and awoke to find McGee groping his genitals.
Julius May
No employment history given
Summary: In May 2011, an adult male reported when he was a student at North Catholic High School during the 1963-1964 school year, he had developed a medical condition known as orchitis which is a form of mumps that settles in the testicles. He stated that May, who was a counselor at the high school, demanded to conduct a medical examination of his genitals. He refused and left May’s office.
In May 2014, a 66-year-old male reported that he was inappropriately touched on the leg by May when he was a student at North Catholic High School during the 1962-1963 school year. He said the principal, when informed, passed off the experience as May just being friendly.
Dominic McGee
Employment history unknown
Summary: The grand jury was provided little to no information on McGee. Three internal Diocese of Pittsburgh memorandums revealed that in January 2004 a sexual allegation was made against McGee wherein an adult male alleged that McGee masturbated him when he was a high school student in the early- to mid-1970s at Canevin High School in Allegheny County. The male’s younger brother further advised that McGee groped his genitals while he slept on a couch. The allegations were forwarded to the Allegheny County District Attorney’s Office.
Donald W. McIlvane
6/26/1952-6/12/1957: Parochial Vicar, St. Stephen, Pittsburgh, PA
6/13/1957-10/31/1960: Parochial Vicar, St. Paul Cathedral, Pittsburgh, PA
11/01/1960-6/26/1962: Parochial Vicar, Resurrection, Pittsburgh, PA
6/27/1962-4/20/1966: Chaplain Correctional Institution, Allegheny County Jail
4/21/1966-6/07/1976: Administrator, St. Richard, Pittsburgh, PA
6/08/1976-11/22/1985: Pastor, Corpus Christi, Pittsburgh, PA
11/23/1985-6/01/1992: Pastor, Presentation of Virgin Mary, Midland, PA
6/01/1992-12/01/1992: Sabbatical at St. John Fisher, Pittsburgh, PA
12/01/1992-1/22/1993: Awaiting Assignment at St. John Fisher, Pittsburgh, PA
1/22/1993-6/27/1994: Parochial Vicar (Part-time), St. John Fisher, Pittsburgh, PA
6/27/1994-12/30/1994: Chaplain, Motherhouse at Sisters of Divine Providence, Allison Park, PA
9/29/2008-12/15/2008: Leave of Absence
Summary: On July 22, 2008, a 43-year-old man reported that in 1973 he was in the third grade at St. Richard’s and served as an altar boy. One day he was not feeling well and McIIvane escorted him up to a bedroom in the rectory. After he lay down, McIIvane began to rub his stomach and thighs, then started to rub his penis through his clothing. McIIvane then unzipped his pants and performed oral sex on him. He said Mcllvane gave him $5. The male reported that between 1973 and 1977, McIIvane performed oral sex on him at least 40 times per year and that he was always paid afterwards with money from the parish donations.
On Sept. 9, 2008, the Diocese provided the male with $5,000 to help him through some additional financial difficulties. The money was not intended to be considered as any type of reimbursement or “settlement” related to his claim. A month later, the Diocesan Review Board met and reviewed the allegations. The Board determined that the allegation could not be substantiated because the information was inconclusive and unable to be verified. The Board then recommended Mcllvane be restored to priestly ministry.
Thomas McKenna
5/31/1972 – 5/21/1973: Parochial Vicar, St. Anselm, Swissvale, PA
5/22/1973 – 2/13/1978: Parochial Vicar, Immaculate Conception, Washington, PA
2/14/1978 – 10/01/1978: Chaplain, Marian Manor Nursing
10/02/1978 – 2/04/1979: Parochial Vicar, St. Maurice, Forest Hills, PA
11/01/1978 – 2/04/1979: Leave of absence, Health reasons
2/05/1979 – 8/15/1982: Parochial Vicar, St. Kieran, Lawrenceville, PA
8/16/1982 – 5/31/1984: Parochial Vicar, St. John Fisher, Churchill, PA
6/01/1984 – 9/11/1986: Parochial Vicar, Holy Innocents, Sheraden, PA
9/12/1986 – 7/21/1987: Chaplain, Sewickley Valley Hospital, PA
7/22/1987 – 8/22/1988: Chaplain, Forbes Regional Hospital, PA
8/22/1988 – 5/23/1994: Pastor, St. Edward, Blawnox, PA
5/23/1994 – 1/05/1998: Pastor, Our Lady of Fatima, Hopewell, PA
1/05/1998 – 7/31/1998: Chaplain, SCI Pittsburgh, PA
8/31/1998 – 10/30/1998: Asst. Chaplain, Allegheny University Medical Center, PA
10/30/1998: Administrator, St. Patrick – St. Stanislaus, Pittsburgh, PA
9/13/2004: Withdrew from active priestly ministry
Summary: Two teenage brothers claimed to have been sexually assaulted by McKenna in the 1970s. An October 1996 Diocesan memorandum documented that McKenna was confronted with several allegations of improper sexual activity. On Oct.18, 1999, a lawsuit was filed against McKenna by an inmate incarcerated at the State Correctional Institution at Pittsburgh alleging McKenna had sexually assaulted him while he was in prison. In May 2002, the Diocese of Pittsburgh received a report from a woman who stated that McKenna had sexually abused her son in 1975. No other documentation was found in the file.
In December 2004, a final summary of treatment for McKenna was diagnosed with Ephebophilia, an attraction to teenagers.
Albert McMahon
7/05/1961- 7/01/1964: Team Ministry at St. Pamphilus, Beechview, PA
Unknown – 9/14/1967: Parochial Vicar at Our Lady Help of Christians, Pittsburgh, PA
Unknown – 2004: Province of the Immaculate Conception, New York
10/2004: Removed from active ministry
Summary: On April 22, 2004, a 54-year-old female reported she was sexually abused by McMahon when she was approximately 11. She explained that she went to St. Pamphilus to play and “Father Albert” always showed her a lot of attention. She said that on a few occasions, he would have her sit on his lap and fondle her breasts and genitals. She noted that McMahon smelled of alcohol.
On Jan. 10, 2014, a 63-year-old male reported that in the mid-1960s, when he was approximately 11 to 14, he served as an altar boy at St. Pamphilus. He stated that “Father Albert” would invite the altar boys to his room on Saturdays to wrestle. The man said, to the best of his knowledge, Father Albert would always invite the boys to wrestle with him individually, never in a group. The male reported that when they would wrestle, McMahon would always get on top of him and that McMahon would always have an erection.
On Feb. 5, 2014, a 64-year-old male reported that when he was approximately 12 to 13 he would wrestle with McMahon. He recalled that McMahon would have an erect penis and would attempt to put it in his “behind.”
No information could be located within McMahon’s files as to whether McMahon was confronted with the allegations.
John J. McMahon
12/05/1940-1/14/1942: Parochial Vicar, Holy Family, Latrobe, PA
1/15/1942-6/17/1953: Parochial Vicar, St. Mary Mercy, Pittsburgh, PA
1/15/1942-6/17/1953: CCD Assistant, St. Mary Mercy, Pittsburgh, PA
6/18/1953-6/12/1957: Parochial Vicar, St. John the Baptist, Pittsburgh, PA
6/13/1957-2/19/1958: Parochial Vicar, St. Sylvester, Brentwood, PA
2/20/1958-1/19/1960: Parochial Vicar, St. Peter, Pittsburgh, PA
1/20/1960-6/07/1960: Parochial Vicar, St. Catherine, Pittsburgh, PA
6/08/1960-6/14/1970: Pastor, North American Martyr, Monroeville, PA
6/15/1970-6/30/1984: Pastor, Resurrection, Pittsburgh, PA
6/30/1984: Retired
Summary: On June 14, 2004, a therapist and her client, an adult female, met with representatives of the diocese. The female explained that between 1969 and 1976 she was molested by McMahon and another priest whose name was redacted from the grand jury report. She advised that her recollection of the events was not completely clear but she estimated that it occurred when she was 7 to 15 years old. She stated that the molestation took place on the second floor of the rectory where the two priests maintained private residences. She could recall being with McMahon when he was naked. McMahon encouraged her to touch him in inappropriate areas of his body. On other occasions, other children were present and McMahon encouraged them to touch each other.
The female reported that the abuse by McMahon and the other priest progressed over time from touching and fondling to sexual intercourse.
Frank Meder
Marianist Community. No other employment history listed.
Summary: On Aug. 1, 2011, an adult female reported that Brother Meder inappropriately touched her in the late 1950s when she was approximately 8 or 9. She said Meder would invite the Troy Hill neighborhood children into the North Catholic High School to give them leftovers from the cafeteria such as drinks or candy. She stated that she followed Meder into his office and sat on his lap. He then fondled her. She stated that this abuse occurred to many children who visited the school.
On April 6, 2014, an adult male reported he also had been abused by Meder when he was approximately 10 or 11 in 1953 or 1954. He said that Meder invited the Troy Hill neighborhood children into North Catholic High School to see his stamp collection on Saturdays. Meder then took each child into his office behind the kitchen and molested them. He reported that this occurred for at least two years. He also reported abuse by Brother Hildebrand.
On May 5, 2014, another adult male reported that between 1955 and 1957 at North Catholic High School, when he was approximately 8 to 10, Meder offered to cut his and his brother’s hair to help his mother save money. During these monthly, Saturday haircuts, Meder would rub the boys’ thighs and smack their buttocks. Meder would then give them a bag of chips and some pop. The man’s brother confirmed this information.
On May 7, 2014 a third adult male reported that in the mid-1960s at North Catholic High School when he was approximately 9 to 10 Meder invited him and other children from the Troy Hill neighborhood into the school where he took each child into his office, one at a time. He reported Meder gave them candy, but only after he spanked them. This occurred on approximately six occasions.
On May 8, 2014, a fourth adult male reported that in 1953 or 1954 when he was 10 or 11, Meder invited the children into North Catholic High School on Saturdays. Meder often gave the children pop and candy. He would then line the children up, and have them take turns sitting on his lap in a rocking chair in his office. The man recalled that as a child, he “always wondered what was in Brother Franks’ pants.” When he got older, he realized that Frank had an erection. He also provided information about abuse by Brother Keegan.
Redacted – pending litigation
The name of the priest, where he served and the exact incident was entirely redacted in the grand jury report.
Arthur R. Merrell
Not specified Chaplain, Allegheny County Jail and Shuman Juvenile Detention Center
2/20/1998 Resigned
Summary: In September 1997, the diocese received a report that Merrell had inappropriately touched a boy under the age of 15. Merrell admitted to the inappropriate sexual act and withdrew from the priestly ministry in February 1998. The Diocese did not forward the information to the Allegheny County District Attorney’s Office.
In a confidential memorandum dated July 2014, Merrell minimized his inappropriate actions with minors and asked the diocese for money. The diocese granted Merrell’s request for a “charitable gift of money” in the sum of $5,000.
Redacted – pending litigation
The name of the priest, where he served and the exact incident was entirely redacted in the grand jury report.
Joseph Mueller
7/05/1983 – 7/14/1984: Parochial Vicar, St. Bernard, Mt. Lebanon, PA
7/15/1984 – 6/16/1986: Parochial Vicar, Holy Spirit, West Mifflin, PA
6/16/1986 – 1/22/1987: In Residence, Cardinal Wright Center
1/23/1987 – 2/1988: St. John’s Hospital, Ministry
11/29/1988 – 2/24/2003: Administrative Leave
2/24/2003: Withdrew from Active Ministry
Summary: In April 1986, a young man advised that when he was approximately 13 to 14, Mueller attempted to remove or pull down his shorts on several occasions. This occurred when he stayed overnight with Mueller at the Holy Spirit rectory.
In December 1986, in a letter to the diocese, medical staff stated that they stood by their recommendation Mueller “not work with children or adolescents.” As of November 1988, Mueller’s faculties were withdrawn.
Lawrence O’Connell
7/03/1930-7/21/1948 (sic): Parochial Vicar, Annunciation, North Side, PA
1/04/1940-7/23/1941: Administrator, Annunciation, North Side, PA
3/10/1946-3/27/1946: Vicar ENC, Annunciations, North Side, PA
7/22/1948-10/16/1948: Vicar ENC PRO TEM, Master Dolorosa, Chicora, PA
10/16/1948-6/25/1952: Pastor, Master Dolorosa, Chicora, PA
6/26/1952-6/28/1983: Pastor, St. Gabriel, Whitehall, PA
6/29/1983: Resigned
Summary: On Jan. 7, 2004, an adult female alleged that O’Connell sexually abused her on numerous occasions when she was approximately 11 to 13. She stated that she and a friend worked in the rectory at St. Gabriel on Mondays, counting the loose change from the Sunday services. She stated that O’Connell would ask her to stay behind and then invite her into his office where he would touch her inappropriately, French-kiss her and have her perform oral sex on him.
She reported that the abuse occurred once a week for over a year. O’Connell told her; “You are special and this is our special time together.” He also told her not to tell anyone about their secret because otherwise it would not be special anymore. Additionally, he told her he loved her.
She stated that she remembers the feeling of dread that she had on Sunday nights knowing that she would be subjected to the sexual abuse the next day. Although she told her parents about the abuse many years later, they did not pursue the subject.
On April 28, 2004, a local reporter who had been a member of O’Connell’s parish confirmed that she was among his victims.
Thomas M. O’Donnell
6/1960-5/1964: St. Kieran, Lawrenceville, PA
5/1964-6/1966: St. John the Evangelist, Pittsburgh, PA
6/1966-8/1971: St. Norbert, Pittsburgh, PA
9/1971-4/1975: St. Clare, Clairton, PA
5/1975-6/1983: Annunciation, Pittsburgh, PA
6/1983-7/2000: St. Wendelin, Carrick, PA
7/2000-9/2001: St. Maximilian Kolbe, Homestead, PA
9/2001-11/2005: St. John Vianney, Pittsburgh, PA
11/2005-8/2006: St. Cyril of Alexandria, Pittsburgh, PA
8/2006-7/2014 St. Mary of Mercy, Pittsburgh, PA
7/2014 – Present Epiphany, Pittsburgh, PA
Summary: In 1988, parents complained to administrators at St. Wendelin that O’Donnell was requiring boys, who were around the age of 12, to shower after basketball games and get weighed while nude. Many parents expressed displeasure that all of this was occurring while O’Donnell was present in the locker room and shower areas. Administrators told O’Donnell not to be in the locker room in the future.
In early December 1988, O’Donnell was informed of the complaints against him and ordered to disassociate himself from the supervision of the athletic programs. O’Donnell also was directed to inform his coaching staff that showers and weigh-ins were not mandatory.
From late December 1988 through mid-March 2002, parents continued to report to the Diocese that O’Donnell had engaged in inappropriate behavior with children. That included allegations of sharing beds with students while on trips, holding sexual conversations and having a male student wash O’Donnell’s dog while nude.
O’Donnell continued to violate a diocese order not to have any contact with children.
In January 2014, O’Donnell requested permission to attend a memorial mass performed by the United States Navy. The Navy required that a diocesan representative provide a letter of good standing in order to attend. The diocese provided a letter of good standing and a form indicating O’Donnell’s files had been reviewed and that “No accusations of misconduct have ever been made against him, nor has he ever been involved in any incident, to my knowledge, which has led to potential or public scandal;” and “To the best of my knowledge, he has never engaged in sexual behavior inconsistent with priestly celibacy, nor has he ever acted in an inappropriate manner with minors.”
William P. O’Malley, III
6/15/1970-5/23/1973: Assistant, St. Jerome, Charleroi, PA
5/22/1973-9/14/1978: Assistant, St. Canice, Pittsburgh (Knoxville), PA
9/15/1978-3/28/1982: Assistant, St. Francis de Sales, McKees Rocks, PA
3/29/1982-11/15/1985: Assistant, St. Paul, Butler, PA
11/16/1985-8/24/1992: Pastor, St. Conrad, Meridian, PA
8/25/1992-8/10/1995: Auditor-Assessor Tribunal, Diocese of Pittsburgh
8/11/1995-6/29/1997: Pastor at Devine Mercy, Beaver Falls, PA
6/30/1997-12/14/1997: Pastor at St. Irenaeus, Oakmont, PA
12/15/1997-11/15/1998: Requested Leave of Absence for Personal Reasons
11/16/1998-5/18/2003: Canonical Consultant Tribunal, Diocese of Pittsburgh
5/19/2003: Withdrawn from active Priestly Ministry
Summary: On April 21, 1991, the Diocese received a complaint that O’Malley was having young people spend too much time at the St. Conrad rectory. On this same date, two ministers relayed allegations that O’Malley had given an underage boy numerous gifts, including remote control cars, electronic devices, use of O’Malley’s credit card, and at least one trip to the Bahamas. O’Malley denied any wrongdoing.
An audit discovered that O’Malley and a teenager had a joint bank account together and that the boy stayed at the rectory and was the primary user of new guest furniture that had been purchased by O’Malley.
On Dec. 23, 1993, an adult male reported that he was sexually assaulted by O’Malley when he was approximately 22. On December 12, 1997, an adult male advised that he was sexually abused by O’Malley in 1978 when he was approximately 11 to 12. He stated that O’Malley provided him with alcohol and then, after he went to bed, O’Malley got into bed with him, removed his shorts, and fondled his genitals.
In December 1997, O’Malley was granted a leave of absence and sent for treatment.
On Jan. 12, 1998, a confidential memorandum advised that O’Malley was given a diagnosis of “ephebophilia,” based on his admitted sexual interest in adolescents and that O’Malley was at a high risk for seeking emotional gratification with adolescents.
On Feb. 12, 1998, a letter was sent from a psychiatrist regarding O’Malley noted that O’Malley “describes no sexual interest or experiences with any youngster who was not a teenager” and that “the incidents that occurred number 5 or less, were never repeated with the same individual, and never included anything more than touching with his hands.” The doctor further stated that no sexual activity with minors had reoccurred since 1982 and that O’Malley should be allowed to return to his ministry.
On Feb. 20, 1998, a confidential letter advised that during treatment O’Malley stated that he had a fantasy for “well-built 16-, 17- or 18-year-olds,” along with a continued overinvolvement with youth, and an inappropriate preoccupation with things that attract youth.
From April 5, 2002 to Jan. 13, 2006, six additional victims independently came forward to report that they were sexually assaulted by O’Malley. Three advised they were sexually abused in the 1970s when their ages ranged from 8 to 14. The three remaining victims advised that they were sexually assaulted in the mid-1990s and as recently as 1999. These three victims ranged in age from 11 to 17.
Ernest Paone
No further information on Paone was listed in the grand jury report.
George Parme
7/22/1948 – 2/6/1952: St. Peter, Butler, PA
2/7/1952 – 1/30/1957: St. Aloysius, Wilmerding, PA
1/31/1957 – 8/11/1958: Presentation BVM, Midland, PA
8/12/1958 – 10/15/1958: No Assignment
10/16/1958 – 1/19/1960: Most Holy Name, Troy Hill
1/20/1960 – 6/7/1960: No Assignment, in residence at St. Patrick, Strip District
6/8/1960 – 10/13/1963: St. Catherine, Beechview, PA
10/14/1963 – 12/13/1963: St. Agnes, Oakland, PA
12/14/1963 – 5/26/1964: St. Joseph, North Side, PA
5/27/1964 – 1/30/1968: Mt. Nazareth Academy, Bellevue, PA
1/31/1968 – 11/17/1969: Mother of Good Council, Brushton, PA
11/18/1969 – 11/14/1974: St. Louis and St. Pascal, Argentine
11/15/1974 – 6/19/1989: St. Cecilia, Glassport, PA
Summary: According to a lawsuit, the victim served as an altar boy at St. Aloysius. In 1954, when the victm was approximately 13 years old, Parme fondled his genitals while he was getting dressed before mass in the sacristy. It was also alleged that abuse occurred in Parme’ s car. The abuse continued for one year.
The Diocese agreed to pay a total amount of $1.25 Million to 31 plaintiffs in the lawsuit.
Paul E. Pindel
6/21/1951-12/03/1952: St. Stanislaus, Ambridge, PA
12/04/1952-12/16/1953: St. John Cantius, Sharpsburg, PA
12/17/1953-6/12/1957: St. Robert Bellarmine, E. McKeesport, PA
6/13/1957-6/09/1959: Holy Family, Pittsburgh, PA
6/10/1059-12/07/1960: Holy Angels, Hays, PA
12/08/1960-6/06/1966: St. William, E. Pittsburgh, PA
6/07/1966-3/27/1969: St. Martin, Pittsburgh, PA
3/28/1969-11/01/1971: St. Rose of Lima, Darlington, St. Ann, New Galilee
11/02/1971-10/13/1973: Chaplain, Gilmary School, Coraopolis, PA
10/14/1973-12/09/1985: St. Genevieve, Canonsburg, PA
12/10/1985-7/06/1989: St. Hyacinth, Pittsburgh, PA
7/06/1989-2/26/1991: Leave of Absence (Brain Tumor)
Summary: In April 2012, an adult male alleged Pindel inappropriately touched him when he was between 13 and 15 from 1957 through 1960 in Allegheny County and Butler County. The victim also recalled going to a drive-in where Pindel performed oral sex on him. Even after Pindel was transferred, he would continue to go to the victim’s house, take the victim places and often give the victim money.
In May 2003, the Diocese received an allegation that Pindel engaged in inappropriate sexual contact with a minor who was an eighth grade student at St. William around 1965. According to the victim, once he entered high school, Pindel had senior boys threaten and beat him up so that he would not disclose the prior sexual contact. According to the victim, he attempted several times to discuss what happened to him but was told it would never go anywhere because they would believe a priest over a boy. The victim attempted to talk to another priest and was told that he should be ashamed of himself.
In August 2011, it was reported that Pindel engaged in inappropriate sexual contact with a minor between the ages of 6 and 9 between 1980 and 1984 in Washington County. The victim stated that the abuse began when he was 6. He related that he would be pulled out of class by Pindel and taken to the rectory where he would be sexual assaulted.
Pittsburgh Priest #1
Omitted
Summary: In 2004, a priest had a discussion with a TV reporter who said they were preparing to do a story about a World War II veteran who said he was sexually abused by a priest 70 years earlier. While the priest was never mentioned in the memorandum, he did state that the priest in question died in 1958.
Francis Pucci
6/13/1957: Parochial Vicar, St. Vitus, New Castle, PA
11/29/1961: Parochial Vicar, Our Lady of Mount Carmel, Braddock, PA
6/17/1962: Parochial Vicar, St. Vitus, New Castle, PA
5/13/1965: Parochial Vicar, St. Mary, McKeesport, PA
6/07/1966: Parochial Vicar, Epiphany, Uptown, PA
6/10/1968: Headmaster, Lawrenceville Catholic
3/28/1969: South Side Catholic, Consolidation
6/15/1970: Administration, St. Januarius, Renton, PA
5/22/1972: Pastor, St. Eugene, Liberty Boro, PA
7/02/1973: Pastor, Purification, Ellwood City, PA
10/06/1980: Pastor, St. Joseph, Coraopolis, PA
9/30/1981: Pastor, St. Alphonsus, McDonald, PA
7/01/1984: Pastor, Our Lady of Lourdes, Burgettstown, PA
2/15/1987: Pastor, Immaculate Conception, Washington, PA
10/29/1987: Leave of Absence, Health reasons
2/10/1992: Retired
Summary: Pucci was named in the following allegations:
In 2002, a man revealed that Pucci fondled him to the point of ejaculation in 1962.
In 2004, a man said Pucci inappropriately touched him in 1988. This occurred when he was a minor.
In 2007, a man reported Pucci engaged in inappropriate sexual touching with him when he was a minor at a church in Corapolis.
In November 2014, a man said Pucci touched him sexually in 1981 and 1982 at a church in Corapolis. He was an altar server during that time, and Pucci would instruct him to wear either nothing or jock straps underneath his cassocks.
In December 2014, another man said Pucci sexually touched him when he was a minor around 1981 and 1982 at a church in Allegheny County.
In May 2016, Washington County District Attorney’s Office received a report from an anonymous man who said Pucci touched him sexually in 1983 at a church in McDonald.
In October 2016, a man reported Pucci sexually touched him while at a church in Coraopolis in 1980.
John W. Rebel
5/13/1965 – 6/6/1967: St. Bernard, Mt. Lebanon, PA
6/7/1967 – 8/27/1967: St. Veronica, Ambridge, PA
8/28/1967 – 9/19/1968: St. Joseph, Verona, PA
9/20/1968 – 5/22/1973: St. Michael, Elizabeth, PA
5/23/1973 – 8/15/1974: Leave of Absence
6/8/1973 – 8/15/1974: St. Kieran, Lawrenceville, PA
8/16/1974 – 11/4/1976: Assumption, Bellevue, PA
11/5/1976 – 6/29/1981: St. Margaret Mary, Moon Township, PA
6/30/1981 – 7/7/1982: St. Anselm, Swissvale, PA
7/8/1982 – 7/2/2001: St. Killian, Mars, PA
7/2/2001 – 6/15/2002: St. Bartholomew, Penn Hills, PA, Sabbatical Second Semester of 2001-2002
1/15/2002 – 7/3/2002: Sabbatical at North American College in Rome
7/3/2002 – 9/1/2010: St. James the Apostle, Bedford, PA
Summary: The diocese received a report that Rebel molested a boy in a boy’s bedroom when he was 10 or 12 years old in the 1970s following a home mass. In 2009, the diocese met with the parents of the victim, who said that their son (now deceased) told them of the abuse years after it happened.
They stated that Rebel would often drive their son home after CCD and, while the parents didn’t know what was going on in the rides, it became clear from their son’s level of emotion that sexual abuse may have occurred.
Later in 2009, Rebel met with the diocese about the allegations, and he said that while he remembered the parents, he didn’t remember the children nor having a home mass.
In May 2009, the parents met with Bishop Zubik, who told the parents he spoke to Rebel and heard his denial. Zubik felt that Rebel was telling the truth, and while Zubik believed what the son had alleged, he felt that perhaps the abuse was committed by another priest.
After reviewing church records, it was in all likelihood that another priest was the parish priest at the time when the abuse occurred, and advised that the church would conduct more research.
Based on the files presented, it did not appear any further investigation was conducted.
Raymond R. Rhoden
11/05/1976-7/07/1982: Parochial Vicar, Nativity of Our Lord, Pittsburgh, PA
7/08/1982-6/21/1989: Parochial Vicar, St. Francis of Assisi, Finleyville, PA
8/25/1988-6/21/1989: Chaplain, part-time, Monongahela Valley Catholic High School,
Monongahela, PA
6/21/1989-10/05/1992: Chaplain, part-time, Our Lady of Sacred Heart High School,
Coraopolis, PA
6/21/1989-10/05/1992: Parochial Vicar, St. Joseph, Coraopolis, PA
10/05/1992-10/26/1992: Administrator, St. Philip Neri, Donora, PA
10/26/1992-6/30/1997: Team Ministry -Moderator, Our Lady of the Valley, Donora, PA
6/30/1997-5/17/2002: Pastor, St. James, Sewickley, PA
5/17/2002: Administrative Leave
7/05/2002: Withdrew from active priestly ministry; Retired
Summary: In 2002, the parents of an adult male met with diocesan officials in Pittsburgh to report that their son was sexually abused by Rhoden between 1976 and 1977. Rohden was considered a family friend, and that he spent a lot of time at their home. The son informed them that Rhoden fondled him and performed oral sex over a number of months when he was 16 or 17 years old.
The parents said they spoke to Bishop McDowell about the sexual abuse, and he told them that he would take care of the allegations. However, they never heard from him again.
Carl Roemele
5/1963-5/1964: St. Joseph, Mt. Oliver, PA
5/1964-6/1966: St. Alexis, Wexford, PA
6/1966-8/1967: St. William, Pittsburgh, PA
8/1967-5/1972: St. Joseph, Duquesne, PA
5/1972-9/1975: St. Agatha, Bridgeville, PA
9/1975-2/1976: Allegheny Community College, Pittsburgh, PA
9/1975-2/1976: Epiphany, Pittsburgh, PA
9/1975-2/1976: Allegheny County Jail, Pittsburgh, PA
2/1976-8/1976: Leave of absence; voluntary laicization
Summary: The diocese received a letter in June 1967 that revealed Roemele was engaged in sexual misconduct with four different young boys. The woman said Roemele made sexual advances toward her son, his friend and then another boy in a separate incident. She said that while at a camp site, Roemele told him a fourth boy to shower after swimming. Roemele then entered the shower, and when Roemele dropped the soap, he tried to bite the boy.
In mid-August 2004, another man said he was abused by Roemele while an altar boy at St. Joseph. He said Roemele would grope and fondle him and two other altar servers before mass. The victim said the abuse would last about 20 to 30 minutes each time, over the course of a year.
In October 2010, the diocese received a phone call from a mother who said her son was sexually abused by Roemele when he was 10. Roemele would take them to a cabin she referred to as “Mo’s cabin.” She explained that her son died in 2003 after complications from alcoholism, adding that he began drinking in 1969 when he was just 10 years old.
When confronted in early 2009 about some of the allegations, Roemele ultimately denied all of them, saying that they likely misinterpreted his actions towards them as sexually abusive and they were not meant in that way.
Michael C. Romero
10/13/1977-2/23/1978: Parochial Vicar, North American Martyrs, Monroeville, PA
2/24/1978-7/07/1982: Parochial Vicar, Immaculate Conception, Washington, PA
7/08/1982-6/02/1985: Parochial Vicar, St. Veronica, Ambridge, PA
6/03/1985-3/15/1990: Parochial Vicar, St. Basil, Carrick, PA
3/15/1990-6/17/2000: Leave of Absence
Summary: The first allegation of abuse came in 2013. The diocese received a phone call from a woman who said her boyfriend was sexually abused by Romero when he was assigned to Immaculate Conception. The woman said her boyfriend’s mother contacted the diocese to report the abuse, but no report about the allegation was made at that time.
The mother told the diocese and said that Romero bought her son all kinds of gifts, including a ski jacket.
In 2013, the son contacted the diocese to report “questionable behavior” from when he was a child. He said that “things” happened, but he was reluctant to talk about anything else. Romero and another priest were often heard talking about masturbation in front of him and the other young boys, the man said.
A 2012 memorandium included information about a second abuse allegation against Romero, who said he was sexually abused by Romero while at Immaculate Conception. No other information about that victim was provided.
Oswald E. Romero
1955-1965: St. Francis Borja HS, Quito, Ecuador
1961-1965: Jesuit College & University, Quito, Ecuador
1961-1965: Catholic University, Quito, Ecuador
1966-1977: University of Pittsburgh
1977-1993: Chaplin, St. Joseph House of Hospitality, Pittsburgh, PA
1993: Retired
1991-1997: St. Mary of Mercy, (Confessor), Pittsburgh, PA
Summary: In April 2006, a 53-year-old man accused Romero of sexually abusing him between the ages of 13 and 14 (1966 or 1967). The victim attended St. Regis in Oakland and was familiar with Romero, where Romero assisted from time to time. The victim said that during a driving lesson, Romero had the victim sit on his lap, but he was driven home without incident. During a second lesson, Romero began to run his leg and eventually his genitals. Romero proceeded to perform oral sex on him. After the incident, he jumped out of the car and fled home.
David Scharf
6/03/1985: Parochial Vicar, St. Michael Archangel, Butler, PA
6/15/1987: Parochial Vicar, Our Lady of Grace, Scott Township, PA
2/11/1992: Parochial Vicar, Our Lady of Fatima, Hopewell Township, PA
1/27/1997: Parochial Vicar, St. Robert Bellarmine, East McKeesport, PA
8/31/1998: Sabbatical
1/20/1999: Parochial Vicar, St. Hugh, Carmichaels, PA
12/13/1999: Pastor, St. Philomena, Beaver Falls, PA
11/21/2003: Leave of Absence
8/17/2009: Chaplain, Sisters of St. Joseph, Baden, PA
Summary: In 2002, several boys and men complained of Scharf massaging their feet. In 2003, Scharf requested a leave of absence to attend St. Luke Institute for evaluation in order to “end accusations. He was granted that. In 2005, the staff noted his discharge from a halfway house that he did not successfully complete the program and was at a high risk for re-offending. In 2007 and 2008, he wrote requests to be re-instated into the ministry, but both requests were denied.
Richard Scherer
6/30/1949 – 6/09/1954: Assistant, St. Charles, Donora
6/10/1954 – 3/03/1964: Assistant, St. Anne, Castle Shannon
3/04/1964 – 2/02/1965: Assistant, St. Coleman, Turtle Creek
2/03/1965 – 6/1965: Assistant, St. Patrick, Canonsburg, PA
6/1965 – 5/1968: Sick Leave
5/1968 – 1992: Chaplain, Holy Cross Hospital, Diocese of Miami, FL
1992: Retired
Summary: Diocese records show that in August 1991, a woman reported that she was sexually molested by Scherer when she was a student at St. Anne between 1957 and 1961. A letter dated 1965, Scherer wrote of his “revelation” of his nervous breakdown resulting from the “relationship” with the woman.
Raymond T. Schultz
7/17/1947-1/19/1949: St. Mary, Kittaning, PA
1/20/1949-6/28/1950: St. Leonard, Monessen, PA
6/29/1950-6/15/1955: Holy Rosary, Homewood, PA
6/16/1955-6/12/1957: St. Margaret, Greentree, PA
6/13/1957-4/20/1966: Catholic Information Center, Diocese,
12/29/1964-4/20/1966: St. Richard, Pittsburgh, PA
4/21/1966-1/22/1997: Pastor, SS Peter & Paul, Beaver, PA
1/22/1997-10/15/1999: ADM, SS Peter & Paul, Beaver, PA
Summary: In 2009, a man reported that around 1978, he was sexually abused at a school in Beaver. The man’s mother and father were not aware of the abuse until it was reported in 2009. The victim’s mother indicated that she recalled an incident where she was doing laundry and discovered her son’s underwear was in the pocket of his pants. The son told her that he had an accident and she did not ask further questions.
In 2010, a psychologist reported seeing the victim since 2007 and treated him for PTSD symptoms. The victim reported dreams of the sensation of breath on the back of his neck from when Schultz was sexually assaulting him. He also recalled a particularly distressing incident of anal penetration by Schultz that occurred on a rainy day when his clothes were wet.
Francis Siler
5/20/1963: Parochial Vicar, Nativity, Broughton, PA
6/15/1970: Parochial Vicar St. Bernard, Mt Lebanon, PA
12/06/1972: Parochial Vicar, St. Titus, Aliquippa, PA
8/08/1974: Leave of Absence
5/21/1975: Parochial Vicar, St. Catherine, Wildwood, PA
10/11/1976: Pastor, St. Margaret, New Castle, PA
2/08/1983: Pastor, St. Catherine, Wildwood, PA
5/12/1984: Parochial Vicar, St. Agnes, West Mifflin, PA
7/01/1985: Leave of Absence, Health Reasons
2/24/1986: Chaplain, Allegheny Valley Hospital, PA
9/27/1987: Parochial Vicar, St. Mary Mercy, Pittsburgh, PA
2/25/2002: Leave of Absence
7/05/2002: Withdrew from Active Ministry
Summary: A diocesan record of Siler revealed a reference in a clinic report that “sexual problems with adolescents” had occurred in 1972, which caused Bishop Leonard to change Silers assignment. In 1974, Leonard wrote in a letter that “in the last three years, the problem arose about which I spoke to you in a phone conversation.”
A 1985 memorandum to another bishop from a priest said that Siler “made a pass at a young boy whose father is a policeman. The irate father was about to take the matter to court. It was this that necessitated our quick removal of Siler from the post.”
In 1994, a man came to see Siler to confront him about molesting him as a child. After the confrontation, Siler required hospitalization for suicidal feelings.
In 1995, a man reported that Siler fondled him on several occasions when he was ana ltar boy in the second or third grade. Siler denied the allegations.
In 2002, another allegation was made against Siler. A man said that Siler touched him inappropriately when he was a child between 1972 and 1973.
In 2011, another man reported Siler groped and fondled him through his clothes between 1972 and 1974 at a Beaver County church.
Rudolph M. Silvers
5/21/1975-5/18/1980: Parochial Vicar, St. Sylvester, Pittsburgh, PA
5/19/1980-7/07/1982: Parochial Vicar, St. Robert Bellarmine, East McKeesport, PA
7/08/1982-6/28/1983: Parochial Vicar, St. Canice, Pittsburgh, PA
6/06/1983-6/15/1986: Assist. Dir. Vocation Office, Diocese of Pittsburgh Pastoral Center
6/16/1986-8/01/1986: Parochial Vicar, St. Peter, Butler, PA
8/02/1986-2/07/1994: Pastor, St. Peter, Butler, PA
2/07/1994-6/27/1994: Replacement Ministry, St. Vincent de Paul, New Castle, PA
6/27/1994-2/25/2002: Pastor, St. Ann, Bulger, PA
2/25/2002-7/24/2002: Leave of Absence
7/24/2002: Withdrawn from service
Summary: Silvers is accused in multiple abuse cases:
In 1988, an 18-year-old man reported Silvers fondled him when he was between the ages of 12 and 15. The victim said Silvers had sexually fondled him and “taken advantage of him.” He said he felt overwhelmed and that people did not believe him. In 2002, Silvers was confronted with the allegations and he denied sexual contact. When confronted with the fact that the victim traveled to St. Anne’s to confront him, Silvers became vague and evasive.
In 1990, a mother met with a priest to express her concerns with Silvers inappropriate and unnatural attachment to her son. She said Silvers called the son at least three times per week, offered him various gifts, and also stayed overnight at the rectory without parental permission.
In a file dated July 19, 1991, the priest wrote that he had reviewed the concerns of the mother, but there was never any accusations of sexual behavior. In a notation dated in 2002, Silvers was placed on administrative leave. Silvers later resigned.
In 2012, a man reported that he was sexually abused by Silvers in the mid-late 1970s at St. Sylvester when he was 10 or 11 years old. The man said that Silvers would invite several boys to the rectory on Friday and Saturday evening and that they would go down to the recreation area in the basement to play games. During the visits, he would grab at the boys’ butt and genitals. The man said Silvers would get very excited, and eventually he would take one of the boys up to his private living quarters and be gone for 30 to 45 minutes, returning looking very pale and not talking for the rest of the evening.
Edward P. Smith
Unavailable Sacred Heart Church, Emsworth, PA
Summary: Several legal documents in diocesan records revealed Smith was accused of sexually abusing a 16-year-old girl while at Sacred heart. The abuse included Smith fondled her, and that the girl “believed that it would be sinful or wrong to make any kind of accusation against a priest or a bishop.”
James E. Somma
7/10/1959 – 4/19/1964: Purification of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Ellwood City, PA
4/20/1964 – 5/04/1964: St. Pius V., McKeesport, PA
5/05/1964 – 6/21/1984: Archdiocese for Military Services, Washington, DC
6/22/1984 – 5/11/1985: St. Aloysius, Pittsburgh, PA
5/12/1985 – 1/08/1992: Nativity, Pittsburgh, PA
1/08/1992 – 2/07/1994: Holy Trinity, West Mifflin, PA
2/07/1994 – 2/07/2002: Forbes Regional Hospital- Monroeville & St. Michael, Pitcairn, PA
Summary: In 1986, Father Nicholas Datillo stated that he spoke with a victim who said a priest sexually abused her for seven years. She provided the priest’s name, but the name was not provided in Datillo’s letter. The victim was worried “that the priest was not a pastor and could be out there harming other children.”
When Datillo spoke with two bishops on the matter, he said, “until she gives her name, we have no credible evidence.”
Datillo and another priest met with Somma following another phone call from the victim in 1988, and Datillo concluded that Somma should not be removed from ministry based on his “strong denial, sterling military career, the passage of time and the victim’s admitted psychiatric treatment.”
Somma was evaluated at the St. Luke Institute in February 1988.
In 2002, the victim sent a letter to Datillo saying she was in counseling and had filed a lawsuit. The report said that Somma forced her to engage in oral sex and sexual intercourse with him until her late teens. The lawsuit was dismissed based upon the statue of limitations.
Later in 2002, a second victim said that while watching XXX movies with Somma, Somma placed his hands down his own pants and talked about masturbation. They fell asleep under the covers and Somma “cuddled him like a teddy bear.”
The second victim said Somma had him fly from Ludwig, Illinois to the Pittsburg area, where they would watch pornography and talk about masturbation. The victim said he was sexually abused by Somma, but not molested.”
Bartley A. Sorensen
11/1/1976 – 6/29/1981: St. Ferdinand, Cranberry, PA
6/30/1981 – 6/28/1983: St. Colman, Turtle Creek, PA
6/29/1983 – 1/31/1985: St. James, Sewickley, PA
2/1/1985 – 6/11/1990: St. Valentine, Bethal Park, PA
6/11/1990 – 6/1/1992: Our Lady of the Most Blessed Sacrament
6/1/1992 – 9/1/1995: Mater Dolorosa, Chicora, PA
9/1/1995 – 9/10/1999: St. Joseph, Chicora, PA
9/1/1995 – 9/10/1999: Mater Dolorosa, Chicora, PA
9/10/1999 – 1/27/2003: St. Victor, Bairdford, PA
2/9/2004 – 2/4/2011: West Penn Hospital, Pittsburgh, PA
2/4/2011 – 11/14/2011: St. Ann, Pittsburgh, PA
11/14/2011 – 12/9/2011: St. John Fisher, Pittsburgh, PA
Summary: In December 2001, a woman went into the residence of Sorensen and saw he was looking at child pornography on his computer. She believed that the child was older than five years old, but no more than 10. When she questioned him, he acknowledged it. The woman left and reported it to the diocese.
The diocese then immediately contacted the Allegheny County District Attorney’s Office. Sorensen was arrested that day.
A search of his computer revealed over 5,000 images of child pornography on his computer, as well as on CDs, DVDs and various print books.
Sorenson entered a guilty plea in 2012, and was sentenced to 97 months incarceration, followed by five years of supervised release. He is required to permanently register as a convicted sex offender and pay a $25,000 fine.
Robert E. Spangenberg
1974: Faculty, Holy Ghost Preparatory School, Bensalem, PA
N/A: Associate Pastor, St. Mary Detroit, MI
N/A – 1977: Associate Pastor, St. Anthony Millvale, PA
1977 – 1979: Unknown ministry, North Carolina
1979 – 1980: Assistant Pastor, St. Mary, Sharpsburg, PA
1980 – N/A: Chaplain, St. Francis de Sale High School, Chicago, IL
1982 – 1984: Pastor, St. Stanislaus, Pittsburgh, PA
1984 – 1989: Pastor, St. Anthony, Millvale, PA
1989 – 1990: Superior of the Congregation Retirement home, Sarasota, FL
1990 – 1993: Pastor, St. Patrick, Charleston, SC
1993 – N/A: Administrator, St. Peter Claver, Philadelphia, PA
1994 – N/A: Pastor, St. James, Hamlet, NC
1997 – N/A: Pastor, Epiphany, Pittsburgh, PA
2002: Director of Retirement community, Sarasota, FL
2003: Retired
Summary: Documents provided by the diocese revealed that Spangenberg was involved with at least two children, possibly more. In 1988, a woman wrote the diocese to obtain help for her son, who was abused by Spangenberg and another priest from his order was helping them with counseling. She was upset, noting that the issue was just simply “noted” and she had not heard anyone.
Spangenberg was reassigned to a retirement home in Florida shortly after.
In 1989, an official wrote a letter to one of the boy’s family where he said “excessive use of alcohol contributed significantly to clouding the judgement and perception and further exacerbates the reliability of memory both at the time of the incident,” but acknowledged that he “believed that Father Spangenberg exercised questionable judgement.”
In 2009, a man reported that when he was 15 or 16, he and Spangenberg engaged in many types of sexual encounters. The boy reported that he was involved in street prostitution with young boys known as “Hustlers.” Spangenberg also paid the boy a finder’s fee to help him locate younger hustlers (known as “chickens”) to have sex with Spangenberg.
The boy noted that Spangenberg was a “really sick guy – he would have person urinate and defecate on him.”
Paul G. Spisak
5/22/1973-10/01/1978: St. Mary of the Mount, Pittsburgh, PA
10/02/1978-10/05/1980: St. Benedict the Abbot, McMurray, PA
10/06/1980-11/19/1981: Sacred Heart, Pittsburgh, PA
11/20/1981-6/29/1990: St. Dominic, Donora, PA
6/25/1988-6/29/1990: St. Charles, Donora, PA
6/30/1990-2/07/1994: St. Philip, Pittsburgh, PA
2/07/1994-2/12/1997: St. Andrew, Butler, PA
2/16/1998-10/26/1998: St. Mary, Cecil, PA
7/03/2000-7/11/2002: Chaplain Nursing Home, Allison Park, PA
7/03/2000-7/11/2002: Chaplain Nursing Home, Pittsburgh, PA
5/30/2003: Removed from ministry
Summary: In October 1998, parish staff from St. Dominic reported finding pornographic magazines, tapes and internet material in Spisak’s room that depicted homosexual and sadomasochistic activity. There were also several pictures of Spisak with two different underage boys, including pictures of the boys showing their butt and pictures of Spisak pulling down his and the boy’s pants. Spisak allegedly destroyed these pictures.
A diocesan employee said Spisak had written her a note that he was going to St. Luke’s for evaluations, but that he “hadn’t done anything wrong in the past or in the present.” She said that she started to feel uncomfortable about the attention he gave her son, and that her son would often leave when Spisak was expected to arrive.
In 1998, Spisak admitted to taking the photos sometime between 1981 and 1990, and said they were very innocent and “just for fun.”
Spisak’s evaluation, in a letter from the diocese, diagnosed Spisak as having a sexual disorder, and showed a “significant interest in grade school aged males.”
A psychotherapist for almost two years wrote the diocese in 2002, saying he hoped Spisak’s priestly ministry could be “reestablished in the future.” He added that “allegations of inappropriate sexual contact with a young man who was mentored by Spisak are not only unsubstantiated, but also not highly credible.”
In 2006, Spisak pled guilty to a disorderly conduct charge and had to pay a $300 fine. He was arrested in April 2006 after he was caught recording another man in the rear corner stall of the bathroom. Spisak originally denied having a camera, then faked being ill and ran into the bathroom. A security guard followed Spisak and saw him flush the memory card from the camera down the toilet.
Spisak later admitted to police that he had a “sexual fixation with the male buttocks.”
Lawrence F. Stebler
5/20/1963 – 8/27/1967: St. Hilary, Washington, PA
8/28/1967 – 11/30/1969: Our Lady of Fatima, Hopewell Township, PA
12/1/1969 – 6/13/1988: St. Stephen, Hazelwood, PA
6/14/1988 – 1/1/1996: St. Victor, Bairdford, PA
1/1/1996 – 6/17/1996: Leave of Absence
6/17/1996 – 6/9/1997: St. Theresa of Avila, Perrysville, PA
Summary: The diocese received a report from an adult man that said when he was eight or nine years old, he was sexually abused by Stebler. In a statement, he said “He would then touch my head, eyes, chest, belly, waist and then lower than that… He said my mom and dad said it was OK and that he was blessing my organs.” The victim said this happened for two or three years.
In 2006, the victim’s therapist wrote the diocese saying, the man has had two suicide attempts, several flashbacks, anxiety and panic attacks.
Richard Gerard Terdine
5/13/1965: St. Vitus, New Castle, PA
12/06/1965: St. Scholastica, Aspinwall, PA
9/22/1967: Our Lady of Grace, Scott Township, PA
6/10/1968: St. Lawrence O’Toole, Garfield, PA
6/15/1970: Epiphany, Uptown, Pittsburgh, PA
9/01/1971: Duquesne University, Graduate Assistant, Pittsburgh, PA
5/31/1972: St. Basil, Carrick, PA
8/09/1973: Purification of the Blessed Virgin Mary
5/31/1974: Intermediate Schools Unit, Psychologist
11/22/1986: St. Peter, McKeesport, PA
1/16/1989: Cardinal Wright Center/ Without Assignment
11/06/1989: Leave of Absence
7/02/1990: UPMC Shadyside Hospital, Pittsburgh, PA
6/17/1996: UPMC Presbyterian Hospital, Pittsburgh, PA
7/01/2009: UPMC Shadyside Hospital, Pittsburgh, PA
6/25/2012: Present: St John Vianney Manor, Pittsburgh, PA
Summary: In 2003, an allegation was detailed that in 1988, Terdine touched or patted the genital area of the boy on two-to-three occasions, gave the boy an x-rated video to watch and massaged his back.
Diocesan officials met with Terdine, who denied any sexual touching of the boy, but did admit that he gave the boy the video and the condums because he seemed “naïve about human sexuality” according to the report.
St. Luke’s, in 1990, provided an assessment that said Terdine had “very little risk of acting out sexually.”
The board recommended that Terdine not be assigned to any parish, and he was placed in restricted ministry and assigned as the chaplain to UPMC Hospitals throughout Pittsburgh.
Redacted – pending litigation
The name of the priest, where he served and the exact incident was entirely redacted in the grand jury report.
Charles Thomas
1935 – 1937: St. Killian, Mars, PA
1937 – 1940: St. Peter, Pittsburgh, PA
3/1940 – 11/1940: St. Wendelin, Carrick PA
1940 – 1941: St. Martin, Pittsburgh, PA
1941 – 1944: St. Mary Mercy, Pittsburgh, PA
1944 -1952: St. Coleman, Turtle Creek, PA
1952 -1957: St. Hugh. Carmichaels, PA
1952 -1957: St. Marcullus, Pittsburgh, PA
1957 – 1965: St. Paul, Butler, PA
8/1965 – 9/1965: St. Christopher, Prospect, PA
1965 – 1967: St. Robert Bellarmine, Pittsburgh, PA
6/1966: Resigned
Summary: An adult male wrote in 1996 that when he was a minor, he was sexually assaulted by Thomas on several occasions beginning in 1958. The man stated that the assaults began with Thomas fondling him, then progressed to anal penetration. The victim said that the nun, whose name was unknown, had helped Thomas in some of the sexual assaults.
John William Wellinger
6/15/1970-5/20/79: Assistant at St. Wendelin, Pittsburgh, PA
5/21/1975-5/1977: Graduate Studies in Theology, Catholic University of America,
Washington, D.C.
6/08/1977-8/31/1979: Assistant Pro Tem, St. Athanasius, West View, PA
9/01/1979-6/29/1981: Faculty of the Pontifical College Josephinum, Worthington, OH
for the scholastic year of 1979-1980
6/30/1980-6/29/1981: Assistant Pro Tem, St. Cyril of Alexandria, Pittsburgh, PA
6/30/1981-7/14/1985: Assistant, St. James, Wilkinsburg, PA
7/15/1985-1/25/1987: Parochial Vicar Assistant, St. Clare, Clairton, PA
1/26/1987-6/23/1987: Parochial Vicar Assistant, Our Lady of Grace, Scott Township, PA
6/24/1987-6/24/1991: Pastor, Holy Spirit, West Mifflin, PA
8/01/1987: Campus Ministries, Community College of Allegheny County
South Campus, West Mifflin, PA
6/11/1991: Resignation for reasons of health
1/24/1992-2/06/1994: Parochial Vicar (Pro Tem) at St. George, Allentown, PA
2/07/1994-6/01/1995: Parochial Vicar, St. Philip, Crafton, PA
5/16/1995: Resigned for personal reasons
5/18/1995: Leave of Absence
1/16/2003: Placed on Administrative Leave
3/01/2003: Declared de facto withdrawn from active ministry
Summary: On or about Feb. 19, 1986, Wellinger was sent to St. Luke’s Institute for a number of ussues, including drug and alcohol abuse. On October 8, 1987, Wellinger provided alcohol and drugs to an 18-year-old parishioner, who then had a “bad reaction” to the drugs and was taken to a hospital for treatment.
In 1989, a priest received a letter from a parishioner that listed a number of problems that the parish was having with Wellinger, including “giving drugs and alcohol to teens… teens in the parish have been warned by their parents about drugs from Father… and young men staying at the parish house.
In 1991, Wellinger was drinking alcoholic beverages with a 24 year old man in the rectory. Wellinger unbuttoned the man’s pants and began to perform oral sex on him without consent. Wellinger was sent to St. Michael’s Community in St. Louis for an evaluation. He took an absence from the parish, explained as being for “health reasons.”
In 1992, Wellinger returned to priestly ministry and became a Vicar in Allentown.
In 1994, Wellinger was stopped by officers for driving under the influence of alcohol. A bishop granted Wellinger a leave of absence from June 1995 to December 1995 for “personal reasons.
In 1995, diocesan officials met with the parents of a 17-year-old boy who said that their son was sexually abused by Wellinger in 1991. The victim and some friends were watching videos with Wellinger late into the night and they all fell asleep on the floor. The victim awakened to find that Wellinger had put his hands down the victim’s pants and fondled him.
Wellinger admitted to spending a lot of time with the victim, but denied consciously touching the victim. He said it was “pretty tight quarters” so he may have “unknowingly” touched the victim’s genitals.
Joseph S. Wichmanowski
7/13/1944- 12/15/1945: St. Mary (Polish) in McKeesport, PA
12/06/1945- 10/23/1946: Holy Cross in Glassport, PA
10/24/1946- 5/18/1949: St. Albert on South Side Pittsburgh, PA
5/19/1949- 12/03/1952: St. John Cantius in Sharpsburg, PA
12/04/1952- 6/12/1957: St. Stanislaus in Ambridge, PA
6/13/1957- 6/27/1962: Chaplin Allegheny Co. Workhouse
6/27/1962- 1/31/1969: Pastor St. Cyprian in Pittsburgh, PA
2/01/1969- 4/28/1977: Pastor St. Stanislaus in Ambridge, PA
Summary: A victim said that Wichmanowski forced her to perform oral sex on him, provided her with alcohol in the form and church wine, and made her dress provocatively, all when she was 12 years old. The victim said at one point, Wichmanowski invited her to New York, where told her he would/wanted to impregnate her.
It was reported that this victim, along with 31 other victims of abuse, was part of a settlement with the church for payments totaling $1.2 million.
George A. Wilt
6/10/1959 – 3/17/1968 Sacred Heart, Pittsburgh, PA
3/18/1968 – 5/26/2003 St Bernard, Pittsburgh, PA
Summary: In a memorandum dated November 17, 2000, a woman reported that Wilt made unwanted advances and embraced and kissed her on her mouth. Wilt embraced her two more times and again tried to kiss her.
In 2003, another memorandum said a director of religious education at St. Bernard expressed concerns about Wilt’s behavior. He failed to take immediate action when it was discovered a janitor was viewing pornography on a school computer. He also dismissed several incidents where the same janitor walked in on women and girls while they were using the bathroom. It was also reported that people left the parish because of inappropriate touching and kissing on the mouth, often during first communion.
Another memorandum in 2003 noted Wilt denied kissing eighth grade girls on the lips and inappropriately touching adult women.
In 2004, a victim reported she was sexually abused by Wilt, sometime between 1961 and 1963. The victim explained that she sought counseling from Wilt because she was being sexually abused by her father at the time. Wilt invited her into a small room in the parish house and during their conversation, he fondled her.
Robert G. Wolk
6/07/1966-5/30/1972: St. Athanasius, West View, PA
9/1972-5/1974: Attended Catholic University of America
5/30/1974-1986: Assistant Chancellor of the Diocese of Pittsburgh
7/22/1979-6/10/1981: La Roche College, Pittsburgh, PA
5/13/1986-9/23/1987: St. Thomas More Church, Bethel Park, PA
9/24/1987: Resigned
Summary: A memorandum indicated that in September 1987, a victim said when he was 12 years old and in sixth grade, he became friendly with Wolk. He eventually was invited into the rectory by Wolk to socialize. The socialization progressed from the use of cigarettes and alcohol to “belly rubs” and then “oral sex on the part of both.” The victim was also concerned that his brother, two years younger, was also involved in a similar sexual relationship with Wolk.
In September 1987, Wolk admitted without hesitation. He said his relationship with the victims was over, and understood the necessary action taken by the diocese.
Wolk was sent to St. Luke Institute in Maryland for treatment.
In 1990, Wolk plead guilty in Allegheny County court to four counts of involuntary deviate sexual intercourse and to corruption of minors. He was sentenced to five to 10 years of incarceration. Later that year, he pleaded guilty in Washington County court to two more counts of involuntary deviate sexual intercourse, and received a sentence of five to 10 years, to be served concurrently to his Allegheny County sentence.
Wolk is also accused in the following cases:
In 2003, a man said when he was a teenager in the mid-to-late 1980s, Wolk gave him a massage. Wolk then loosened his belt “to get comfortable.” A little while later, Wolk told the teen he would be putting some lotion on his neck. Although the teen did not see any lotion, he felt Wolk put something wet over his neck.
In 2017, a victim assistance coordinator in the Altoona/Johnstown Diocese alerted the diocese that a man had accused Wolk and another priest of abusing and molesting him.
In 2009, another male said that he was abused by Wolk in 1968 to 1970 or 1971. The boy was 14 to 17 years old during the abuse.
In September 2010, a parishioner came to a priest in Midland regarding sexual abuse that occurred during his childhood. The victim said the abuse was from Wolk and Father Leo Burchianti.
William B. Yockey
10/13/1977-10/01/1978: Assumption Church, Bellevue, PA
10/02/1978-6/28/1983: St. Bernadette, Monroeville, PA
6/29/1983-5/31/1984: Department of Social & Community Development,
6/29/1983-5/31/1984: Diocese of Pittsburgh
6/01/1984-2/16/1986: St. Canice, Pittsburgh, PA
2/17/1986-10/11/1987: St. Therese of Lisieux, Munhall, PA
10/12/1987-1/22/1989: St. Winifred, Mt. Lebanon, PA
1/23/1989-7/25/1991: Allegheny County Jail
1/23/1989-4/20/1989: Chaplain/Coordinator, Allegheny County Jail
4/21/1989-7/25/1991: St. Luke, Carnegie, PA (In Reserve)
7/25/1991: St. Anthony, Bridgeville, PA (In Reserve)
7/25/1991: Leave of Absence, Withdrawn from Active Ministry
Summary: In May 1991, two men accused Yockey of sexually abusing them when they were teenagers. On one occasion, one of the men accused Yockey of sexually molesting him in October. Of 1981. Both had been drinking – the victim was 16 years old – and he crashed out after drinking too much. At some point in the night, the victim fell off the couch and found Yockey fondling his genitals. Yockey then got on top of the victim and tried to kiss him. The other victim made a similar allegation.
When he was confronted in 1991, Yockey said the first incident was true, and the second incident may have been true, but he did not recall anything and that “that it was not impossible and won’t deny it.”
Yockey was put on administrative leave from his assignment as a chaplain to the County Jail.
Although the Diocese had information regarding alleged criminal actions on the part of Yockey as far back as 1986, there was only one document – dated January 2014 – that illustrated a report to the Allegheny County District Attorney’s Office. There was no mention of the history of Yockey’s reported sexual assaults.
Theodore P. Zabowski
6/15/1970 – Parochial Vicar, St. Lawrence O’Toole, Garfield, PA
5/21/1975 – Parochial Vicar, Most Holy Name, North Side, PA
10/06/1980 – Parochial Vicar, Holy Family, Lawrenceville, PA
1/14/1981 – Parochial Vicar, St. Catherine of Sweden, Wildwood, PA
1/11/1982 – Parochial Vicar, St. Mary, Glenshaw, PA
6/29/1985 – Pastor, St. Adalbert, South Side, PA
10/27/1992 – Pastor/Resigned, St. Richard, Richland Township, PA
1/08/1996 – Leave of absence
9/16/1996 – Parochial Vicar, Immaculate Conception, Washington, PA
7/14/2000 – Leave of Absence
7/29/2002 – Withdrew from ministry
Summary: An internal diocese document labeled “Chronology of Father Zabowski stated that in October 1995, a sexual abuse allegation was made against Zabowski. Between 1975 and 1979, a victim stated he engaged in wrestling with Zabowski and then Zabowski asked him to remove his clothes. After he removed his clothes, Zabowski fondled him.
In an evaluation dated Novmber 28, Zabowski admitted to “affectionate hugging” of teenage boys. In a letter dated June 26, 2003, Zabowski informed Bishop Wuerl that the “therapy helped him deal with allegations of placing himself with adolescent boys in a sexually inappropriate manner, gave him the ability to deal with and, yes, overcome the sexual ignorance and social backwardness of his life.”
George Zirwas
You can find out more about Zirwas details here.
Richard Zula
Further information on Zula was not listed in the document.
Pittsburgh Priests #2-10
Various assignments within the diocese of Pittsburgh
Summary: This group of nine priests contained specific complaints with allegations including offenses against children as young as five years old, some reports made as recently as 2017.
Diocese of Pittsburgh
Redacted – pending litigation
The name of the priest, where he served and the exact incident was entirely redacted in the grand jury report.
James R. Adams
5/1963-2/1966: St. Francis Xavier, Pittsburgh, PA
2/1966-8/1966: St. Peter, McKeesport, PA
8/1966-5/1972: St. Raphael, Morningside, PA
5/1972-10/1977: St. Francis of Assisi, Finleyville, PA
10/1977-9/1979: Resurrection, West Mifflin, PA
9/1979-10/1992 St. Isaac Jogues, Elrama, PA
6/17/85-11/19/85: Leave of Absence
10/4/1992-3/31/93: Leave of Absence
3/31/1993-3/1/2003: Leave of Absence
3/1/2003: Withdrew/Dismissed from Ministry
Summary: On July 24, 1992, a young man accused Father James R. Adams of sexually assaulting him in the 1970’s when the victim was between 8 and 12 years old and a member of St. Francis of Assisi. The victim said that Adams had touched his genitals while the victim was fully clothed on at least two occasions. Both times Adams was driving the victim and other boys to outtings.
In light of the allegation, Adams’ ministerial faculties were withdrawn and he was sent to St. Michael’s Community in St. Louis, Missouri for evaluation and treatment. Adams left before completing the program. In January 2003, his faculties were withdrawn and he was permanently removed from ecclesiastical ministry, referencing the publication of Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People.
James L. Armstrong
10/13/1977 – 7/07/1982: St. Elizabeth of Hungary, Pittsburgh, PA
7/08/1982 – 6/02/1985: St. Francis Xavier, Pittsburgh, PA
6/03/1985 – 6/21/1989: Resurrection, West Mifflin, PA
6/21/1989 – 2/20/1990: St. Ursula, Allison Park, PA
7/23/1990 – 6/27/1991: Holy Sepulcher, Butler, PA
6/27/1991 – 12/27/1991: Leave of Absence
10/24/1992 – 8/02/1999: St. Paul, Butler, PA
8/02/1999 – 7/23/2007: Newman Center, Slippery Rock, PA
8/02/1999 – 7/23/2007: St. Peter, Slippery Rock, PA
7/24/2007: Administrative Leave
Summary: A file was opened on Father James Armstrong on February 16, 1990, that alleged Armstrong gave homeless boys from the Pittsburgh drugs, alcohol and money in exchange for sex. In May 1991, Armstrong was sent to St. Luke Institute in Maryland for evaluation. Residential treatment was recommended and the Diocese placed Armstrong on administrative leave.
A confidential memorandum indicated that a victim contacted the Diocese on September 30, 2009 and requested counseling. He reported that he had been abused by several priests in the course of his life, including a priest whom he knew as “Father Tom.”
The male stated that his father was a heroin addict and his mother was a prostitute. He eventually ran away from home and became a “street kid.” The male’s therapist advised that the incidents involved “sex for pay” and occurred when the male was 14 to 15 years old.
The victim indicated that he was introduced to Armstrong when he was 16 years old in the winter of 1985-86. According to the victim, Armstrong would drive him [the victim] and a “hustler” far out Route 28 to Route 8, the Red Belt, toward Shaler Township up a winding road, always late night around 11:00 PM to midnight. The victim wrote that Father Tom had them do various violent sex acts like calling him degrading things while he gave them oral sex. They beat his body, slapped his face and spanked him.
Armstrong received treatment between his 2007 administrative leave and 2011.
John M. Bauer
5/22/1973-10/02/1978: Parochial Vicar, St. Joan of Arc, South Hills, PA
10/02/1978-1/17/1988: Parochial Vicar, Immaculate Conception, Washington, PA
6/17/1988-6/27/1994: Pastor, Immaculate Conception, Washington, PA
6/27/1994-2/18/1998: Pastor, Good Samaritan, Ambridge, PA
2/18/1998-1/20/1999: Leave of Absence
1/20/1999-6/04/2006: Administrator, Our Lady of Consolation, Carmichaels, PA
1/20/1999 -present: Pastor, St. Hugh, Carmichaels, PA
6/04/2006 -present: Pastor, Our Lady of Consolation, Carmichaels, PA
Summary: An allegation of sexual abuse by Father John Bauer first surfaced when it was included in another complaint that was lodged against Father Michael Romero. A male said that Romero and Bauer would provide him alcohol and encourage him to drink it. He stated that he has suffered with alcoholism for years while he was trying to suppress the memories of sexual abuse as a minor child. He stated that he attributes the majority of his problems with alcohol to his early exposure to alcohol by Romero and Bauer.
The victim reported that Bauer would “wrestle” with him but maintained that there was no genital contact. He found this to be strange that Bauer would want to wrestle with all the boys since he was not a wrestling coach or was not really involved in the wrestling program.
In a memorandum to the file dated October 17, 2013, Bauer stated that he recalled the victim and that he remembered him as one of the young boys who would work out in the “wrestling room.” Bauer said he remembered wrestling with some of the boys on occasion in the “wrestling room.” Bauer stated he would often “join them” since he enjoyed doing a good workout.
Bauer denied providing alcohol to any minors.
John E. Brueckner
2/20/1940 – 9/6/1944: Immaculate Conception, Pittsburgh, PA
9/7/1944 – 9/11/1947: St. Joseph, New Kensington, PA
9/11/1947 – 4/6/1949: St. Mary and New Castle Hospital, New Castle, PA
4/7/1949 – 11/7/1951: St. Mary, Beaver Falls, PA
11/ 8/1951 – 6/13/1956: St. Lawrence, Pittsburgh, PA
6/14/1956 – 5/27/1959: Annunciation, North Side, PA
5/23/1959 – 10/2/1960: St. Luke, Carnegie, PA
Summary: According to a 2016 document, a woman had contacted the Diocese of Greensburg to report that her husband suffered abuse at the hand of a Catholic priest when he was only a child. She stated that in 2002 her husband informed her that he had been abused by a priest from St. Joseph sometime between the years of 1947 and 1951. He stated that the abuse occurred in the priest’s car after they saw a baseball game together. She could not recall the name of the priest who abused her husband.
Brueknere was among the priests at St. Joseph during that time period when Greensburg was part of the Pittsburgh Diocese. It does not appear that the Diocese of Pittsburgh took any further action in connection with the allegation.
Leo Burchianti
5/27/1964-8/21/1966: St. Joseph, Natrona, PA
8/22/1966-6/09/1968: Immaculate Conception, Bloomfield, PA
6/10/1968-5/21/1973: Our Lady of Grace, Scott Township, PA
5/22/1973-1/24/1979: St. James, Sewickley, PA
1/25/1979-11/21/1980: St. Philip Neri, Donora, PA
11/22/1980-2/12/1981: Leave of Absence, health reasons
2/13/1981-12/03/1981: St. Rosalia, Greenfield, PA
12/04/1981-4/12/1993: St. Joseph, West Aliquippa, PA
4/12/1993-1/30/1995: Leave of Absence, health reasons/administrative
1/30/1995: Retired
1/31/2003: Withdrew from ministry
Summary: From approximately 1967 to 1993, Burchianti was alleged to have had inappropriate contact with at least eight young boys. These allegations included but were not limited to Burchianti: having anal or oral sex with them; inappropriately touching them; making suggestive comments to them; providing alcohol to them; allowing them to use drugs in the rectory; and inviting some to stay overnight to sleep in his bed with him.
On April 6, 1993, an unidenitified victim stated that from the ages of 13 to 14 (1976-77) to age 21 he had engaged in oral and anal sex with Burchianti. The male stated that the abuse with Burchianti occurred approximately 200-300 times while Burchianti was assigned to St. Philip’s in Donora and then approximately 20-30 times while Burchianti was at St. Joseph.
Burchianti admitted to having had a sexual relationship with him over the years, but disputed the number of times it occurred. on March 18, 1994, a signed settlement agreement for $15,000 was reached between the Diocese and the victim.
Robert Castelucci
5/27/1964-3/07/1965: St. Rosalia, Greenfield, PA
5/08/1965-5/21/1973: St. Joseph, Coraopolis, PA
5/08/1965-5/21/1973: St. Martha, Groveton, PA
5/22/1973-5/29/1974: St. Patrick, Canonsburg, PA
5/30/1974-6/29/1981: St. Mary of Mt. Carmel, Braddock, PA
6/30/1981-12/09/1994: St. Lawrence, Hillsville, PA
12/09/1994-7/27/1999: Leave of Absence
7/28/1999-3/25/2002: Administrative Leave
3/25/2002: Withdrew from active ministry
Summary: Despite having knowledge since 1994 of Castelucci’ s sexual abuse of children, the Diocese did not remove him from ministry, instead initially allowing him to take a leave of absence for personal reasons.
The first victim stated that Castelucci molested him at the St. Mary rectory and in Castelucci’ s car. The victim said the abuse occurred from age 13 or 14 until age 17 in the 1970’s. The victim alleged that sexual activity with Castelucci included masturbation, oral sex and one attempt at anal sex. He reported that Castelucci gave him money and cigarettes. The victim eventually filed a civil lawsuit along with 32 other individuals, which resulted in a $1.25 million settlement in October 2007.
Several other victims said Castelucci sexually abused them over a number of years. One victim claimed that in the 1970′ when he was a 12 or 13 -year -old altar boy, Castelucci had asked his mother if he could stay overnight at the St. Joseph rectory. According to the victim, his mother readily agreed since his father was no longer around. She wanted him to spend time with a man, particularly a priest for a positive role model.
On March 25, 2002, Castelucci submitted a handwritten letter to Bishop Wuerl withdrawing from active ministry. On the same date, Castelucci sent a second letter to Wuerl in which he denied all allegations against him.
Mauro James Cautela
5/1974-5/1979: Our Lady of Joy, Pittsburgh, PA
6/1979-8/1983: St. Vitus, New Castle, PA
8/1983-5/1984: St. James, Sewickley, PA
5/1984-1/1989: Mother of Good Counsel, Pittsburgh, PA
1/1989-10/1992: St. Norbert, Pittsburgh, PA
10/1992-2/2000: Purification of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Ellwood City, PA
7/1998-2/2000: St. Agatha, Ellwood City, PA
2/2000-8/2005: Holy Redeemer, Ellwood City, PA
Summary: Cautela was alleged to have inappropriately touched three young boys during the times that he respectively served as pastor of Our Lady of Joy, St. Norbert, Purification of the Blessed Virgin Mary, and Holy Redeemer. Additionally, Cautela is alleged to have used church donations and other funds to further some of his relationships with young boys as well as to purchase homosexual pornography on church computers.
In 2006, a victim stated that between 1975 and 1981, when he was about 14 years of age, Cautela molested him multiple times while on church property and at Bear Lake in Seven Springs. The victim alleged that he was provided alcohol on some occasions as well.
Cautela claimed that the victim asked for $20,000 in in 2003 in exchange for not exposing Cautela as a pedophile. The blackmail allegations had been forwarded to the Lawrence County District Attorney’s Office. The records revealed that an Ellwood City Police Officer advised that a case number was never assigned to the matter out of respect for Cautela.
In 2005, a male alleged that Cautela sexually abused him between 1998 and 2005 when he was between 12 and 19 years old. This victim said that Cautela first encouraged him to begin lifting weights at a nearby gym. Cuatela’s assistance with the weightlifting soon included inappropriate touching.
After the allegations were made, Cautela resigned from his position as pastor in August 2005 and was placed on administrative leave. On December 9, 2005, the Federal Bureau of Investigation agreed to file federal charges against Cautela for the incidents that occurred outside the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Cautela suffered a heart attack and died in 2005, concluding the criminal investigation
Charles J. Chatt
5/27/1964-3/27/1969: St. Alphonsus, Springdale, PA
3/28/1969-5/29/1974: St. Anne, Castle Shannon, PA
5/30/1974-8/23/1981: St. Albert the Great, Baldwin, PA
8/24/1981-7/27/1992: Our Lady of Loreto, Brookline, PA
7/27/1992-1/31/2003: Leave of Absence
1/31/2003: Withdrew from Active Ministry
Summary: In 1992, the father of a young man reported his son’s sexually abuse by Chatt. These incidents occurred in either 1970 or 1971, when the victim was in seventh or eighth grade at St. Anne. According to the Diocesan report, the father reported that he had gone to see Chatt and had told Chatt that he (Chatt) needed to call the Diocese or he (the victim’s father) would. That same day, Chatt met with Diocesan officials and admitted to the sexual contact which began at St. Anne when victim one was 14 years of age.
The report further disclosed that when Chatt was assigned to St. Albert’s, he had sexual contact for a few months with a 15 -year -old from that parish. A letter indicated that Chatt confirmed for church representatives that he was “involved in sexual relationships” with the first victim as well as “five other youngsters under the age of eighteen in the 1970’s.” He attributed his behavior to the ‘free spirit” of that time when the “anything goes” mentality was in “vogue,” in addition to his own sexual weaknesses and what he described as the “promiscuity of the adolescent boys involved.”
Following the first documented report of sexual abuse of children reported in July 1992 that occurred in 1970 or 1971 at St. Anne’s Parish, Chatt resigned as pastor of Our Lady of Loreto Parish. The parishioners were told that he had resigned for health reasons and to allow him time to better care for his aging parents. Chatt was sent to St. Michael’s Community for an evaluation and thereafter returned to the facility for treatment where he remained for approximately five months. At the completion of treatment, St. Michael’s staff recommended he be returned to ministry.
Anthony J. Cipolla
12/06/1972-11/14/1974: Parochial Vicar, St. Bernard Church, Mt. Lebanon, PA
11/15/1974-5/20/1975: Parochial Vicar, Immaculate Conception, Washington, PA
5/21/1975-9/22/1975: Parochial Vicar, St. Philomena, Beaver Falls, PA
9/23/1976-7/04/1978: Parochial Vicar, St. Agatha, Bridgeville, PA
7/05/1976-10/08/1978: Parochial Vicar, St. Francis Xavier, Pittsburgh, PA
10/09/1978-6/28/198: Parochial Vicar, St. Canice, Knoxville, PA
6/28/1983-7/05/1983: Parochial Vicar, St. Philip, Crafton, PA (7 days)
12/01/1983-11/01/1988: Chaplin, McGuire Memorial Home for Exceptional Children, New Brighton, PA
11/01/1988-9/19/2002: Leave of Absence
9/19/2002: Laicized
Summary: During the time Cipolla served as a priest, three different Bishops headed the Diocese. Cipolla was moved by his superiors from parish to parish, throughout the Diocese, several times during his tenure, for a total of eight moves in a 16-year period.
Cipolla was first accused of sexually abusing two brothers, ages 9 and 12 in 1978 in Cipolla’ s bedroom in the rectory and also in a hotel room in Dearborn, Michigan. On July 25, 1978, the victims’ mother called the Pittsburgh Police Department and criminal charges were filed. Ultimately, the criminal charges were not pursued … because, according to the mother, she was harassed and threatened by church officials to drop the charges and to “let the church handle it.”
Detectives subsequently interviewed the first victim, with his mother and father present. In Cipolla’s bedroom, the boy sat on Cipolla’s lap while Cipolla counted and squeezed the boy’s penis up to 50 times. Cipolla told him that this was their secret and it would be a sin if he told anyone. He was made to sign a paper saying he would not tell anyone. The boy said he went home and told his parents.
According to the investigation, Cipolla molested both boys under the pretense of giving them medical examinations.
The boys’ mother said that before a scheduled preliminary hearing, the prosecution allowed an attorney for the Diocese to question the boys. The woman said the diocese attorney “became a bully. He was telling my kids, `Well, look, you go into court, you’re going to be talking – – if you don’t want to talk about it now, there could be 100 people in there that you’re going to have to talk about it in front of and we’re going to tear your testimony apart.’”
The attorney also asked her why they wanted to “hurt the church?” She told the Grand Jury, however, “We weren’t there to hurt the church. We were there to stop Cipolla before he did it again with some other kids.” According to the mother, the prosecutor told her that if she signed to expunge the charges against Cipolla and he “does it again” within 10 years, “we can bring those charges back up.” She was told that “it would be kept quiet unless he committed the crime again.”
The woman said community harassment from Cipolla’s supporters got so bad, the family moved out of state.
The charges were dropped and the Diocese reassigned Cipolla immediately to St. Canice where he reoffended on another young male.
Because of his adamant refusal to comply with church-ordered treatment, in 1990 Cipolla was told he could not act as a priest in good standing; could not conduct any public celebrations as a priest; and could not wear priestly attire. He could not resume doing any of these things until he obtained a church – approved evaluation.
Even after an “official” ruling from the Vatican that he was no longer a priest in good standing, Cipolla continued to perform masses and to present himself as a priest in good standing, even though he was advised in person, several times, that he was barred from doing these things. Cippola’ s appeal to the Vatican was denied in November 1996.
In July 2002 Wuerl wrote to the Pope asking for Cipolla’ s dismissal from priesthood. Official approval for Cipolla’ s dismissal as a priest was issued on September 19, 2002. Despite this, in December of 2003 the Diocese received information that Cipolla was still saying masses and acting as a priest.
John P. Conner
4/28/1962: Assistant, St. Francis of Assisi, Vineland, NJ
1/08/1966: Assistant, St. Mary, Gloucester, NJ
6/18/1966: Assistant in Residence, St. Rose of Lima, Haddon Heights, NJ
6/18/1966: Faculty, Paul VI High School, Haddon Township, NJ
1969-1970: Assistant CYO Director of Diocese, Diocese Center
1970-1985: Chairperson, Bishop Eustace Preparatory, Pennsauken Township, NJ
2/2002: Removed from active ministry/retirement
Summary: In October 1984, Connor was arrested in New Jersey for sexually molesting a 14 -year -old child. The sexual abuse took place in Connor’ s home in the Diocese of Camden during the time he was a theology teacher and golf coach at Bishop Eustace Preparatory School in Pennsauken. Lawyers for the Diocese of Camden negotiated a pretrial intervention with the Cape May Prosecutor’s Office. The terms of the agreement were that if Connor would admit to sexually molesting the child, he would have the record of his arrest erased, as long as he were not re-arrested within one year.
Connor spent approximately eight months in treatment after his arrest. Despite his criminal history, Connor was transferred to the Pittsburgh Diocese in 1985. In 1988, Bevilacqua, who had become the Archbishop of Philadelphia, appointed Connor as assistant pastor of St. Matthew in Conshohocken, a parish with a grade school. Bevilacqua encouraged Connor, among other things, to “educate youth.” Connor was given an unrestricted ministry and there was no warning to the parishioners of the church that Connor was an admitted child molester.
Bevilacqua never told Father James W. Donlon, the pastor of St. Matthew Church, about Connor’s alcoholism and child abuse.
In 1993, Connor was suddenly moved back to Camden because his 1984 victim of sexual abuse had sued and received a settlement from the Diocese of Camden. Since Donlon received no warning from the Archbishop, he allowed Connor full access to the youth of the parish. The pastor did not know to be concerned about an especially close relationship that was developing between Connor and a young boy from the parish grade school, named “Timothy.” Donlon did not know about Connor’s criminal background until he was contacted by a news reporter in 2002.
John David Crowley
6/10/1954-6/9/1968: St. Elizabeth, Pleasant Hills, PA
6/10/1968-3/27/1969: St. Margaret, Green Tree, PA
3/28/1969-1/17/2003: Holy Angels, Hay, PA
1/10/2003: Resigned
Summary: In 1992, a complaint was made by a mother and her twin adult daughters, one of whom was 16 years old at the time, about sexual abuse by Crowley. Crowley was given a one-week mental health evaluation where it was deemed his denial of any abuse was truthful and was returned to his parish. In 2001, the woman and daughters renewed their complaints and the Diocesan Review Board found the victims’ allegations to be credible and rejected Crowley’ s testimony.
Crowley chose resignation on Jan. 7, 2003. Wuerl faced great scrutiny regarding Crowley’ s departure by members of the parish and the media who loved Crowley and thought Wuerl had forced Crowley out. Crowley died in 2006.
Richard Deakin
3/1984-6/1987: Deacon until ordained; Assistant Pastor after ordination, St. Martin, Baltimore, MD
6/1987-8/1988: Parochial Vicar, St. Cecilia Church and Friary, Rochester, PA
1988: St. Francis Friary, Brookline, PA (in residence only)
8/15/1989: Leave of Absence
12/29/1992: Dismissed from clerical state
Summary: In May 1990, Deakin was contacted by the Baltimore City Police Department about allegations that he had sexually abused a 13 -year -old girl for more than a two-year period while his was the assistant pastor of St. Martin in Baltimore, Md. At the time police contacted him, Deakin was on a leave of absence from his Order and the priesthood.
Deakin was arrested on June 25, 1990. He was charged with and, in October 1990, pleaded guilty to charges of second-degree rape and sexual abuse of a child. He was sentenced to a 15 -year suspended prison sentence and five years of probation. When the victim was 13, she had surgery to remove a tumor from her chest. During this vulnerable period, Deakin assumed a prominent role in her life, being both her friend and confidant. He would visit her in the hospital regularly and they became very close. “In the winter of 1985-86,” Deakin began sexually abusing her. “The sexual relationship intensified and sex occurred in St. Martin’s Church, the rectory, Father Rich’s car, (redacted) home, and various other locations.”
In an undated letter by Deakin detailed how the abuse started. He maintained the sexual contact was consensual. He went on to say that he believed that he and the victim “were both so emotionally needy that we overlooked what was right and wrong.” Deakin said he ended the relationship when he fell in love with another woman.
Ferdinand B. Demsher
8/22/1946 – 7/16/1947: St. Peter, New Kensington, PA
7/17/1947 – 6/29/1949: Christ the King, Ambridge, PA
6/30/1949 – 5/20/1951: St. James, West End, PA
5/20/1951 – 6/29/1963: United States Army
7/02/1963 – 6/06/1966: Resurrection, Brookline, PA
6/07/1966 – 6/24/1983: St. Mary of the Assumption, Pittsburgh, PA
Summary: On March 18, 2002, a victim contacted the Diocese to report sexual abuse by Demsher. The victim stated that the abuse occurred from 1975 to 1976 at St. Mary of the Assumption church. The victim was approximately 13 to 14 at that time.
According to the victim, his grandparents arranged for him to be employed at St. Mary doing odd jobs for Demsher. One summer day, he complained of a heat rash on his inner thigh. Demsher offered to look at the rash, and the victim remembered being in Demsher’s rectory office with his pants down. He stated that Demsher had “manipulated his penis until it was hard” and when he could no longer “stand it he ejaculated.” The victim stated that he knew it was wrong, but “he [Demsher] could cause problems for me.” Demsher continued this pattern of abuse while the victim had the heat rash.
An internal Dioesan memorandum dated April 4, 2002 ended with “we found [the victim’s] allegation to be credible.” The Diocese agreed to cover the cost of tuition for his daughters to attend Catholic school.
On Feb. 4, 2015, a second victim came forward with allegations of abuse. He advised that Demsher engaged in sexual activity with him while he was approximately 14. He stated that the abuse occurred when he was a freshman at Central Catholic High School. The victim recalled having a cold and Demsher’s remedy was to fondle the boy’s genitals.
In February 2016, a third victim claimed he was fondled by Demsher in grade school. In April 2016, a fourth victim called to report sexual abuse by Demsher from the mid -late 1960s. The Diocese provided the victim with financial help on September 9, 2016.
Myles Eric Diskin
3/12/1975 – 7/17/1979: St. Paul, Butler, PA
7/18/1975 – 11/26/1981: Purification of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Ellwood City, PA
11/27/1981 – 7/05/1987: Sacred Heart, Pittsburgh, PA
7/06/1987 – 1/01/1991: Diocese of Pittsburgh
1/31/1991 – 5/24/2002: Diocese of Pittsburgh
3/19/2003: Resigned
Summary: Diocesan records contain a letter dated June 2004 to Butler County District Attorney’s Office which acknowledges a series of civil lawsuits relating to Diskin’ s conduct. Three complaints had been filed with the Butler County DA alleging sexual abuse by Diskin: on a boy in the mid -1970s at a church in Butler; a girl in the mid -1970’s at the same church; and, a boy in 1976 to 1977 when the victim was 12 to 13. That abuse occurred in the school, in the rectory, in Diskin’ s automobile, in the sanctuary of the church (St. Paul), and in the victim’s home.
In February 2009, a complaint of sexual abuse by Diskin was made to the Allegheny County District Attorney’s Office. Two victims reported that Diskin sexually abused them in the mid –1970s when they would have been approximately 11 and 14. A January 2015 complaint of sexual abuse was made to the Allegheny County District Attorney’s Office. An unidentified male said Diskin sexually abused him by inappropriately touching him in Butler County in 1976 to 1977 when the victim was 15 to 16.
Also in January, 2015, another complaint was made to the Diocese when a woman advised that Diskin sexually abused her by inappropriately touching her in the mid-1970s in Butler County when she was a minor.
Richard J. Dorsch
6/15/1970-5/20/1975: Parochial Vicar, St. Basil, Carrick, PA
5/21/1975-10/12/1977: Parochial Vicar, St. Philip, Crafton, PA
10/13/1977-3/07/1983: Parochial Vicar, All Saints, Etna, PA
3/08/1983-5/25/1985: Parochial Vicar, St. Michael, Butler, PA
6/26/1985-9/23/199: Pastor, St. Francis De Sale, McKees Rocks, PA
9/23/1991-2/07/1994: Administrator, St. Coleman, Turtle Creek, PA
2/07/1994-8/26/1994: Team Ministry, Risen Lord, Pittsburgh, PA
8/26/1994: Leave of Absence
5/28/1996: Withdrawn from ministry
Summary: Dorsch was arrested on Aug. 26, 1994, following allegations arising from a child’s routine physical examination that month. At a meeting between Dorsch and Diocese officials the day of the arrest, Dorsch admitted to “inappropriately” touching the victim, holding him longer than necessary, and sitting the victim on his (Dorsch’s) lap while stroking the victim’s stomach and touching his nipples. He denied touching the boy’s genitals.
In April 1995, a jury convicted Dorsch of two counts of indecent assault and one count of corrupting the morals of a minor. He was sentenced to 11 1/2 to 23 months incarceration but releases on parole one week later and admitted back to St. Luke Institute in Maryland.
On Dec. 9, 1994, a second victim indicated he was sexually assaulted by Dorsch at the All Saints church in Etna when he was 10. The victim indicated the sexual abuse stopped only when Dorsch was transferred from All Saints when the victim was in eighth grade. He estimated that, in total, Dorsch assaulted him on 50 to 70 separate occasions. The victim later filed a lawsuit against the Diocese alleging a decades-long conspiracy to protect priests who molested minors. A review of Dorsch’s Diocesan file did not reveal how this lawsuit was ultimately resolved.
On Feb. 25, 2004, a third victim, who served as an altar boy and attended a school associated with All Saints, described how Dorsch taught him to play racquetball and then made him sit on his lap in the hot tub. After masses, Dorsch would take the victim to play board games and put his hands down the victim’s pants. On other occasions, Dorsch would take him for car rides and make the victim touch him sexually while he drove. The victim further informed Diocesan officials that he also sexually abused by Dorsch at the “Braille Trail” (located in North Park/Allegheny County), in the sacristy, the rectory, the Shaler Racquetball Court, and in the parking lot of a local shopping center. These sexual assaults reportedly included oral and anal sex. In March 2010, the Diocese announced it would stop paying for the victim’s mental health treatment. On May 4, 2010, the victim committed suicide.
A fourth victim reported that when he was in the seventh and eighth grade, Dorsch began sexually abusing him. By the end of his eighth grade school year, he was drinking heavily. At his worst, he was drinking a half gallon of vodka per day in the hopes that his drinking would kill him.
A fifth victim alleged Dorsch sexually abused him when he served as an altar boy at St. Coleman at ages 12 to 14.
David F. Dzermejko
5/30/1974-6/10/1979: Our Lady of the Most Blessed Sacrament, Natrona Heights, PA
6/11/1979-6/03/1984: St. Teresa of Avila, Pittsburgh, PA
6/04/1984-6/10/1991: St. Susanna, Penn Hills, PA
6/10/1991-10/26/1992: St. Jerome, Charleroi, PA
10/26/1992-6/15/2009: Mary, Mother of the Church, Charleroi, PA
6/15/2009: Leave of Absence
6/15/2009-1/18/2013: Resides at St. John Vianney Manor, Pittsburgh, PA
10/2015: Laicized
Summary: Dzermejko was reported to have had inappropriate contact with several young boys, conduct which included anal and oral sexual assaults of young minors. In June 2009, a woman called to report that prior to her husband’s suicide in April, 2009, he told her that he had been sexually abused by Dzermejkko. It occurred sometime between 1979 and 1984. After meeting with representatives from the Diocese, it was decided that this victim’s family would be provided with funds for counseling.
On June 19, 2009, a second victim stated that he was an altar boy at St. Teresa of Avila while he was a student at the school from 1979-1982 while he was in the fifth, sixth and seventh grades. This victim reported that he was “raped, had anal and oral sex and performed oral sex with Dave over a course of three years.”
On Jan. 31, 2012, a third victim reported that he was sexually abused by Dzermejko in the late 1980’s when he was 15 to 16 years of age. On Jan. 11, 2013, law enforcement officers executed a warrant to search Dzermejko’ s rooms at St. John Vianney Manor. They seized child pornography, located on his computer and also found firearms and illegal drugs. He was arrested in April 2013 for possession of child pornography. Dzermejko admitted: That he had been viewing child pornography for in excess of 10 years; that he had historically travelled to Thailand to have sexual encounters with teen boys; and, that he had gone there as recently as the same calendar year. In November 2013, Dzermejko pled guilty to possession of child pornography in federal court. He was sentenced to three years in prison. He began serving that sentence in June 2014.
Redacted – pending litigation
The name of the priest, where he served and the exact incident was entirely redacted in the grand jury report.
John P. Fitzgerald
5/30/1974 – 2/7/1977 St. Thomas, Braddock, PA
5/30/1974 – 2/7/1977 St. Michael, Braddock, PA
2/8/1977 – 7/7/1982 St. Michael the Archangel, Butler, PA
7/8/1982 – 3/7/1983 St. Alexis, Wexford, PA
3/8/1983 – 6/12/1988 All Saint’s, Pittsburgh, PA
6/13/1988 – 6/21/1989 St. Anselm, Pittsburgh, PA
6/21/1989 – 8/2/1991 St. Teresa of Avila, Pittsburgh, PA
8/2/1991 – 7/17/1995 St. Anthony, Bessemer, PA
11/28/1994 – 6/17/1996 Pittsburgh International Airport
1/3/1995 – 7/17/1995 St. Lawrence, Hillsville, PA
7/17/1995 – 6/17/1996 St. John Neumann, Pittsburgh, PA
6/17/1996 – 7/1/2009 Pittsburgh International Airport
7/1/2009 – 7/31/2014 Our Lady of Peace, Conway, PA
Summary: In 1996 while Fitzgerald resided at Holy Trinity Church and was the Chaplain at the Pittsburgh International Airport drove a boy to a hanger in New Castle where Fitzgerald’s airplane was kept. During the ride, Fitzgerald touched the boy’s genital area. On another occasion, while they were in Fitzgerald’s airplane, Fitzgerald touched the boy’s genital area and attempted to put his hand down the boy’s pants. The boy further reported that Fitzgerald exposed himself in the Pittsburgh International Airport chapel and also had the boy perform oral sex on him “maybe half a dozen times.” Fitzgerald instructed the boy not to tell anyone, warning that he would do the same thing to his mother and sister. Fitzgerald told him, “I know when your father isn’t at home.” Fitzgerald denied the allegations.
The current status of proceedings against Fitzgerald is unknown. The Diocese paid for some of the counseling and drug treatment for the male in addition to providing the family with a $40,000 reimbursement for drug treatment expenses that were incurred prior to the report being made.
Joseph M. Ganter
7/1922-9/1923: Saint’s Peter & Paul, Pittsburgh, PA
9/1923-7/1932: St. Martin Church, West End, Pittsburgh, PA
7/1932-3/1942: St. Athanasius Church, West View, PA
3/1942-6/1964: St. Boniface Church, Penn, PA
6/3/1964: Retired
Summary: In 2008, an 80-year-old male contacted the Diocese of Pittsburgh to report that Ganter had abused him in the 1930s when he was approximately 10 and an altar server at St. Anthanasius. When Ganter’s personal file was reviewed, an allegation from 1944 was discovered wherein an adult male had complained of immoral and corrupt relationships between Ganter and at least three teenage boys, ages 13 to 15.
Two teenage boys refused Ganter’s requests for sex and received $3 and $12 from Ganter along with instructions to tell no one. A third teen engaged in a sex act with Ganter on Sept. 30, 1943.
In 1945, at the request of Ganter, a Justice of the Peace conducted an investigation into the accusations. The individuals were interviewed, gave different stories and denied any supposed immoral relations with Ganter.
John A. Genizer
7/31/1968-5/21/1973: Parochial Vicar, St. Paul, Butler, PA
5/22/1973-2/17/1975: Special Assignment, Office of Religious Education, Diocese of Pittsburgh Pastoral Center
5/22/1973-2/17/1975: Duquesne University-Graduate Studies
2/17/1975-8/21/1980: Assistant Director, Adult Religious Education Diocese of Pittsburgh Pastoral Center
8/25/1980-4/29/1990: Associate Spiritual Director, Mount St. Mary Seminary, Emmitsburg, MD
6/11/1990-6/10/1991: Parochial Vicar, Holy Innocents, Pittsburgh, PA
6/01/1991-2/07/1994: Assistant Chaplain Nursing Home, McGuire Memorial Home, New Brighton, PA
6/10/1991-2/07/1994: Administrator, St. Cyril & Methodius, New Brighton, PA
2/07/1994-1/17/2000: Pastor, St. Colman, Turtle Creek, PA
1/17/2000-3/12/2007: Chaplain Military -US Navy, Archdiocese for Military Services, Washington, DC
3/12/2007-7/07/2008: Administrator, St. Barbara, Bridgeville, PA
7/07/2008-6/06/2011: Parochial Vicar, St. John the Baptist, Pittsburgh, PA
6/06/2011 – present: Chaplain, Little Sisters of the Poor
Summary: In a document dated July 7, 1995, it was reported that the son of a member of the Archdiocese had revealed that was fondled by Genizer in 1980 when he was 13. It was advised that the son’s parents were very involved in the church and were reputable and did not want to make the information public.
It was subsequently determined that because of the sexual allegation listed in his confidential file, Genizer would not be endorsed to serve as chaplain. Genizer was assured, however, that the allegation would not affect his current standing in the Diocese because the Diocese deemed it to be an “inconclusive allegation.”
After specific allegations of unnatural interest in young boys were made and documented in his file, Diocesan officials continued to write and sign letters advising that Genizer was a priest in “good standing.” A letter stated: “To the best of my knowledge, he has never engaged in sexual behavior inconsistent with priestly celibacy, nor had he ever acted in an inappropriate manner with minors.”
Charles R. Ginder
8/1940-9/1942: St. Gregory, Zelienople, PA and St. Mathias, Evans City, PA
9/1972-2/1946: Society of St. Suplice (NFI)
2/1946-6/1950: Saint’s Simon & Jude, Blairsville, PA
6/1950-12/1953: St. George, Pittsburgh, PA (South Side)
12/1953-6/1959: St. Joseph, Pittsburgh, PA (North Side)
12/1954-7/1962: Censor Librorum
6/1959-2/1961: St. Mary, New Castle, PA
2/1961-8/1962: School Sisters of St. Francis, Bellevue, PA
7/1962-7/1963: Health related leave of absence
8/1963-5/1964: Our Lady of Mercy Academy (NFI)
5/1964-6/1964: St. Januarius, Pittsburgh, PA
5/1964-6/1964: St. John the Baptist, Pittsburgh, PA
6/1964-1/1967: Sick Leave
1/1967-?: St. John the Baptist, Baden, PA
1970-6/1984: Sick Leave
Summary: Over the course of years, an adult male residing in Seattle, Wash. contacted the Diocese of Pittsburgh on multiple occasions, never providing details of his abuse, but he threatening to sue the Diocese. The male sent a letter stating he was taken to New York, New Jersey and Philadelphia by Ginder between 1958 and 1961. He did not provide details of any abuse, but advised that the details would be contained in a book that he planned to write. The male also advised that he was abused by another priest in Pittsburgh who now lived in Florida. He refused to name the other priest, however, in order to maintain “the element of surprise.”
In September 2005, the male warned the Diocese he would be in Pittsburgh in the near future and wanted to make the abuse publicly known. He advised that he had requested that CNN and 60 Minutes accompany him. In 2006, he called the Diocese to advise that he was expecting reimbursement for the cost of many years of counseling and medication that he has incurred due to abuse by Ginder.
On Nov. 28, 2007, the Diocese sent the man $4,092.00 for monthly insurance premiums. In a June 2008 letter stated that the Diocese had entered into a mediation process in connection with a lawsuit and that the man was to receive $16,000.00 as his portion of the resolution.
In 2002, a 50 -year -old male living in New Jersey reported that he had been abused by Ginder when he was between the ages of 15 and 17. The male further stated that he lived with Ginder for a short time and the relationship with Ginder and others was “out of control.” He described Ginder as “a physically abusive monster.”
James G. Graham
6/07/1966 – 1/23/1972: St. Lawrence O’Toole, Pittsburgh, PA
1/24/1972 – 5/29/1974: St. Elizabeth of Hungary, Pittsburgh, PA
5/30/1974 – 9/18/1978: St. Bernadette, Monroeville, PA
9/19/1978 – 4/13/2012: St. Lawrence O’Toole, Garfield, PA
4/13/2012 – 3/06/2015: Leave of Absence
Summary: A long-time female partner of a male victim who died of a drug overdose in 2012 verified a letter that he wrote wherein he detailed his abuse at the hands of Graham which started when he was 9. The abuse lasted two or three years. The female partner became aware of the abuse after the birth of her daughter when the victim refused to allow Graham to baptize baby.
The sister of a victim testified that when her brother was placed on a liver transplant list, she had several conversations with him about Graham. He told her about the intimacy and sex he had with Graham when he was 15. The victim died in 2002.
A third victim advised that on two occasions while he was playing pool, Graham came up behind him, lowered his pants and inserted his penis into the victim’s anus. The victim was 16 -years -old at the time.
All three allegations were deemed to be credible. Graham’s testimony before the Review Board was deemed not to be credible. The Review Board believed that Graham’s mental capacity was diminished due to his alcoholism.
William Hildebrand
No listed employment/work history
Summary: In May 2014, four adult males reported that they were abused by Brother William Hildebrand, who was a member of the Marianist Order. The records indicated that the Diocese attempted to reach out to the victims regarding counseling.
John S. Hoehl
1964: St. Mary Magdalene, Homestead, PA
1966: St. Francis Xavier, Pittsburgh, PA
1971: Quigley Catholic High School, Baden, PA
1985: Bishop Boyle High School, Homestead, PA
1985: St. John Joachim, Greenfield, PA
1986: Secretariat for Education, Pittsburgh, PA
1987: Shadyside Hospital, Pittsburgh, PA
Summary: On May 2, 1986, a 28-year-old male reported he had been sexually abused by Hoehl. He stated that from 1972, when he was a 14-year-old freshman at Quigley High School, until 1979, when he was a senior at Duquesne University, Hoehl fondled his genitals and they performed mutual masturbation and oral sex on each other on a regular basis. At the time this disclosure was made, a young man was living with Hoehl at the rectory at St. Joachim. Found within the rectory were various drug paraphernalia, condoms and other pornographic materials, including videos and literature.
In 1993, a 29 -year -old adult male reported that he had been sexually involved with Hoehl beginning in 1978 when he was 15. He stated he was sodomized on at least two occasions and that oral sex and mutual masturbation occurred on many occasions.
In 1997, a 29-year-old male reported that in 1976, when he was 9, Hoehl touched and rubbed his genitals and, performed oral sex on him. He stated that the sexual activity lasted until he was 18. On Sept. 22, 2000, the male filed a lawsuit against Hoehl and the Diocese in connection with the sexual abuse. On Dec. 14, 2007, the male’s parents received a $10,000 check for emotional and financial hardship suffered.
On April 26, 2002, a 33-year-old male reported sexual abuse by Hoehl at Hoehl’s private residence at Quigley in 1979 when he was 16. The male reported that Hoehl sexually abused him and provided him with drugs and alcohol until 1982.
In 2004, an adult male informed the Diocese that he was sexually abused by Hoehl when he was 16 and a sophomore at Quigley. He stated that in April 1978, a friend came out to tell him that a girl was in trouble in Hoehl’ s office. The two boys ran into the office where they saw her naked from the waist down. She was being held down by an older student and Hoehl was about to rape her. The boys helped her retrieve her clothes and wanted to get her out of the office as quickly as possible. Hoehl told them that he would release the girl if they stayed behind to take her place. They agreed. Hoehl locked the office on both sides and sodomized both boys.
Another victim came forward in 2004 to report that Hoehl had touched him inappropriately between 1980 and 1984. On April 21, 2008, the Diocese issued a check to the male in the amount of $10,000.00 as a pastoral gesture for the financial difficulties he had experienced.
The Diocese was also notified that Hoehl fondled the genitals of a 13-year-old boy in 1979 and approached the boy in the shower. These incidents occurred at Quigley and in a “cabin at a lake.” The victim received $40,000.00 from the Diocese to settle his part of a 32-victim lawsuit against the Diocese. He later received a check in the amount of $10,000 to help with his additional expenses.
Another Quigley student, who alleged previous abuse by Hoehl, reported that on graduation day, his diploma case was empty. Hoehl informed him that if he wanted his diploma, he needed to come to see him. The student never returned to get his diploma because he did not want to deal with Hoehl. During treatment, Hoehl admitted that he had been sexually involved with several high school students when he was Headmaster at Quigley.
On July 1, 1987, Hoehl was appointed as a chaplain at Shadyside Hospital. However, on November 29, 1988, he was informed by the Diocese that he could no longer continue in ministry. Hoehl resigned. After the Diocese withdrew his priestly faculties, he was provided with subsistence and medical benefits for 3 ½ years.
James Hopkins
Unknown employment history
Summary: In November 2012, the Diocese of Pittsburgh received information from an adult male about Hopkins, performing a “medical exam” on him when he was freshman at St. Fidelis Seminary High School. The exam involved the young man bending over naked in front of Hopkins and listening to Hopkins make creepy comments about his behind.
In 1995, Hopkins pleaded guilty to sexually molesting an altar boy in Camden County. He received a 10-year prison sentence and was ordered to register as a sex offender.
John J. Huber
6/1968-5/1973: St. Canice Church, Knoxville, PA
5/1973-5/1979: St. Joseph Church, Duquesne, PA
5/1979-6-1983: St. James Church, Sewickley, PA
6/1983-7/1984: St. Joseph Home for Aged, Pittsburgh, PA
7/1984-8/1985: St. Bernard, Mt. Lebanon, PA
8/1985-8/1991: St. Thomas Aquinas, California, PA
8/1991-12/1998: St. Catherine of Siena, Wireton, PA
Summary: An adult male reported that when he was in fourth or fifth grade, a priest by the name of Father Adams had touched him in his genital area. Sometime later, the boy went to confession and told Huber that he may be attracted to men. Huber responded that he should attend one-on-one counseling sessions. During one of those sessions, Huber performed oral sex on him and then gave him $20 afterwards. The male stated that this occurred on more than one occasion.
Edward G. Huff
5/22/1973 – 2/27/1978: Holy Innocents, Pittsburgh, PA
2/27/1978 – 6/29/1983: North American Martyrs, Monroeville, PA
6/29/1983 – 1/10/1987: St. Gabriel of the Sorrowful Mother, Whitehall, PA
1/10/1987 – 6/17/1991: St. Anthony, Bessemer, PA
6/17/1991 – 2/27/1992: St. Anselm, Swissvale, PA
2/27/1992 – 11/2/1992: Leave of Absence
11/2/1992 – 1/7/1993: Office for Chaplaincies and Campus Ministry
1/7/1993 – 2/16/1993: Leave of Absence
2/16/1993: Resigned
Summary: Records revealed that several victims provided similar accounts of Huff allowing them to drive his car while touching them inappropriately. On June 22, 1994, Huff was arrested and charged with several crimes in Lawrence County for conduct that occurred when he was a priest at St. Anthony’s. On Aug. 21, 1996, Huff pleaded guilty and was sentenced to serve 18 months to 5 years in prison. He was paroled on August 5, 1999.
There was a May 5, 2000 handwritten note (author unknown) in Huff’s file. The note stated that Huff, “admitted to touching 500 kids and targeting at least 1200 . . .”
Edward Joyce
3/15/1941 – 12/04/1946: Parochial Vicar, St. James, Wilkinsburg, PA
12/05/1946 — 6/15/1955: Parochial Vicar, St. Andrew, North Side, PA
6/16/1955 — 7/29/1959: Parochial Vicar, St. Titus, Aliquippa, PA
7/29/1959 — 10/05/1959: Parochial Vicar, St. Joseph, Sharpsburg, PA
10/06/1959 — 9/21/1959 (sic): Vic Enc, St. Joseph, Sharpsburg, PA
9/22/1959 — 7/22/1963: Pastor, St. Joseph, Sharpsburg, PA
7/23/1963 — 8/27/1968: Pastor, St. Joseph, North Side, PA
8/28/1968 — 1/11/1969: Chaplain, Sisters of St. Francis, Mt. Assisi, PA
Summary: In December 2002, an allegation of sexual abuse by Monsignor Joyce was made to the Allegheny County District Attorney’s Office. A male had reported to the Diocese of Pittsburgh that Joyce had inappropriately touched him from 1966 to 1968 at a church in Allegheny County. He stated that he and Joyce gave each other massages which eventually led to naked massages and heavy touching. On one occasion, he and Joyce were caught in a compromising position. After the incident, Joyce was quickly reassigned to an all-girls school.
Marvin Justi
1958-1969: St. Fidelis Seminary
1969-1972: Quigley High School, Ambridge, PA
1972: Good Shepard Catholic Church, Shawnee, KS
1980: St. Cecilia Catholic Church, Ambridge, PA
2002: St. Joseph Church, Cabot, PA
Summary: In August 2016, a woman reported that in June 1969, she was a 17-year-old nursing student at Sewickley Valley Hospital. During that time, Justi was a patient and she gave him a sponge bath. He became sexually aroused and insisted that she continue to wash his genitals. After that, Justi began sending her suggestive letters and notes. Her mother found the notes and reported Justi to his superior. In 1982, the woman was working at a physical therapy facility in Ambridge when Justi arrived as a patient. He proceeded to undress and refused to get dressed when she attempted to start the session. He was asked to leave and seek therapy elsewhere. In 1985, Justi appeared at the female’s house unannounced. She allowed him to enter. While there, he used the restroom. He then re -appeared in the living room naked with a freshly shaven genital area. He left after she picked up the telephone to call the police. Diocesan records contained little to no documentation on any investigation conducted by the Diocese of Pittsburgh.
Bernard J. Kaczmarczyk
6/13/1957-10/19/1959: Assistant, St. Robert Bellarmine, E. McKeesport PA
10/20/1959-5/30/1961: Assistant, St. Ladislaus, Natrona, PA
5/31/1961-9/21/1967: Assistant, St. Adalbert, South Side, PA
9/22/1967-9/19/1968: Assistant, St. Stanislaus, Ambridge, PA
9/20/1968-3/01/1970: Assistant, Holy Family, Lawrenceville, PA
3/01/1970-10/26/1992: Pastor, Holy Name of Mary, Donora, PA
10/30/1992: Leave of Absence
2/28/1994: Faculties withdrawn
11/1997-1/1998: Halfway house
6/1998: Suspended as a priest
Summary: On Feb. 8, 1994, a female alleged that Kaczmarczyk had sexually abused her three nephews, ages 11, 14 and 15, at the rectory in Donora and also at his home in Florida. She also reported that her nephew would frequently sleep with Kaczmarczyk, who wore his sister’s dresses as pajamas.
Joseph D. Karabin
1974 – 1979: Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Midland, PA
1979 – 1980: St. Joan of Arc, Library, PA
1980: St. Joseph the Worker, New Castle, PA
1980 – 1981: Holy Name, Duquesne, PA
1981 – 1986: St. Albert the Great, Baldwin, PA
1986 – 2002: Braddock Hospital, Braddock, PA
Summary: Karabin was accused of molesting two children on separate occasions in 1980 and 1985 at two different parishes. Karabin told his superiors that the second incident occurred because of the stress he was under from not having his own pastorate.
Treatment records noted Karabin was not a pedophile but had a “homosexual interest in boys 15 – 18” and that the “two incidents” of “acting out” were partially due to alcohol.
In October 1991, a third victim advised that he had been sexually abused by Karabin when he was approximately 13 to 14 years old and an altar boy. Karabin undressed him, fondled him and attempted anal sex with him.
Karabin resigned in 2002 but continued to receive sustenance and health benefits.
John Keegan
Employment history unknown
Summary: In April 2014, an adult male reported that from 1957 through 1961, while he was a student at North Catholic High School, Keegan fondled his genitals and masturbated him.
In May 2014 a second adult male reported that Keegan fondled his genitals in 1958 or 1959 while he was a student at North Catholic High School.
That same month, a fourth adult male reported incidents involving Keegan and Brother Hildebrand. The male stated that from 1956 through 1960, Keegan fondled his genitals when he was a minor attending North Catholic High School. Keegan also offered to “examine” the male’s penis because of the male’s masturbation habits. The male further reported that Hildebrand asked him whether he ever saw his sister naked. Hildebrand then attempted to fondle him sexually.
Again in May 2014, a sixth complaint from an adult male alleged Keegan fondled his genitals when he was a student in 1958 or 1959 at North Catholic High School. He also stated that Keegan asked to examine his genitals while they were together in the band pit area at the school.
All of the allegations were forwarded to the Allegheny County District Attorney’s Office.
Redacted – pending litigation
The name of the priest, where he served and the exact incident was entirely redacted in the grand jury report.
Henry Krawczyk
10/09/1978 — 6/29/1983: Parochial Vicar, St. Mary, McKeesport, PA
6/29/1983 — 6/12/1988: Parochial Vicar, Our Lady of Joy, Pittsburgh, PA
6/13/1988 — 10/26/1992: Parochial Vicar, St. Therese, Munhall, PA
10/26/1992 — 10/31/1994: Team Ministry, St. Maximillian, Homestead, PA
10/31/1994 — 6/23/2003: Pastor, St. Maximillian, Homestead, PA
6/23/2003 — present: Administrative Leave
Summary: In February 2005, Krawczyk pleaded guilty to one count of involuntary manslaughter, resulting from a cookout he held on June 17, 2003 where he supplied alcohol to several underage University of Pittsburgh football players. One of the players fell to his death from the roof of St. Anne.
Records reveal that on three other occasions, Krawczyk was accused of providing alcohol to minors.
In November 2006, a confidential memorandum state that two brothers reported that Krawczyk engaged in sexual activity with their younger brother. Their younger brother told them that he and Krawczyk would frequently get high and drunk together. On one occasion, he passed out and awoke to Krawczyk performing oral sex on him. The young man committed suicide in August 2006. The Diocese paid for or reimbursed the family for the man’s drug treatment and funeral expenses.
Redacted – pending litigation
The name of the priest, where he served and the exact incident was entirely redacted in the grand jury report.
Edward L. Kryston
5/30/1974-6/17/1979: Assistant, St. Luke, Carnegie, PA
6/18/1979-10/05/1980: Assistant, St. John, Unity, PA
10/06/1980-7/15/1984: Assistant, St Pius X, Pittsburgh, PA
7/16/1984-6/12/1988: Parochial Vicar, St. Martin, Pittsburgh, PA
6/13/1988-6/21/1989: Parochial Vicar, Our Lady of Joy, Holiday Park, PA
6/22/1989-1/11/1996: Parochial Vicar, Holy Trinity, Moon Run, PA
1/17/1996-9/23/1996: Leave of Absence
9/23/1996-8/27/1999: Parochial Vicar, St. Albert the Great, Baldwin, PA
8/27/1999: Pastor, St. Albert the Great, Baldwin, PA
Summary: Kryston was accused of and treated for an unnatural interest in girls ages 15 to 19 and sometimes younger. The president of the St. Pius Parish Council wrote to the Pittsburgh Diocese in May 1984 about receiving several complaints about Kryston’s “negative attitude, his lack of concern for the Parish, and his seemingly strong interest in young women.”
Kryston denied any inappropriate conduct or behavior. In December 1985, a concerned St. Pius teacher noted and reported: Kryston’s attention to eighth and ninth grade girls, while ignoring boys; his inviting girls to the rectory to talk at 11:15 p.m.; and circling the block of a young girl and then inviting her to accompany him alone on a shopping trip.
In January 1986, other documented concerns regarding Kryston included “drinking and fooling around with girls,” arranging a dinner for two in the rectory with an eighth-grade girl and asking a class how they would feel if they were naked answering the telephone.
There were pornographic magazines under Kryston’s bed and that he had pictures of a young girl from the school on his wall … in various poses, such as sitting under a tree, in a bikini. It was reported to the Diocese that Kryston had invited the girl on an overnight trip to an amusement park. They were to share the same motel room. The young girl’s parents refused to give Kryston permission to take their daughter on the trip.
Sister Mary Ann Lostoski, principal of the Holy Trinity school, reported Kryston was always around seventh- and eighth-grade girls and often smelled of alcohol.
Kryston was granted permission to withdraw for the active ministry in August 2002, with the promise the Diocese would continue to pay for his sustenance and benefits.
Anujit Kumar
4/13/2002: Parochial Vicar, India
9/2008: Missionary, St. Joan of Arc, South Park, PA
Summary: In September 2008, a minor female reported that Kumar had kissed her on her lips several times using his “tongue” and was “sucking her lips.” He then asked for her telephone number and gave her his business card along with a gift. Several other altar servers witnessed the incident. Kumar was interviewed by the Clergy Office concerning the incident and admitted to the conduct. He stated that his reason for kissing her inappropriately was that he was trying to “recruit her for the convent.” The incident was reported to the South Park Police Department but the victim and her parents declined to go forward with prosecution.
George Kurutz
9/21/1944 – 11/08/1944: St. Stephen, Pittsburgh, PA
11/09/1944 – 6/25/1952: St. Joseph, West Aliquippa/St. Catherine Parish, Wireton, PA
6/26/1952 – 6/15/1955: St. George, South Side, PA
6/16/1955 – 10/05/1955: Holy Trinity, McKeesport, PA
10/06/1955 – 4/10/1960: Immaculate Conception, Washington, PA
4/11/1960 – 5/30/1961: Our Lady of Consolation, Nemacolin/St. Mary Parish, Crucible/Sacred Heart, Rices Landing, PA
5/31/1961 – 5/07/1965: St. Lawrence O’Toole, Pittsburgh, PA
5/08/1965 – 6/06/1967: St. Michael, New Castle PA
6/07/1967 – 8/31/1976: St. Helen, East Pitsburgh, PA
9/01/1976: Resigned
A 47-year-old female stated that she and her sister were molested by Kurutz in the late 1950’s and early 1960’s. She stated their mother sent them to Kurutz at his new parish in New Castle when she was in sixth grade. She reported that more serious incidents occurred with her sister. She also advised that her sister walked in on their mother while she was performing oral sex on Kurutz.
Fidelis Lazar
1966 – 1969: St. Vincent / Latrobe, Instructor
1970 -1975: St. Bede / Bovard, Instructor
1975 – 1976: Sacred Heart / St. Mary, Instructor
08/16/1976 – 03/22/1981: St. Clare / Clairton, Parochial Vicar
03/23/1981 – 7/07/1982: St. Joan of Arc / Library, Parochial Vicar
07/08/1982 – 05/31/1984: St. Mary / New Castle, Parochial Vicar
06/01/1984 – 06/13/1986: St. Joseph / Bloomfield, Parochial Vicar
06/14/1984 – 04/23/1987: St. Teresa / Koppel, Parochial Vicar
04/23/1987 – 09/25/1989: Leave of Absence
09/25/1989: Withdrew from active priestly ministry
Summary: In October 1986, an adolescent male reported he had been sexually abused by Lazar in June 1986. Lazar initially denied the allegation, stating the family was “troubled” and was singling him out. In treatment, Lazar admitted being sexually active with children after his ordination.
In September 1994, another male contacted the Diocese and gave an in-person account of his abuse by Lazar. He reported that he was only 15 or 16 years of age at the time.
In March 2002, the Diocese received communication from a male asking for the status of Lazar. This male reported that when Lazar was a Benedictine monk in the 1960’s, Lazar abused him while he was at St. Vincent’s Preparatory School in Latrobe.
Redacted – pending litigation
The name of the priest, where he served and the exact incident was entirely redacted in the grand jury report.
Albert Leonard
1987: Parochial Vicar, Saint Ursula, Allison Park, PA
November 1993: Leave of Absence
Summary: In 1989 and 1993, the Diocese of Pittsburgh received complaints about Leonard’s behavior with children. In one case, parents expressed their concern about Leonard’s relationship with their 14-year-old son. In another case, parents expressed concern about Leonard’s relationship with their minor son and reported that he swam nude with boys.
In September 1994, Leonard attempted to obtain employment with Holy Family Institute, a residential treatment facility for children. The Diocese disclosed information regarding Leonard’s sexual history with minors to the institute. Leonard complained to the Diocese that the disclosure of that information had hindered his employment. The Diocese did not notify law enforcement of Leonard’s conduct.
Casimir F. Lewandowski
12/6/1945 – 10/23/1946: St. Matthew, Pittsburgh, PA (Southside)
10/24/1946 – 6/17/1953: St. Kieran, Pittsburgh, PA (Lawrenceville)
6/18/1953 – 9/16/1953: Mercy Hospital, Pittsburgh, PA
9/17/1953 – 6/7/1955: Catholic University, Washington, DC (Studies)
7/8/1954 – 9/1/1954: St. Leocadia Parish, Wilmerding, PA
6/16/1955 – 3/13/1964: Diocesan Charities
3/14/1964 – 12/16/1973: Madonna of Czestochowa, New Castle, PA
12/17/1973: Resigned
Summary: A 64 -year -old female reported to the Diocese of Pittsburgh in 2016 that she was sexually abused by Lewandowski when she was approximately 12 and in sixth grade. The incident occurred when he was assigned to Madonna of Czestochowa. The woman recalled walking upstairs in the rectory with Lewandowski. She was wearing a yellow dress and recalled his erect penis and semen on her dress. He said to her, “You are a dirty little girl, aren’t you?” The Diocese informed her that the Lawrence County District Attorney’s Office would need to be contacted. The Diocese reimbursed her for the cost of years of therapy.
John P. Maloney
5/27/1964 – 6/01/1971: Nativity of Our Lord, Pittsburgh, PA
6/02/1971 – 9/30/1973: St. Phillip, Pittsburgh, PA
10/01/1973 – 2/04/1979: St. Kieran, Pittsburgh, PA
2/05/1979 – 10/12/1982: St. Michael, Pittsburgh, PA
10/13/1982 – 9/03/2004: Holy Sepulcher, Butler, PA
Summary: On January 7, 2004, an adult male reported he had been sexually abused as a child by Maloney beginning when he was in the eighth grade and continuing into his freshman high school year. The man said he had a newspaper delivery route that included the St. Phillip rectory. He said Maloney would sometimes invite him into the rectory to sit and talk. This usually occurred around 5:30-6 a.m. The male reported that during these times together, Maloney would take photographs of him, first fully clothed but eventually in his underwear. The man said he began delivering papers at 3 a.m. to avoid Maloney. He said sometimes Maloney still invited him into the rectory. The man said he eventually told his mother, who did not believe the abuse allegations.
On Jan. 9, 2004, Maloney was placed on administrative leave and he resigned as pastor at Holy Sepulcher. On Sept. 3, 2004, Maloney’s priestly faculties were withdrawn.
The victim said he befriended another priest in high school, his freshman religion class teacher “Dom McGee.” He said in his sophomore around 1973 he went to McGee’ s parents home to help McGee paint. While there, he went into the bathroom to use the toilet while McGee was in the shower. McGee became extremely upset, got out of the shower, grabbed him, pulled his pants down and masturbated him. McGee then said, “Now how do you like that, don’t you ever walk in on me again!”
On Jan. 15, 2004, the man’s brother reported he had been abused by McGee on one occasion while sitting on the couch. He stated that he fell asleep and awoke to find McGee groping his genitals.
Julius May
No employment history given
Summary: In May 2011, an adult male reported when he was a student at North Catholic High School during the 1963-1964 school year, he had developed a medical condition known as orchitis which is a form of mumps that settles in the testicles. He stated that May, who was a counselor at the high school, demanded to conduct a medical examination of his genitals. He refused and left May’s office.
In May 2014, a 66-year-old male reported that he was inappropriately touched on the leg by May when he was a student at North Catholic High School during the 1962-1963 school year. He said the principal, when informed, passed off the experience as May just being friendly.
Dominic McGee
Employment history unknown
Summary: The grand jury was provided little to no information on McGee. Three internal Diocese of Pittsburgh memorandums revealed that in January 2004 a sexual allegation was made against McGee wherein an adult male alleged that McGee masturbated him when he was a high school student in the early- to mid-1970s at Canevin High School in Allegheny County. The male’s younger brother further advised that McGee groped his genitals while he slept on a couch. The allegations were forwarded to the Allegheny County District Attorney’s Office.
Donald W. McIlvane
6/26/1952-6/12/1957: Parochial Vicar, St. Stephen, Pittsburgh, PA
6/13/1957-10/31/1960: Parochial Vicar, St. Paul Cathedral, Pittsburgh, PA
11/01/1960-6/26/1962: Parochial Vicar, Resurrection, Pittsburgh, PA
6/27/1962-4/20/1966: Chaplain Correctional Institution, Allegheny County Jail
4/21/1966-6/07/1976: Administrator, St. Richard, Pittsburgh, PA
6/08/1976-11/22/1985: Pastor, Corpus Christi, Pittsburgh, PA
11/23/1985-6/01/1992: Pastor, Presentation of Virgin Mary, Midland, PA
6/01/1992-12/01/1992: Sabbatical at St. John Fisher, Pittsburgh, PA
12/01/1992-1/22/1993: Awaiting Assignment at St. John Fisher, Pittsburgh, PA
1/22/1993-6/27/1994: Parochial Vicar (Part-time), St. John Fisher, Pittsburgh, PA
6/27/1994-12/30/1994: Chaplain, Motherhouse at Sisters of Divine Providence, Allison Park, PA
9/29/2008-12/15/2008: Leave of Absence
Summary: On July 22, 2008, a 43-year-old man reported that in 1973 he was in the third grade at St. Richard’s and served as an altar boy. One day he was not feeling well and McIIvane escorted him up to a bedroom in the rectory. After he lay down, McIIvane began to rub his stomach and thighs, then started to rub his penis through his clothing. McIIvane then unzipped his pants and performed oral sex on him. He said Mcllvane gave him $5. The male reported that between 1973 and 1977, McIIvane performed oral sex on him at least 40 times per year and that he was always paid afterwards with money from the parish donations.
On Sept. 9, 2008, the Diocese provided the male with $5,000 to help him through some additional financial difficulties. The money was not intended to be considered as any type of reimbursement or “settlement” related to his claim. A month later, the Diocesan Review Board met and reviewed the allegations. The Board determined that the allegation could not be substantiated because the information was inconclusive and unable to be verified. The Board then recommended Mcllvane be restored to priestly ministry.
Thomas McKenna
5/31/1972 – 5/21/1973: Parochial Vicar, St. Anselm, Swissvale, PA
5/22/1973 – 2/13/1978: Parochial Vicar, Immaculate Conception, Washington, PA
2/14/1978 – 10/01/1978: Chaplain, Marian Manor Nursing
10/02/1978 – 2/04/1979: Parochial Vicar, St. Maurice, Forest Hills, PA
11/01/1978 – 2/04/1979: Leave of absence, Health reasons
2/05/1979 – 8/15/1982: Parochial Vicar, St. Kieran, Lawrenceville, PA
8/16/1982 – 5/31/1984: Parochial Vicar, St. John Fisher, Churchill, PA
6/01/1984 – 9/11/1986: Parochial Vicar, Holy Innocents, Sheraden, PA
9/12/1986 – 7/21/1987: Chaplain, Sewickley Valley Hospital, PA
7/22/1987 – 8/22/1988: Chaplain, Forbes Regional Hospital, PA
8/22/1988 – 5/23/1994: Pastor, St. Edward, Blawnox, PA
5/23/1994 – 1/05/1998: Pastor, Our Lady of Fatima, Hopewell, PA
1/05/1998 – 7/31/1998: Chaplain, SCI Pittsburgh, PA
8/31/1998 – 10/30/1998: Asst. Chaplain, Allegheny University Medical Center, PA
10/30/1998: Administrator, St. Patrick – St. Stanislaus, Pittsburgh, PA
9/13/2004: Withdrew from active priestly ministry
Summary: Two teenage brothers claimed to have been sexually assaulted by McKenna in the 1970s. An October 1996 Diocesan memorandum documented that McKenna was confronted with several allegations of improper sexual activity. On Oct.18, 1999, a lawsuit was filed against McKenna by an inmate incarcerated at the State Correctional Institution at Pittsburgh alleging McKenna had sexually assaulted him while he was in prison. In May 2002, the Diocese of Pittsburgh received a report from a woman who stated that McKenna had sexually abused her son in 1975. No other documentation was found in the file.
In December 2004, a final summary of treatment for McKenna was diagnosed with Ephebophilia, an attraction to teenagers.
Albert McMahon
7/05/1961- 7/01/1964: Team Ministry at St. Pamphilus, Beechview, PA
Unknown – 9/14/1967: Parochial Vicar at Our Lady Help of Christians, Pittsburgh, PA
Unknown – 2004: Province of the Immaculate Conception, New York
10/2004: Removed from active ministry
Summary: On April 22, 2004, a 54-year-old female reported she was sexually abused by McMahon when she was approximately 11. She explained that she went to St. Pamphilus to play and “Father Albert” always showed her a lot of attention. She said that on a few occasions, he would have her sit on his lap and fondle her breasts and genitals. She noted that McMahon smelled of alcohol.
On Jan. 10, 2014, a 63-year-old male reported that in the mid-1960s, when he was approximately 11 to 14, he served as an altar boy at St. Pamphilus. He stated that “Father Albert” would invite the altar boys to his room on Saturdays to wrestle. The man said, to the best of his knowledge, Father Albert would always invite the boys to wrestle with him individually, never in a group. The male reported that when they would wrestle, McMahon would always get on top of him and that McMahon would always have an erection.
On Feb. 5, 2014, a 64-year-old male reported that when he was approximately 12 to 13 he would wrestle with McMahon. He recalled that McMahon would have an erect penis and would attempt to put it in his “behind.”
No information could be located within McMahon’s files as to whether McMahon was confronted with the allegations.
John J. McMahon
12/05/1940-1/14/1942: Parochial Vicar, Holy Family, Latrobe, PA
1/15/1942-6/17/1953: Parochial Vicar, St. Mary Mercy, Pittsburgh, PA
1/15/1942-6/17/1953: CCD Assistant, St. Mary Mercy, Pittsburgh, PA
6/18/1953-6/12/1957: Parochial Vicar, St. John the Baptist, Pittsburgh, PA
6/13/1957-2/19/1958: Parochial Vicar, St. Sylvester, Brentwood, PA
2/20/1958-1/19/1960: Parochial Vicar, St. Peter, Pittsburgh, PA
1/20/1960-6/07/1960: Parochial Vicar, St. Catherine, Pittsburgh, PA
6/08/1960-6/14/1970: Pastor, North American Martyr, Monroeville, PA
6/15/1970-6/30/1984: Pastor, Resurrection, Pittsburgh, PA
6/30/1984: Retired
Summary: On June 14, 2004, a therapist and her client, an adult female, met with representatives of the diocese. The female explained that between 1969 and 1976 she was molested by McMahon and another priest whose name was redacted from the grand jury report. She advised that her recollection of the events was not completely clear but she estimated that it occurred when she was 7 to 15 years old. She stated that the molestation took place on the second floor of the rectory where the two priests maintained private residences. She could recall being with McMahon when he was naked. McMahon encouraged her to touch him in inappropriate areas of his body. On other occasions, other children were present and McMahon encouraged them to touch each other.
The female reported that the abuse by McMahon and the other priest progressed over time from touching and fondling to sexual intercourse.
Frank Meder
Marianist Community. No other employment history listed.
Summary: On Aug. 1, 2011, an adult female reported that Brother Meder inappropriately touched her in the late 1950s when she was approximately 8 or 9. She said Meder would invite the Troy Hill neighborhood children into the North Catholic High School to give them leftovers from the cafeteria such as drinks or candy. She stated that she followed Meder into his office and sat on his lap. He then fondled her. She stated that this abuse occurred to many children who visited the school.
On April 6, 2014, an adult male reported he also had been abused by Meder when he was approximately 10 or 11 in 1953 or 1954. He said that Meder invited the Troy Hill neighborhood children into North Catholic High School to see his stamp collection on Saturdays. Meder then took each child into his office behind the kitchen and molested them. He reported that this occurred for at least two years. He also reported abuse by Brother Hildebrand.
On May 5, 2014, another adult male reported that between 1955 and 1957 at North Catholic High School, when he was approximately 8 to 10, Meder offered to cut his and his brother’s hair to help his mother save money. During these monthly, Saturday haircuts, Meder would rub the boys’ thighs and smack their buttocks. Meder would then give them a bag of chips and some pop. The man’s brother confirmed this information.
On May 7, 2014 a third adult male reported that in the mid-1960s at North Catholic High School when he was approximately 9 to 10 Meder invited him and other children from the Troy Hill neighborhood into the school where he took each child into his office, one at a time. He reported Meder gave them candy, but only after he spanked them. This occurred on approximately six occasions.
On May 8, 2014, a fourth adult male reported that in 1953 or 1954 when he was 10 or 11, Meder invited the children into North Catholic High School on Saturdays. Meder often gave the children pop and candy. He would then line the children up, and have them take turns sitting on his lap in a rocking chair in his office. The man recalled that as a child, he “always wondered what was in Brother Franks’ pants.” When he got older, he realized that Frank had an erection. He also provided information about abuse by Brother Keegan.
Redacted – pending litigation
The name of the priest, where he served and the exact incident was entirely redacted in the grand jury report.
Arthur R. Merrell
Not specified Chaplain, Allegheny County Jail and Shuman Juvenile Detention Center
2/20/1998 Resigned
Summary: In September 1997, the diocese received a report that Merrell had inappropriately touched a boy under the age of 15. Merrell admitted to the inappropriate sexual act and withdrew from the priestly ministry in February 1998. The Diocese did not forward the information to the Allegheny County District Attorney’s Office.
In a confidential memorandum dated July 2014, Merrell minimized his inappropriate actions with minors and asked the diocese for money. The diocese granted Merrell’s request for a “charitable gift of money” in the sum of $5,000.
Redacted – pending litigation
The name of the priest, where he served and the exact incident was entirely redacted in the grand jury report.
Joseph Mueller
7/05/1983 – 7/14/1984: Parochial Vicar, St. Bernard, Mt. Lebanon, PA
7/15/1984 – 6/16/1986: Parochial Vicar, Holy Spirit, West Mifflin, PA
6/16/1986 – 1/22/1987: In Residence, Cardinal Wright Center
1/23/1987 – 2/1988: St. John’s Hospital, Ministry
11/29/1988 – 2/24/2003: Administrative Leave
2/24/2003: Withdrew from Active Ministry
Summary: In April 1986, a young man advised that when he was approximately 13 to 14, Mueller attempted to remove or pull down his shorts on several occasions. This occurred when he stayed overnight with Mueller at the Holy Spirit rectory.
In December 1986, in a letter to the diocese, medical staff stated that they stood by their recommendation Mueller “not work with children or adolescents.” As of November 1988, Mueller’s faculties were withdrawn.
Lawrence O’Connell
7/03/1930-7/21/1948 (sic): Parochial Vicar, Annunciation, North Side, PA
1/04/1940-7/23/1941: Administrator, Annunciation, North Side, PA
3/10/1946-3/27/1946: Vicar ENC, Annunciations, North Side, PA
7/22/1948-10/16/1948: Vicar ENC PRO TEM, Master Dolorosa, Chicora, PA
10/16/1948-6/25/1952: Pastor, Master Dolorosa, Chicora, PA
6/26/1952-6/28/1983: Pastor, St. Gabriel, Whitehall, PA
6/29/1983: Resigned
Summary: On Jan. 7, 2004, an adult female alleged that O’Connell sexually abused her on numerous occasions when she was approximately 11 to 13. She stated that she and a friend worked in the rectory at St. Gabriel on Mondays, counting the loose change from the Sunday services. She stated that O’Connell would ask her to stay behind and then invite her into his office where he would touch her inappropriately, French-kiss her and have her perform oral sex on him.
She reported that the abuse occurred once a week for over a year. O’Connell told her; “You are special and this is our special time together.” He also told her not to tell anyone about their secret because otherwise it would not be special anymore. Additionally, he told her he loved her.
She stated that she remembers the feeling of dread that she had on Sunday nights knowing that she would be subjected to the sexual abuse the next day. Although she told her parents about the abuse many years later, they did not pursue the subject.
On April 28, 2004, a local reporter who had been a member of O’Connell’s parish confirmed that she was among his victims.
Thomas M. O’Donnell
6/1960-5/1964: St. Kieran, Lawrenceville, PA
5/1964-6/1966: St. John the Evangelist, Pittsburgh, PA
6/1966-8/1971: St. Norbert, Pittsburgh, PA
9/1971-4/1975: St. Clare, Clairton, PA
5/1975-6/1983: Annunciation, Pittsburgh, PA
6/1983-7/2000: St. Wendelin, Carrick, PA
7/2000-9/2001: St. Maximilian Kolbe, Homestead, PA
9/2001-11/2005: St. John Vianney, Pittsburgh, PA
11/2005-8/2006: St. Cyril of Alexandria, Pittsburgh, PA
8/2006-7/2014 St. Mary of Mercy, Pittsburgh, PA
7/2014 – Present Epiphany, Pittsburgh, PA
Summary: In 1988, parents complained to administrators at St. Wendelin that O’Donnell was requiring boys, who were around the age of 12, to shower after basketball games and get weighed while nude. Many parents expressed displeasure that all of this was occurring while O’Donnell was present in the locker room and shower areas. Administrators told O’Donnell not to be in the locker room in the future.
In early December 1988, O’Donnell was informed of the complaints against him and ordered to disassociate himself from the supervision of the athletic programs. O’Donnell also was directed to inform his coaching staff that showers and weigh-ins were not mandatory.
From late December 1988 through mid-March 2002, parents continued to report to the Diocese that O’Donnell had engaged in inappropriate behavior with children. That included allegations of sharing beds with students while on trips, holding sexual conversations and having a male student wash O’Donnell’s dog while nude.
O’Donnell continued to violate a diocese order not to have any contact with children.
In January 2014, O’Donnell requested permission to attend a memorial mass performed by the United States Navy. The Navy required that a diocesan representative provide a letter of good standing in order to attend. The diocese provided a letter of good standing and a form indicating O’Donnell’s files had been reviewed and that “No accusations of misconduct have ever been made against him, nor has he ever been involved in any incident, to my knowledge, which has led to potential or public scandal;” and “To the best of my knowledge, he has never engaged in sexual behavior inconsistent with priestly celibacy, nor has he ever acted in an inappropriate manner with minors.”
William P. O’Malley, III
6/15/1970-5/23/1973: Assistant, St. Jerome, Charleroi, PA
5/22/1973-9/14/1978: Assistant, St. Canice, Pittsburgh (Knoxville), PA
9/15/1978-3/28/1982: Assistant, St. Francis de Sales, McKees Rocks, PA
3/29/1982-11/15/1985: Assistant, St. Paul, Butler, PA
11/16/1985-8/24/1992: Pastor, St. Conrad, Meridian, PA
8/25/1992-8/10/1995: Auditor-Assessor Tribunal, Diocese of Pittsburgh
8/11/1995-6/29/1997: Pastor at Devine Mercy, Beaver Falls, PA
6/30/1997-12/14/1997: Pastor at St. Irenaeus, Oakmont, PA
12/15/1997-11/15/1998: Requested Leave of Absence for Personal Reasons
11/16/1998-5/18/2003: Canonical Consultant Tribunal, Diocese of Pittsburgh
5/19/2003: Withdrawn from active Priestly Ministry
Summary: On April 21, 1991, the Diocese received a complaint that O’Malley was having young people spend too much time at the St. Conrad rectory. On this same date, two ministers relayed allegations that O’Malley had given an underage boy numerous gifts, including remote control cars, electronic devices, use of O’Malley’s credit card, and at least one trip to the Bahamas. O’Malley denied any wrongdoing.
An audit discovered that O’Malley and a teenager had a joint bank account together and that the boy stayed at the rectory and was the primary user of new guest furniture that had been purchased by O’Malley.
On Dec. 23, 1993, an adult male reported that he was sexually assaulted by O’Malley when he was approximately 22. On December 12, 1997, an adult male advised that he was sexually abused by O’Malley in 1978 when he was approximately 11 to 12. He stated that O’Malley provided him with alcohol and then, after he went to bed, O’Malley got into bed with him, removed his shorts, and fondled his genitals.
In December 1997, O’Malley was granted a leave of absence and sent for treatment.
On Jan. 12, 1998, a confidential memorandum advised that O’Malley was given a diagnosis of “ephebophilia,” based on his admitted sexual interest in adolescents and that O’Malley was at a high risk for seeking emotional gratification with adolescents.
On Feb. 12, 1998, a letter was sent from a psychiatrist regarding O’Malley noted that O’Malley “describes no sexual interest or experiences with any youngster who was not a teenager” and that “the incidents that occurred number 5 or less, were never repeated with the same individual, and never included anything more than touching with his hands.” The doctor further stated that no sexual activity with minors had reoccurred since 1982 and that O’Malley should be allowed to return to his ministry.
On Feb. 20, 1998, a confidential letter advised that during treatment O’Malley stated that he had a fantasy for “well-built 16-, 17- or 18-year-olds,” along with a continued overinvolvement with youth, and an inappropriate preoccupation with things that attract youth.
From April 5, 2002 to Jan. 13, 2006, six additional victims independently came forward to report that they were sexually assaulted by O’Malley. Three advised they were sexually abused in the 1970s when their ages ranged from 8 to 14. The three remaining victims advised that they were sexually assaulted in the mid-1990s and as recently as 1999. These three victims ranged in age from 11 to 17.
Ernest Paone
No further information on Paone was listed in the grand jury report.
George Parme
7/22/1948 – 2/6/1952: St. Peter, Butler, PA
2/7/1952 – 1/30/1957: St. Aloysius, Wilmerding, PA
1/31/1957 – 8/11/1958: Presentation BVM, Midland, PA
8/12/1958 – 10/15/1958: No Assignment
10/16/1958 – 1/19/1960: Most Holy Name, Troy Hill
1/20/1960 – 6/7/1960: No Assignment, in residence at St. Patrick, Strip District
6/8/1960 – 10/13/1963: St. Catherine, Beechview, PA
10/14/1963 – 12/13/1963: St. Agnes, Oakland, PA
12/14/1963 – 5/26/1964: St. Joseph, North Side, PA
5/27/1964 – 1/30/1968: Mt. Nazareth Academy, Bellevue, PA
1/31/1968 – 11/17/1969: Mother of Good Council, Brushton, PA
11/18/1969 – 11/14/1974: St. Louis and St. Pascal, Argentine
11/15/1974 – 6/19/1989: St. Cecilia, Glassport, PA
Summary: According to a lawsuit, the victim served as an altar boy at St. Aloysius. In 1954, when the victm was approximately 13 years old, Parme fondled his genitals while he was getting dressed before mass in the sacristy. It was also alleged that abuse occurred in Parme’ s car. The abuse continued for one year.
The Diocese agreed to pay a total amount of $1.25 Million to 31 plaintiffs in the lawsuit.
Paul E. Pindel
6/21/1951-12/03/1952: St. Stanislaus, Ambridge, PA
12/04/1952-12/16/1953: St. John Cantius, Sharpsburg, PA
12/17/1953-6/12/1957: St. Robert Bellarmine, E. McKeesport, PA
6/13/1957-6/09/1959: Holy Family, Pittsburgh, PA
6/10/1059-12/07/1960: Holy Angels, Hays, PA
12/08/1960-6/06/1966: St. William, E. Pittsburgh, PA
6/07/1966-3/27/1969: St. Martin, Pittsburgh, PA
3/28/1969-11/01/1971: St. Rose of Lima, Darlington, St. Ann, New Galilee
11/02/1971-10/13/1973: Chaplain, Gilmary School, Coraopolis, PA
10/14/1973-12/09/1985: St. Genevieve, Canonsburg, PA
12/10/1985-7/06/1989: St. Hyacinth, Pittsburgh, PA
7/06/1989-2/26/1991: Leave of Absence (Brain Tumor)
Summary: In April 2012, an adult male alleged Pindel inappropriately touched him when he was between 13 and 15 from 1957 through 1960 in Allegheny County and Butler County. The victim also recalled going to a drive-in where Pindel performed oral sex on him. Even after Pindel was transferred, he would continue to go to the victim’s house, take the victim places and often give the victim money.
In May 2003, the Diocese received an allegation that Pindel engaged in inappropriate sexual contact with a minor who was an eighth grade student at St. William around 1965. According to the victim, once he entered high school, Pindel had senior boys threaten and beat him up so that he would not disclose the prior sexual contact. According to the victim, he attempted several times to discuss what happened to him but was told it would never go anywhere because they would believe a priest over a boy. The victim attempted to talk to another priest and was told that he should be ashamed of himself.
In August 2011, it was reported that Pindel engaged in inappropriate sexual contact with a minor between the ages of 6 and 9 between 1980 and 1984 in Washington County. The victim stated that the abuse began when he was 6. He related that he would be pulled out of class by Pindel and taken to the rectory where he would be sexual assaulted.
Pittsburgh Priest #1
Omitted
Summary: In 2004, a priest had a discussion with a TV reporter who said they were preparing to do a story about a World War II veteran who said he was sexually abused by a priest 70 years earlier. While the priest was never mentioned in the memorandum, he did state that the priest in question died in 1958.
Francis Pucci
6/13/1957: Parochial Vicar, St. Vitus, New Castle, PA
11/29/1961: Parochial Vicar, Our Lady of Mount Carmel, Braddock, PA
6/17/1962: Parochial Vicar, St. Vitus, New Castle, PA
5/13/1965: Parochial Vicar, St. Mary, McKeesport, PA
6/07/1966: Parochial Vicar, Epiphany, Uptown, PA
6/10/1968: Headmaster, Lawrenceville Catholic
3/28/1969: South Side Catholic, Consolidation
6/15/1970: Administration, St. Januarius, Renton, PA
5/22/1972: Pastor, St. Eugene, Liberty Boro, PA
7/02/1973: Pastor, Purification, Ellwood City, PA
10/06/1980: Pastor, St. Joseph, Coraopolis, PA
9/30/1981: Pastor, St. Alphonsus, McDonald, PA
7/01/1984: Pastor, Our Lady of Lourdes, Burgettstown, PA
2/15/1987: Pastor, Immaculate Conception, Washington, PA
10/29/1987: Leave of Absence, Health reasons
2/10/1992: Retired
Summary: Pucci was named in the following allegations:
In 2002, a man revealed that Pucci fondled him to the point of ejaculation in 1962.
In 2004, a man said Pucci inappropriately touched him in 1988. This occurred when he was a minor.
In 2007, a man reported Pucci engaged in inappropriate sexual touching with him when he was a minor at a church in Corapolis.
In November 2014, a man said Pucci touched him sexually in 1981 and 1982 at a church in Corapolis. He was an altar server during that time, and Pucci would instruct him to wear either nothing or jock straps underneath his cassocks.
In December 2014, another man said Pucci sexually touched him when he was a minor around 1981 and 1982 at a church in Allegheny County.
In May 2016, Washington County District Attorney’s Office received a report from an anonymous man who said Pucci touched him sexually in 1983 at a church in McDonald.
In October 2016, a man reported Pucci sexually touched him while at a church in Coraopolis in 1980.
John W. Rebel
5/13/1965 – 6/6/1967: St. Bernard, Mt. Lebanon, PA
6/7/1967 – 8/27/1967: St. Veronica, Ambridge, PA
8/28/1967 – 9/19/1968: St. Joseph, Verona, PA
9/20/1968 – 5/22/1973: St. Michael, Elizabeth, PA
5/23/1973 – 8/15/1974: Leave of Absence
6/8/1973 – 8/15/1974: St. Kieran, Lawrenceville, PA
8/16/1974 – 11/4/1976: Assumption, Bellevue, PA
11/5/1976 – 6/29/1981: St. Margaret Mary, Moon Township, PA
6/30/1981 – 7/7/1982: St. Anselm, Swissvale, PA
7/8/1982 – 7/2/2001: St. Killian, Mars, PA
7/2/2001 – 6/15/2002: St. Bartholomew, Penn Hills, PA, Sabbatical Second Semester of 2001-2002
1/15/2002 – 7/3/2002: Sabbatical at North American College in Rome
7/3/2002 – 9/1/2010: St. James the Apostle, Bedford, PA
Summary: The diocese received a report that Rebel molested a boy in a boy’s bedroom when he was 10 or 12 years old in the 1970s following a home mass. In 2009, the diocese met with the parents of the victim, who said that their son (now deceased) told them of the abuse years after it happened.
They stated that Rebel would often drive their son home after CCD and, while the parents didn’t know what was going on in the rides, it became clear from their son’s level of emotion that sexual abuse may have occurred.
Later in 2009, Rebel met with the diocese about the allegations, and he said that while he remembered the parents, he didn’t remember the children nor having a home mass.
In May 2009, the parents met with Bishop Zubik, who told the parents he spoke to Rebel and heard his denial. Zubik felt that Rebel was telling the truth, and while Zubik believed what the son had alleged, he felt that perhaps the abuse was committed by another priest.
After reviewing church records, it was in all likelihood that another priest was the parish priest at the time when the abuse occurred, and advised that the church would conduct more research.
Based on the files presented, it did not appear any further investigation was conducted.
Raymond R. Rhoden
11/05/1976-7/07/1982: Parochial Vicar, Nativity of Our Lord, Pittsburgh, PA
7/08/1982-6/21/1989: Parochial Vicar, St. Francis of Assisi, Finleyville, PA
8/25/1988-6/21/1989: Chaplain, part-time, Monongahela Valley Catholic High School,
Monongahela, PA
6/21/1989-10/05/1992: Chaplain, part-time, Our Lady of Sacred Heart High School,
Coraopolis, PA
6/21/1989-10/05/1992: Parochial Vicar, St. Joseph, Coraopolis, PA
10/05/1992-10/26/1992: Administrator, St. Philip Neri, Donora, PA
10/26/1992-6/30/1997: Team Ministry -Moderator, Our Lady of the Valley, Donora, PA
6/30/1997-5/17/2002: Pastor, St. James, Sewickley, PA
5/17/2002: Administrative Leave
7/05/2002: Withdrew from active priestly ministry; Retired
Summary: In 2002, the parents of an adult male met with diocesan officials in Pittsburgh to report that their son was sexually abused by Rhoden between 1976 and 1977. Rohden was considered a family friend, and that he spent a lot of time at their home. The son informed them that Rhoden fondled him and performed oral sex over a number of months when he was 16 or 17 years old.
The parents said they spoke to Bishop McDowell about the sexual abuse, and he told them that he would take care of the allegations. However, they never heard from him again.
Carl Roemele
5/1963-5/1964: St. Joseph, Mt. Oliver, PA
5/1964-6/1966: St. Alexis, Wexford, PA
6/1966-8/1967: St. William, Pittsburgh, PA
8/1967-5/1972: St. Joseph, Duquesne, PA
5/1972-9/1975: St. Agatha, Bridgeville, PA
9/1975-2/1976: Allegheny Community College, Pittsburgh, PA
9/1975-2/1976: Epiphany, Pittsburgh, PA
9/1975-2/1976: Allegheny County Jail, Pittsburgh, PA
2/1976-8/1976: Leave of absence; voluntary laicization
Summary: The diocese received a letter in June 1967 that revealed Roemele was engaged in sexual misconduct with four different young boys. The woman said Roemele made sexual advances toward her son, his friend and then another boy in a separate incident. She said that while at a camp site, Roemele told him a fourth boy to shower after swimming. Roemele then entered the shower, and when Roemele dropped the soap, he tried to bite the boy.
In mid-August 2004, another man said he was abused by Roemele while an altar boy at St. Joseph. He said Roemele would grope and fondle him and two other altar servers before mass. The victim said the abuse would last about 20 to 30 minutes each time, over the course of a year.
In October 2010, the diocese received a phone call from a mother who said her son was sexually abused by Roemele when he was 10. Roemele would take them to a cabin she referred to as “Mo’s cabin.” She explained that her son died in 2003 after complications from alcoholism, adding that he began drinking in 1969 when he was just 10 years old.
When confronted in early 2009 about some of the allegations, Roemele ultimately denied all of them, saying that they likely misinterpreted his actions towards them as sexually abusive and they were not meant in that way.
Michael C. Romero
10/13/1977-2/23/1978: Parochial Vicar, North American Martyrs, Monroeville, PA
2/24/1978-7/07/1982: Parochial Vicar, Immaculate Conception, Washington, PA
7/08/1982-6/02/1985: Parochial Vicar, St. Veronica, Ambridge, PA
6/03/1985-3/15/1990: Parochial Vicar, St. Basil, Carrick, PA
3/15/1990-6/17/2000: Leave of Absence
Summary: The first allegation of abuse came in 2013. The diocese received a phone call from a woman who said her boyfriend was sexually abused by Romero when he was assigned to Immaculate Conception. The woman said her boyfriend’s mother contacted the diocese to report the abuse, but no report about the allegation was made at that time.
The mother told the diocese and said that Romero bought her son all kinds of gifts, including a ski jacket.
In 2013, the son contacted the diocese to report “questionable behavior” from when he was a child. He said that “things” happened, but he was reluctant to talk about anything else. Romero and another priest were often heard talking about masturbation in front of him and the other young boys, the man said.
A 2012 memorandium included information about a second abuse allegation against Romero, who said he was sexually abused by Romero while at Immaculate Conception. No other information about that victim was provided.
Oswald E. Romero
1955-1965: St. Francis Borja HS, Quito, Ecuador
1961-1965: Jesuit College & University, Quito, Ecuador
1961-1965: Catholic University, Quito, Ecuador
1966-1977: University of Pittsburgh
1977-1993: Chaplin, St. Joseph House of Hospitality, Pittsburgh, PA
1993: Retired
1991-1997: St. Mary of Mercy, (Confessor), Pittsburgh, PA
Summary: In April 2006, a 53-year-old man accused Romero of sexually abusing him between the ages of 13 and 14 (1966 or 1967). The victim attended St. Regis in Oakland and was familiar with Romero, where Romero assisted from time to time. The victim said that during a driving lesson, Romero had the victim sit on his lap, but he was driven home without incident. During a second lesson, Romero began to run his leg and eventually his genitals. Romero proceeded to perform oral sex on him. After the incident, he jumped out of the car and fled home.
David Scharf
6/03/1985: Parochial Vicar, St. Michael Archangel, Butler, PA
6/15/1987: Parochial Vicar, Our Lady of Grace, Scott Township, PA
2/11/1992: Parochial Vicar, Our Lady of Fatima, Hopewell Township, PA
1/27/1997: Parochial Vicar, St. Robert Bellarmine, East McKeesport, PA
8/31/1998: Sabbatical
1/20/1999: Parochial Vicar, St. Hugh, Carmichaels, PA
12/13/1999: Pastor, St. Philomena, Beaver Falls, PA
11/21/2003: Leave of Absence
8/17/2009: Chaplain, Sisters of St. Joseph, Baden, PA
Summary: In 2002, several boys and men complained of Scharf massaging their feet. In 2003, Scharf requested a leave of absence to attend St. Luke Institute for evaluation in order to “end accusations. He was granted that. In 2005, the staff noted his discharge from a halfway house that he did not successfully complete the program and was at a high risk for re-offending. In 2007 and 2008, he wrote requests to be re-instated into the ministry, but both requests were denied.
Richard Scherer
6/30/1949 – 6/09/1954: Assistant, St. Charles, Donora
6/10/1954 – 3/03/1964: Assistant, St. Anne, Castle Shannon
3/04/1964 – 2/02/1965: Assistant, St. Coleman, Turtle Creek
2/03/1965 – 6/1965: Assistant, St. Patrick, Canonsburg, PA
6/1965 – 5/1968: Sick Leave
5/1968 – 1992: Chaplain, Holy Cross Hospital, Diocese of Miami, FL
1992: Retired
Summary: Diocese records show that in August 1991, a woman reported that she was sexually molested by Scherer when she was a student at St. Anne between 1957 and 1961. A letter dated 1965, Scherer wrote of his “revelation” of his nervous breakdown resulting from the “relationship” with the woman.
Raymond T. Schultz
7/17/1947-1/19/1949: St. Mary, Kittaning, PA
1/20/1949-6/28/1950: St. Leonard, Monessen, PA
6/29/1950-6/15/1955: Holy Rosary, Homewood, PA
6/16/1955-6/12/1957: St. Margaret, Greentree, PA
6/13/1957-4/20/1966: Catholic Information Center, Diocese,
12/29/1964-4/20/1966: St. Richard, Pittsburgh, PA
4/21/1966-1/22/1997: Pastor, SS Peter & Paul, Beaver, PA
1/22/1997-10/15/1999: ADM, SS Peter & Paul, Beaver, PA
Summary: In 2009, a man reported that around 1978, he was sexually abused at a school in Beaver. The man’s mother and father were not aware of the abuse until it was reported in 2009. The victim’s mother indicated that she recalled an incident where she was doing laundry and discovered her son’s underwear was in the pocket of his pants. The son told her that he had an accident and she did not ask further questions.
In 2010, a psychologist reported seeing the victim since 2007 and treated him for PTSD symptoms. The victim reported dreams of the sensation of breath on the back of his neck from when Schultz was sexually assaulting him. He also recalled a particularly distressing incident of anal penetration by Schultz that occurred on a rainy day when his clothes were wet.
Francis Siler
5/20/1963: Parochial Vicar, Nativity, Broughton, PA
6/15/1970: Parochial Vicar St. Bernard, Mt Lebanon, PA
12/06/1972: Parochial Vicar, St. Titus, Aliquippa, PA
8/08/1974: Leave of Absence
5/21/1975: Parochial Vicar, St. Catherine, Wildwood, PA
10/11/1976: Pastor, St. Margaret, New Castle, PA
2/08/1983: Pastor, St. Catherine, Wildwood, PA
5/12/1984: Parochial Vicar, St. Agnes, West Mifflin, PA
7/01/1985: Leave of Absence, Health Reasons
2/24/1986: Chaplain, Allegheny Valley Hospital, PA
9/27/1987: Parochial Vicar, St. Mary Mercy, Pittsburgh, PA
2/25/2002: Leave of Absence
7/05/2002: Withdrew from Active Ministry
Summary: A diocesan record of Siler revealed a reference in a clinic report that “sexual problems with adolescents” had occurred in 1972, which caused Bishop Leonard to change Silers assignment. In 1974, Leonard wrote in a letter that “in the last three years, the problem arose about which I spoke to you in a phone conversation.”
A 1985 memorandum to another bishop from a priest said that Siler “made a pass at a young boy whose father is a policeman. The irate father was about to take the matter to court. It was this that necessitated our quick removal of Siler from the post.”
In 1994, a man came to see Siler to confront him about molesting him as a child. After the confrontation, Siler required hospitalization for suicidal feelings.
In 1995, a man reported that Siler fondled him on several occasions when he was ana ltar boy in the second or third grade. Siler denied the allegations.
In 2002, another allegation was made against Siler. A man said that Siler touched him inappropriately when he was a child between 1972 and 1973.
In 2011, another man reported Siler groped and fondled him through his clothes between 1972 and 1974 at a Beaver County church.
Rudolph M. Silvers
5/21/1975-5/18/1980: Parochial Vicar, St. Sylvester, Pittsburgh, PA
5/19/1980-7/07/1982: Parochial Vicar, St. Robert Bellarmine, East McKeesport, PA
7/08/1982-6/28/1983: Parochial Vicar, St. Canice, Pittsburgh, PA
6/06/1983-6/15/1986: Assist. Dir. Vocation Office, Diocese of Pittsburgh Pastoral Center
6/16/1986-8/01/1986: Parochial Vicar, St. Peter, Butler, PA
8/02/1986-2/07/1994: Pastor, St. Peter, Butler, PA
2/07/1994-6/27/1994: Replacement Ministry, St. Vincent de Paul, New Castle, PA
6/27/1994-2/25/2002: Pastor, St. Ann, Bulger, PA
2/25/2002-7/24/2002: Leave of Absence
7/24/2002: Withdrawn from service
Summary: Silvers is accused in multiple abuse cases:
In 1988, an 18-year-old man reported Silvers fondled him when he was between the ages of 12 and 15. The victim said Silvers had sexually fondled him and “taken advantage of him.” He said he felt overwhelmed and that people did not believe him. In 2002, Silvers was confronted with the allegations and he denied sexual contact. When confronted with the fact that the victim traveled to St. Anne’s to confront him, Silvers became vague and evasive.
In 1990, a mother met with a priest to express her concerns with Silvers inappropriate and unnatural attachment to her son. She said Silvers called the son at least three times per week, offered him various gifts, and also stayed overnight at the rectory without parental permission.
In a file dated July 19, 1991, the priest wrote that he had reviewed the concerns of the mother, but there was never any accusations of sexual behavior. In a notation dated in 2002, Silvers was placed on administrative leave. Silvers later resigned.
In 2012, a man reported that he was sexually abused by Silvers in the mid-late 1970s at St. Sylvester when he was 10 or 11 years old. The man said that Silvers would invite several boys to the rectory on Friday and Saturday evening and that they would go down to the recreation area in the basement to play games. During the visits, he would grab at the boys’ butt and genitals. The man said Silvers would get very excited, and eventually he would take one of the boys up to his private living quarters and be gone for 30 to 45 minutes, returning looking very pale and not talking for the rest of the evening.
Edward P. Smith
Unavailable Sacred Heart Church, Emsworth, PA
Summary: Several legal documents in diocesan records revealed Smith was accused of sexually abusing a 16-year-old girl while at Sacred heart. The abuse included Smith fondled her, and that the girl “believed that it would be sinful or wrong to make any kind of accusation against a priest or a bishop.”
James E. Somma
7/10/1959 – 4/19/1964: Purification of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Ellwood City, PA
4/20/1964 – 5/04/1964: St. Pius V., McKeesport, PA
5/05/1964 – 6/21/1984: Archdiocese for Military Services, Washington, DC
6/22/1984 – 5/11/1985: St. Aloysius, Pittsburgh, PA
5/12/1985 – 1/08/1992: Nativity, Pittsburgh, PA
1/08/1992 – 2/07/1994: Holy Trinity, West Mifflin, PA
2/07/1994 – 2/07/2002: Forbes Regional Hospital- Monroeville & St. Michael, Pitcairn, PA
Summary: In 1986, Father Nicholas Datillo stated that he spoke with a victim who said a priest sexually abused her for seven years. She provided the priest’s name, but the name was not provided in Datillo’s letter. The victim was worried “that the priest was not a pastor and could be out there harming other children.”
When Datillo spoke with two bishops on the matter, he said, “until she gives her name, we have no credible evidence.”
Datillo and another priest met with Somma following another phone call from the victim in 1988, and Datillo concluded that Somma should not be removed from ministry based on his “strong denial, sterling military career, the passage of time and the victim’s admitted psychiatric treatment.”
Somma was evaluated at the St. Luke Institute in February 1988.
In 2002, the victim sent a letter to Datillo saying she was in counseling and had filed a lawsuit. The report said that Somma forced her to engage in oral sex and sexual intercourse with him until her late teens. The lawsuit was dismissed based upon the statue of limitations.
Later in 2002, a second victim said that while watching XXX movies with Somma, Somma placed his hands down his own pants and talked about masturbation. They fell asleep under the covers and Somma “cuddled him like a teddy bear.”
The second victim said Somma had him fly from Ludwig, Illinois to the Pittsburg area, where they would watch pornography and talk about masturbation. The victim said he was sexually abused by Somma, but not molested.”
Bartley A. Sorensen
11/1/1976 – 6/29/1981: St. Ferdinand, Cranberry, PA
6/30/1981 – 6/28/1983: St. Colman, Turtle Creek, PA
6/29/1983 – 1/31/1985: St. James, Sewickley, PA
2/1/1985 – 6/11/1990: St. Valentine, Bethal Park, PA
6/11/1990 – 6/1/1992: Our Lady of the Most Blessed Sacrament
6/1/1992 – 9/1/1995: Mater Dolorosa, Chicora, PA
9/1/1995 – 9/10/1999: St. Joseph, Chicora, PA
9/1/1995 – 9/10/1999: Mater Dolorosa, Chicora, PA
9/10/1999 – 1/27/2003: St. Victor, Bairdford, PA
2/9/2004 – 2/4/2011: West Penn Hospital, Pittsburgh, PA
2/4/2011 – 11/14/2011: St. Ann, Pittsburgh, PA
11/14/2011 – 12/9/2011: St. John Fisher, Pittsburgh, PA
Summary: In December 2001, a woman went into the residence of Sorensen and saw he was looking at child pornography on his computer. She believed that the child was older than five years old, but no more than 10. When she questioned him, he acknowledged it. The woman left and reported it to the diocese.
The diocese then immediately contacted the Allegheny County District Attorney’s Office. Sorensen was arrested that day.
A search of his computer revealed over 5,000 images of child pornography on his computer, as well as on CDs, DVDs and various print books.
Sorenson entered a guilty plea in 2012, and was sentenced to 97 months incarceration, followed by five years of supervised release. He is required to permanently register as a convicted sex offender and pay a $25,000 fine.
Robert E. Spangenberg
1974: Faculty, Holy Ghost Preparatory School, Bensalem, PA
N/A: Associate Pastor, St. Mary Detroit, MI
N/A – 1977: Associate Pastor, St. Anthony Millvale, PA
1977 – 1979: Unknown ministry, North Carolina
1979 – 1980: Assistant Pastor, St. Mary, Sharpsburg, PA
1980 – N/A: Chaplain, St. Francis de Sale High School, Chicago, IL
1982 – 1984: Pastor, St. Stanislaus, Pittsburgh, PA
1984 – 1989: Pastor, St. Anthony, Millvale, PA
1989 – 1990: Superior of the Congregation Retirement home, Sarasota, FL
1990 – 1993: Pastor, St. Patrick, Charleston, SC
1993 – N/A: Administrator, St. Peter Claver, Philadelphia, PA
1994 – N/A: Pastor, St. James, Hamlet, NC
1997 – N/A: Pastor, Epiphany, Pittsburgh, PA
2002: Director of Retirement community, Sarasota, FL
2003: Retired
Summary: Documents provided by the diocese revealed that Spangenberg was involved with at least two children, possibly more. In 1988, a woman wrote the diocese to obtain help for her son, who was abused by Spangenberg and another priest from his order was helping them with counseling. She was upset, noting that the issue was just simply “noted” and she had not heard anyone.
Spangenberg was reassigned to a retirement home in Florida shortly after.
In 1989, an official wrote a letter to one of the boy’s family where he said “excessive use of alcohol contributed significantly to clouding the judgement and perception and further exacerbates the reliability of memory both at the time of the incident,” but acknowledged that he “believed that Father Spangenberg exercised questionable judgement.”
In 2009, a man reported that when he was 15 or 16, he and Spangenberg engaged in many types of sexual encounters. The boy reported that he was involved in street prostitution with young boys known as “Hustlers.” Spangenberg also paid the boy a finder’s fee to help him locate younger hustlers (known as “chickens”) to have sex with Spangenberg.
The boy noted that Spangenberg was a “really sick guy – he would have person urinate and defecate on him.”
Paul G. Spisak
5/22/1973-10/01/1978: St. Mary of the Mount, Pittsburgh, PA
10/02/1978-10/05/1980: St. Benedict the Abbot, McMurray, PA
10/06/1980-11/19/1981: Sacred Heart, Pittsburgh, PA
11/20/1981-6/29/1990: St. Dominic, Donora, PA
6/25/1988-6/29/1990: St. Charles, Donora, PA
6/30/1990-2/07/1994: St. Philip, Pittsburgh, PA
2/07/1994-2/12/1997: St. Andrew, Butler, PA
2/16/1998-10/26/1998: St. Mary, Cecil, PA
7/03/2000-7/11/2002: Chaplain Nursing Home, Allison Park, PA
7/03/2000-7/11/2002: Chaplain Nursing Home, Pittsburgh, PA
5/30/2003: Removed from ministry
Summary: In October 1998, parish staff from St. Dominic reported finding pornographic magazines, tapes and internet material in Spisak’s room that depicted homosexual and sadomasochistic activity. There were also several pictures of Spisak with two different underage boys, including pictures of the boys showing their butt and pictures of Spisak pulling down his and the boy’s pants. Spisak allegedly destroyed these pictures.
A diocesan employee said Spisak had written her a note that he was going to St. Luke’s for evaluations, but that he “hadn’t done anything wrong in the past or in the present.” She said that she started to feel uncomfortable about the attention he gave her son, and that her son would often leave when Spisak was expected to arrive.
In 1998, Spisak admitted to taking the photos sometime between 1981 and 1990, and said they were very innocent and “just for fun.”
Spisak’s evaluation, in a letter from the diocese, diagnosed Spisak as having a sexual disorder, and showed a “significant interest in grade school aged males.”
A psychotherapist for almost two years wrote the diocese in 2002, saying he hoped Spisak’s priestly ministry could be “reestablished in the future.” He added that “allegations of inappropriate sexual contact with a young man who was mentored by Spisak are not only unsubstantiated, but also not highly credible.”
In 2006, Spisak pled guilty to a disorderly conduct charge and had to pay a $300 fine. He was arrested in April 2006 after he was caught recording another man in the rear corner stall of the bathroom. Spisak originally denied having a camera, then faked being ill and ran into the bathroom. A security guard followed Spisak and saw him flush the memory card from the camera down the toilet.
Spisak later admitted to police that he had a “sexual fixation with the male buttocks.”
Lawrence F. Stebler
5/20/1963 – 8/27/1967: St. Hilary, Washington, PA
8/28/1967 – 11/30/1969: Our Lady of Fatima, Hopewell Township, PA
12/1/1969 – 6/13/1988: St. Stephen, Hazelwood, PA
6/14/1988 – 1/1/1996: St. Victor, Bairdford, PA
1/1/1996 – 6/17/1996: Leave of Absence
6/17/1996 – 6/9/1997: St. Theresa of Avila, Perrysville, PA
Summary: The diocese received a report from an adult man that said when he was eight or nine years old, he was sexually abused by Stebler. In a statement, he said “He would then touch my head, eyes, chest, belly, waist and then lower than that… He said my mom and dad said it was OK and that he was blessing my organs.” The victim said this happened for two or three years.
In 2006, the victim’s therapist wrote the diocese saying, the man has had two suicide attempts, several flashbacks, anxiety and panic attacks.
Richard Gerard Terdine
5/13/1965: St. Vitus, New Castle, PA
12/06/1965: St. Scholastica, Aspinwall, PA
9/22/1967: Our Lady of Grace, Scott Township, PA
6/10/1968: St. Lawrence O’Toole, Garfield, PA
6/15/1970: Epiphany, Uptown, Pittsburgh, PA
9/01/1971: Duquesne University, Graduate Assistant, Pittsburgh, PA
5/31/1972: St. Basil, Carrick, PA
8/09/1973: Purification of the Blessed Virgin Mary
5/31/1974: Intermediate Schools Unit, Psychologist
11/22/1986: St. Peter, McKeesport, PA
1/16/1989: Cardinal Wright Center/ Without Assignment
11/06/1989: Leave of Absence
7/02/1990: UPMC Shadyside Hospital, Pittsburgh, PA
6/17/1996: UPMC Presbyterian Hospital, Pittsburgh, PA
7/01/2009: UPMC Shadyside Hospital, Pittsburgh, PA
6/25/2012: Present: St John Vianney Manor, Pittsburgh, PA
Summary: In 2003, an allegation was detailed that in 1988, Terdine touched or patted the genital area of the boy on two-to-three occasions, gave the boy an x-rated video to watch and massaged his back.
Diocesan officials met with Terdine, who denied any sexual touching of the boy, but did admit that he gave the boy the video and the condums because he seemed “naïve about human sexuality” according to the report.
St. Luke’s, in 1990, provided an assessment that said Terdine had “very little risk of acting out sexually.”
The board recommended that Terdine not be assigned to any parish, and he was placed in restricted ministry and assigned as the chaplain to UPMC Hospitals throughout Pittsburgh.
Redacted – pending litigation
The name of the priest, where he served and the exact incident was entirely redacted in the grand jury report.
Charles Thomas
1935 – 1937: St. Killian, Mars, PA
1937 – 1940: St. Peter, Pittsburgh, PA
3/1940 – 11/1940: St. Wendelin, Carrick PA
1940 – 1941: St. Martin, Pittsburgh, PA
1941 – 1944: St. Mary Mercy, Pittsburgh, PA
1944 -1952: St. Coleman, Turtle Creek, PA
1952 -1957: St. Hugh. Carmichaels, PA
1952 -1957: St. Marcullus, Pittsburgh, PA
1957 – 1965: St. Paul, Butler, PA
8/1965 – 9/1965: St. Christopher, Prospect, PA
1965 – 1967: St. Robert Bellarmine, Pittsburgh, PA
6/1966: Resigned
Summary: An adult male wrote in 1996 that when he was a minor, he was sexually assaulted by Thomas on several occasions beginning in 1958. The man stated that the assaults began with Thomas fondling him, then progressed to anal penetration. The victim said that the nun, whose name was unknown, had helped Thomas in some of the sexual assaults.
John William Wellinger
6/15/1970-5/20/79: Assistant at St. Wendelin, Pittsburgh, PA
5/21/1975-5/1977: Graduate Studies in Theology, Catholic University of America,
Washington, D.C.
6/08/1977-8/31/1979: Assistant Pro Tem, St. Athanasius, West View, PA
9/01/1979-6/29/1981: Faculty of the Pontifical College Josephinum, Worthington, OH
for the scholastic year of 1979-1980
6/30/1980-6/29/1981: Assistant Pro Tem, St. Cyril of Alexandria, Pittsburgh, PA
6/30/1981-7/14/1985: Assistant, St. James, Wilkinsburg, PA
7/15/1985-1/25/1987: Parochial Vicar Assistant, St. Clare, Clairton, PA
1/26/1987-6/23/1987: Parochial Vicar Assistant, Our Lady of Grace, Scott Township, PA
6/24/1987-6/24/1991: Pastor, Holy Spirit, West Mifflin, PA
8/01/1987: Campus Ministries, Community College of Allegheny County
South Campus, West Mifflin, PA
6/11/1991: Resignation for reasons of health
1/24/1992-2/06/1994: Parochial Vicar (Pro Tem) at St. George, Allentown, PA
2/07/1994-6/01/1995: Parochial Vicar, St. Philip, Crafton, PA
5/16/1995: Resigned for personal reasons
5/18/1995: Leave of Absence
1/16/2003: Placed on Administrative Leave
3/01/2003: Declared de facto withdrawn from active ministry
Summary: On or about Feb. 19, 1986, Wellinger was sent to St. Luke’s Institute for a number of ussues, including drug and alcohol abuse. On October 8, 1987, Wellinger provided alcohol and drugs to an 18-year-old parishioner, who then had a “bad reaction” to the drugs and was taken to a hospital for treatment.
In 1989, a priest received a letter from a parishioner that listed a number of problems that the parish was having with Wellinger, including “giving drugs and alcohol to teens… teens in the parish have been warned by their parents about drugs from Father… and young men staying at the parish house.
In 1991, Wellinger was drinking alcoholic beverages with a 24 year old man in the rectory. Wellinger unbuttoned the man’s pants and began to perform oral sex on him without consent. Wellinger was sent to St. Michael’s Community in St. Louis for an evaluation. He took an absence from the parish, explained as being for “health reasons.”
In 1992, Wellinger returned to priestly ministry and became a Vicar in Allentown.
In 1994, Wellinger was stopped by officers for driving under the influence of alcohol. A bishop granted Wellinger a leave of absence from June 1995 to December 1995 for “personal reasons.
In 1995, diocesan officials met with the parents of a 17-year-old boy who said that their son was sexually abused by Wellinger in 1991. The victim and some friends were watching videos with Wellinger late into the night and they all fell asleep on the floor. The victim awakened to find that Wellinger had put his hands down the victim’s pants and fondled him.
Wellinger admitted to spending a lot of time with the victim, but denied consciously touching the victim. He said it was “pretty tight quarters” so he may have “unknowingly” touched the victim’s genitals.
Joseph S. Wichmanowski
7/13/1944- 12/15/1945: St. Mary (Polish) in McKeesport, PA
12/06/1945- 10/23/1946: Holy Cross in Glassport, PA
10/24/1946- 5/18/1949: St. Albert on South Side Pittsburgh, PA
5/19/1949- 12/03/1952: St. John Cantius in Sharpsburg, PA
12/04/1952- 6/12/1957: St. Stanislaus in Ambridge, PA
6/13/1957- 6/27/1962: Chaplin Allegheny Co. Workhouse
6/27/1962- 1/31/1969: Pastor St. Cyprian in Pittsburgh, PA
2/01/1969- 4/28/1977: Pastor St. Stanislaus in Ambridge, PA
Summary: A victim said that Wichmanowski forced her to perform oral sex on him, provided her with alcohol in the form and church wine, and made her dress provocatively, all when she was 12 years old. The victim said at one point, Wichmanowski invited her to New York, where told her he would/wanted to impregnate her.
It was reported that this victim, along with 31 other victims of abuse, was part of a settlement with the church for payments totaling $1.2 million.
George A. Wilt
6/10/1959 – 3/17/1968 Sacred Heart, Pittsburgh, PA
3/18/1968 – 5/26/2003 St Bernard, Pittsburgh, PA
Summary: In a memorandum dated November 17, 2000, a woman reported that Wilt made unwanted advances and embraced and kissed her on her mouth. Wilt embraced her two more times and again tried to kiss her.
In 2003, another memorandum said a director of religious education at St. Bernard expressed concerns about Wilt’s behavior. He failed to take immediate action when it was discovered a janitor was viewing pornography on a school computer. He also dismissed several incidents where the same janitor walked in on women and girls while they were using the bathroom. It was also reported that people left the parish because of inappropriate touching and kissing on the mouth, often during first communion.
Another memorandum in 2003 noted Wilt denied kissing eighth grade girls on the lips and inappropriately touching adult women.
In 2004, a victim reported she was sexually abused by Wilt, sometime between 1961 and 1963. The victim explained that she sought counseling from Wilt because she was being sexually abused by her father at the time. Wilt invited her into a small room in the parish house and during their conversation, he fondled her.
Robert G. Wolk
6/07/1966-5/30/1972: St. Athanasius, West View, PA
9/1972-5/1974: Attended Catholic University of America
5/30/1974-1986: Assistant Chancellor of the Diocese of Pittsburgh
7/22/1979-6/10/1981: La Roche College, Pittsburgh, PA
5/13/1986-9/23/1987: St. Thomas More Church, Bethel Park, PA
9/24/1987: Resigned
Summary: A memorandum indicated that in September 1987, a victim said when he was 12 years old and in sixth grade, he became friendly with Wolk. He eventually was invited into the rectory by Wolk to socialize. The socialization progressed from the use of cigarettes and alcohol to “belly rubs” and then “oral sex on the part of both.” The victim was also concerned that his brother, two years younger, was also involved in a similar sexual relationship with Wolk.
In September 1987, Wolk admitted without hesitation. He said his relationship with the victims was over, and understood the necessary action taken by the diocese.
Wolk was sent to St. Luke Institute in Maryland for treatment.
In 1990, Wolk plead guilty in Allegheny County court to four counts of involuntary deviate sexual intercourse and to corruption of minors. He was sentenced to five to 10 years of incarceration. Later that year, he pleaded guilty in Washington County court to two more counts of involuntary deviate sexual intercourse, and received a sentence of five to 10 years, to be served concurrently to his Allegheny County sentence.
Wolk is also accused in the following cases:
In 2003, a man said when he was a teenager in the mid-to-late 1980s, Wolk gave him a massage. Wolk then loosened his belt “to get comfortable.” A little while later, Wolk told the teen he would be putting some lotion on his neck. Although the teen did not see any lotion, he felt Wolk put something wet over his neck.
In 2017, a victim assistance coordinator in the Altoona/Johnstown Diocese alerted the diocese that a man had accused Wolk and another priest of abusing and molesting him.
In 2009, another male said that he was abused by Wolk in 1968 to 1970 or 1971. The boy was 14 to 17 years old during the abuse.
In September 2010, a parishioner came to a priest in Midland regarding sexual abuse that occurred during his childhood. The victim said the abuse was from Wolk and Father Leo Burchianti.
William B. Yockey
10/13/1977-10/01/1978: Assumption Church, Bellevue, PA
10/02/1978-6/28/1983: St. Bernadette, Monroeville, PA
6/29/1983-5/31/1984: Department of Social & Community Development,
6/29/1983-5/31/1984: Diocese of Pittsburgh
6/01/1984-2/16/1986: St. Canice, Pittsburgh, PA
2/17/1986-10/11/1987: St. Therese of Lisieux, Munhall, PA
10/12/1987-1/22/1989: St. Winifred, Mt. Lebanon, PA
1/23/1989-7/25/1991: Allegheny County Jail
1/23/1989-4/20/1989: Chaplain/Coordinator, Allegheny County Jail
4/21/1989-7/25/1991: St. Luke, Carnegie, PA (In Reserve)
7/25/1991: St. Anthony, Bridgeville, PA (In Reserve)
7/25/1991: Leave of Absence, Withdrawn from Active Ministry
Summary: In May 1991, two men accused Yockey of sexually abusing them when they were teenagers. On one occasion, one of the men accused Yockey of sexually molesting him in October. Of 1981. Both had been drinking – the victim was 16 years old – and he crashed out after drinking too much. At some point in the night, the victim fell off the couch and found Yockey fondling his genitals. Yockey then got on top of the victim and tried to kiss him. The other victim made a similar allegation.
When he was confronted in 1991, Yockey said the first incident was true, and the second incident may have been true, but he did not recall anything and that “that it was not impossible and won’t deny it.”
Yockey was put on administrative leave from his assignment as a chaplain to the County Jail.
Although the Diocese had information regarding alleged criminal actions on the part of Yockey as far back as 1986, there was only one document – dated January 2014 – that illustrated a report to the Allegheny County District Attorney’s Office. There was no mention of the history of Yockey’s reported sexual assaults.
Theodore P. Zabowski
6/15/1970 – Parochial Vicar, St. Lawrence O’Toole, Garfield, PA
5/21/1975 – Parochial Vicar, Most Holy Name, North Side, PA
10/06/1980 – Parochial Vicar, Holy Family, Lawrenceville, PA
1/14/1981 – Parochial Vicar, St. Catherine of Sweden, Wildwood, PA
1/11/1982 – Parochial Vicar, St. Mary, Glenshaw, PA
6/29/1985 – Pastor, St. Adalbert, South Side, PA
10/27/1992 – Pastor/Resigned, St. Richard, Richland Township, PA
1/08/1996 – Leave of absence
9/16/1996 – Parochial Vicar, Immaculate Conception, Washington, PA
7/14/2000 – Leave of Absence
7/29/2002 – Withdrew from ministry
Summary: An internal diocese document labeled “Chronology of Father Zabowski stated that in October 1995, a sexual abuse allegation was made against Zabowski. Between 1975 and 1979, a victim stated he engaged in wrestling with Zabowski and then Zabowski asked him to remove his clothes. After he removed his clothes, Zabowski fondled him.
In an evaluation dated Novmber 28, Zabowski admitted to “affectionate hugging” of teenage boys. In a letter dated June 26, 2003, Zabowski informed Bishop Wuerl that the “therapy helped him deal with allegations of placing himself with adolescent boys in a sexually inappropriate manner, gave him the ability to deal with and, yes, overcome the sexual ignorance and social backwardness of his life.”
George Zirwas
You can find out more about Zirwas details here.
Richard Zula
Further information on Zula was not listed in the document.
Pittsburgh Priests #2-10
Various assignments within the diocese of Pittsburgh
Summary: This group of nine priests contained specific complaints with allegations including offenses against children as young as five years old, some reports made as recently as 2017.
Diocese of Scranton
Philip A. Altavilla
Where served:
July 1992 – June 1995: St. Mary of Mt. Carmel, Dunmore
June 1996 – July 1996: Holy Trinity, Nanticoke
July 1996 – March 2000 – St. Patrick, St. John the Baptist, Immaculate Heart of Mary Chapel, Holy Cross, Scranton
March 2000 – July 2000: Church of the Immaculate Conception, Taylor, Pa.
July 2000 – November 2004: Immaculate Conception, St. John the Baptist, Taylor, Pa.
November 2004 – February 2008: St. Thomas More, Lake Ariel, Pa.
February 2008 – July 2009: Nativity of Our Lord Church, Scranton
July 2009- September 2009: Holy Cross High School, Dunmore
Sept. 2009 – July 2010: Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary, St. John the Evangelist, Scranton
July 2010 – November 2010: Immaculate Conception, Scranton
November 2010 – April 2014: St. Peter’s Cathedral, Scranton
April 4, 2014: Removed from assignment
April 17, 2014: Resigned
Summary: On April 3, 2014, Father Philip A. Altavilla was arrested for indecent assault, criminal attempt of indecent assault and corruption of minors in connection with a sexual assault of a female in December 1998.
The victim reported that she was an altar server assisting with midnight mass. After, Altavilla gave her alcohol and a ride home. During the ride, he pulled into a parking lot and parked. He swung her legs across his lap and worked his hands up her thigh. The victim told him to stop and he did, the report states.
Prior to trial, it was determined the statute of limitations had expired for the charges. A civil lawsuit against Altavilla and the Diocese was settled in 2014.
Girard F. Angelo
Where served:
June 1955 – October 1955: St. Matthew’s, East Stroudsburg
October 1955 – Sept. 1959: St. Thomas, Archbald, Pa.
Sept. 1959 – Sept. 1962: St. Lucy, Scranton
Sept. 1962 – July 1963: St. Francis, Scranton
July 1963 – Sept. 1967: Mater Delorosa, Williamsport
Sept. 1967 – March 1972: Our Lady of Grace, Hazleton
March 1972 – Sept. 1973: St. Raphael, Harleigh, Pa.
Sept. 1973 – July 2003, St. Raphael, Harleigh, Pa.
July 2003: Sacred Heart of Jesus, Harleigh, Pa.
Summary: In September 2002, Bishop James C. Timlin received a letter from a man who reported he had been sexually abused bi Angelo when he was 14 and while Angelo was at Mater Delorosa in the early 1960s. Timlin brought the issue to the Lycoming County District Attorney’s Office, even though statute of limitations appeared to expired.
Mark G. Balzeniuk
Where served:
November 1983 – Sept. 1984: St. Thomas, Archbald
Sept. 1984 – Sept. 1985: Sts. Peter and Paul, Plains
Sept. 1985 – July 1990: Holy Trinity, Swoyersville
July 1990 – Sept. 1997: Maternity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Wilkes-Barre
Sept. 1997 – July 2006: Our Lady Help of Christians, Dorrance
July 2006 – July 2009: Sts. Peter and Paul, Hazelton; Transfiguration, West Hazelton
July 2009 – March 2010: Episcopal Vicar of the Eastern Pastoral Region of the Diocese of Scranton
March 2010: Leave of Absense
October 7, 2011: Dispensation from the clerical state
Summary: In March 2010, Balczeniuk said he spent the night at the home of a family he had a close relationship with. While at the home, he admitted that he kissed and hugged the family’s son, whom he estimated was in his 20s. Balczeniuk described the boy as having mental difficulties and being a little slow.” Balczeniuk also made statements to a reverend in 2010 that while he was a seminarian in Wyoming County he “touched the genitals of some of the young boys who attended the camp” in the mid-1970s.
Redacted – Pending litigation
The name of the priest, where he served and the exact incident was entirely redacted in the grand jury report.
Joseph P. Bonner
Where served:
6/1953 – 9/1954: Asst. Pastor, St. Ann’s, Freeland, PA
9/1954 – 3/1964 Asst. Pastor, St. Nicholas, Wilkes -Bane, PA
3/1964 – 6/1964: Asst. Pastor, Ascension, Williamsport, PA
6/1964 – 1/1970: Asst. Pastor, St. Francis, Nanticoke, PA
1/1970 – 9/1970: Asst. Pastor, St. Cecilia, Wyoming, PA
9/1970 – 1/1972: Asst. Pastor, St. Juliana, Rock Lake, PA
1/1972 – 6/1981: Pastor, Resurrection, Muncy, PA
6/1981 – 6/1982: Pastor, St. Patrick’s, Milford, PA
6/1982 – 9/1982: Pastor, St. Paul’s, Scranton, PA
9/1982 – 9/1985: Pastor, St. James’, Pleasant Mount, PA
9/1985 – 7/1998: Pastor, Sacred Heart of Jesus, Weston, PA
7/1998 – 6/2002: Retired, Pastor Emeritus, Sacred Heart of Jesus, Weston, PA
6/2002: Removed from ministry
Summary: In 2002, the Diocese of Scranton was notified that that a victim was sexually molested by Bonner in 1975. The victim’s family was visiting from Arizona, and were invited to visit with Bonner and spent the night there. The victim was given a pull-out bed across from Bonner’s bedroom. After the victim fell asleep, he awoke to discover Bonner lying in bed with him, stroking the victim’s penis. When the victim asked Bonner what he was doing, Bonner replied “I am sorry… I shouldn’t have done that; Go back to bed.” Bonner was also accused by a 47-year-old man that Bonner sexually abused him when he was 14-to-16 years old.
Martin M. Boylan
8/1980 – 6/1982: Asst. Pastor, St. Jude, Mountaintop, PA
6/1982 – 9/1983: Asst. Pastor, St. Gabriel, Hazleton, PA
9/1983 – 9/1985: Asst. Pastor, St. Patrick, Scranton, PA
9/1985 – 2/1986: Asst. Pastor, St. Peter, Scranton, PA
2/1986 – 9/1986: Administrator, Blessed Sacrament, Wilkes -Bane, PA
9/1986 – 9/1987: Asst. Pastor, St. Mary of the Immaculate Conception, Wilkes -Bane, PA
9/1987 – 9/1988: Chaplain and Procurator, Bishop Hannan High School, Scranton, PA
9/1988 – 9/1989: Confessor, Spiritual Director, St. Pius X Seminary, Dalton, PA
9/1989 – 4/1993: Chaplain, College, Scranton, PA
6/1993 – 1/1994: Sabbatical leave
7/1994 – 6/1997: Administrator, St. Rita, Gouldsboro, PA
7/1997 – 7/2001: Pastor, St. Rita, Gouldsboro, PA
7/2001 – 7/2007: Pastor, St. John the Evangelist, Honesdale, PA
7/2007 – 7/2009: Pastor, St. Joseph, White Mills, PA
7/2009 – 7/2011: Pastor, St’s. Peter and Paul, Towanda, PA, St. Michael, Canton, PA, St. John Nepomucene, Troy, PA and St. Aloysius, Ralston, PA
7/2011 – 4/2016: Pastor, St. Patrick, Scranton, PA
4/05/2016: Leave of Absence
Summary: Boylan was serving as chaplain at Marywood College when a male graduate student alleged Boylan sexually harassed him and propositioned him for sex. Boylan was given a psychological evaluation and, after a leave of absence, returned to the ministry.
In 2016, an 18-year-old man reported that he was touched inappropriately by Boylan in 2006. The victim said he was at a summer event at St. Vincent’s Camp in Honesdale. The victim reported Boylan anally raped him. Boylan denied the allegation.
Robert J. Braque
5/1970 – 9/1970: Asst. Pastor, St. Ann, Tobyhanna, PA
9/1970 – 4/1972: Asst. Pastor, St. Peter, Wellsboro, PA
4/1972 – 9/1979: Asst. Pastor, St. John the Evangelist, Pittston, PA
9/1979 – 6/1980: Leave of absence
6/1980 – 9/1980: Asst. Pastor, St. Maria Goretti, Laflin, PA
9/1980 – 9/1982: Asst. Pastor, St. Ann, Tobyhanna, PA
9/1982 – 9/1984: Asst. Pastor, St. Ann, Williamsport, PA
9/1984 – 9/1988: Pastor, SS Peter & Paul, Towanda, PA
9/01/1988: Leave of Absence
1/19/1990: Appointed Parochial Vicar, St. Ann, Naples, FL
Summary: In 1988, Bishop James C. Timlin received two anonymous letters from a parishioner about rumors involving Braque and a high school female student. Five months later in August, Timlin received a letter from the sister of the high school female, who said Braque had sexual relations with her 17-year-old sister, who became Pregnant. She further wrote that Braque had at least two other affairs. A month later in September, Timlin responded to that letter by stating Braque was removed from office as soon as the situation was brought to his attention. He wrote, “Father Braque and your sister have a long, difficult road ahead … What has happened is their responsibility and certainly Father Braque will take care of his obligations.” In April of 1989, the victim gave birth to a baby boy.
Francis T. Brennan
6/1954 – 10/1957: Asst. Pastor, St. Therese, Shavetown, PA
10/1957 – 6/1965: Vicar Econome, St. Therese, Shavertown, PA
6/1965 – 9/1970: Chaplain, Marian Convent, Marywood, PA
9/1970 – 7/1974: Pastor, St. Maria Goretti, Laflin, PA
Summary: In 2010, the Diocese received a telephone call from a 65-year-old male who reported he was abused by Brennan when he was 15 or 16-year-old. He reported Brennan took him to a drive-in movie and put his hands inside the victim’s pants. The Diocese offered to arrange for counseling for the victim. That same day, Chancellor James Earley sent an email to Bishop Joseph Bambera advising that in 2005, the Diocese had been sued by someone who stated that he had been abused by Brennan in 1966 when he was an altar boy. The court rejected the case, concluding the victim has waited too long to sue.
Joseph W. Bucolo
6/1954 – 9/1954: St. Patrick, Milford, PA
9/1954 – 9/1966: Most Precious Blood, Hazleton, PA
9/1966 – 9/1967: Asst. Pastor, Our Lady of Mt. Carmel, Carbondale, PA
9/1967 – 5/1970: Asst. Pastor, St. Lucy, Scranton, PA
5/1970 – 9/1972: Asst. Pastor, St. Anthony, Dunmore, PA
9/1972 – 4/1973: Asst. Pastor, Our Lady of Grace, Hazleton, PA
4/1973 – 9/1974: Pastor, St. Thomas, Elkland, PA
9/1974 – 7/1992: Pastor, St. Nazorius, Pardeesville, PA
7/1992 – 6/2002: Pastor, St. Mary, Lattimer Mines, PA
7/03/2002: Removed from ministry
7/25/2002: Pastor Emeritus, St. Nazarius, Pardeesville, PA
Summary: In 1971, Bishop J. Carroll McCormick was notified that the parents of a 10-year-old boy reported Bucolo took their son on a two-day vacation to the New jersey shore the previous summer. They said that during the trip, Bucolo committed acts with their son, “unbecoming of a priest.” McCormick wrote on the memorandum that Bucolo “readily admitted the charge, insisting that once and only once did he commit an immoral act with the individual … and said he was very sorry. He claimed that it was in a moment of weakness it had occurred.” Bucolo agreed to see a psychiatrist and was placed under Charter restrictions in 2002 due to his admissions.
In 2010, a 64-year-old male reported to the diocese that he was abused by Bucolo when he was an 8-year-old altar boy. The victim and Bucolo entered into a settlement and release of all claims for the agreed amount of $20,000.
Gerald J. Burns
6/1950 – 9/1950: Asst. Pastor, St. Ann, Shohola, PA
9/1950 – 9/1950: Asst. Pastor, St. Patrick, Wilkes -Bane, PA
9/1950 – 6/1952: Asst. Pastor, St. John, Honesdale, PA
6/1952 – 6/1953: Asst. Pastor, St. Peter, Wellsboro, PA
6/1953 – 9/1962: Asst. Pastor, St. John the Evangelist, Wilkes -Bane, PA
9/1962 – 9/1968: Asst. Pastor, St. Dominic, Wilkes -Bane, PA
9/1968 – 9/1970: Chaplain, Mercy Heights Hospital, Scranton, PA
9/1970 – 6/1982: Pastor, Blessed Sacraments, Wilkes -Bane, PA
6/1982 – 9/1984: Pastor, St. Gabriel, Hazleton, PA
9/1984 – 1/1994: Pastor, St. John the Evangelist, Pittston, PA
1/24/1994: Retired
1/1994: Pastor Emeritus, St. John the Evangelist, Pittston, PA
Summary: In 1994, Bishop James C. Timlin received a letter from a woman who wrote her husband was sexually molested by Burns for years when he was an altar server at St. John’s in the 1950s. Burns denied any wrongdoing but agreed to retire. Timlin notified the victim that the diocese would cover the cost of his counseling, with the responsibility being shared by Burns. In 1999, Burns died.
Robert N. Caparelli
More information not available
Anthony P. Conmy
6/1953 – 9/1953: Asst. Pastor, St. Patrick, Milford, PA, St. Ann’s, Tobyhanna, PA
9/1953 – 10/1955: Asst. Pastor, St. Francis, West Hazleton, PA
10/1955 – Unknown: Asst. Pastor, St. Patrick, Scranton, PA
Summary: In 2008, a 49-year-old female reported to the Diocese of Scranton that she was sexually assaulted by Conmey when she was 10. She said she and a friend stopped by the rectory to talk to Conmy, and got into a car with him. He dropped off her friend, then drove to a wooded area and molested her. He grabbed her wrist tightly, put her hand over her mouth and put her knee in her stomach to hold her down as she struggled. She begged him not to kill her, and he said he wouldn’t if she would lie quietly. He eventually performed oral sex on her. The victim requested the diocese not report the abuse to the Lycoming County District Attorney’s office and the diocese agreed.
J. Peter Crynes
6/1967 – 9/1967: Asst. Director, Camp St. Andrew, Tunkhannock, PA
9/1967 – 9/1968: Asst. Pastor, St. Patrick, White Haven, PA
9/1968 – 9/1972: Asst. Pastor, Holy Rosary, Scranton, PA
9/1972 – 9/1975: Chaplain, St. Joseph’s Children’s and Maternity Hospital,
Scranton, PA
9/1975 – 6/1988: Director, Our Lady of Fatima Center, Elmhurst, PA
6/1988 – 7/1994: Pastor, Church of Corpus Christi, Montdale, PA
7/1994 – 5/2006: Pastor, St. Therese, Shavertown, PA
5/2006 Removed from active ministry
5/19/2006: Resigned
Summary: In 2006, the diocese received a letter from a law firm stating it represented a female sexually abused by Crynes from 1974 to 1977, starting when she was 17. The abuse included fondling, fellatio and intercourse. When she confronted Crynes during her sophomore year of college, he laughed at her and said he wanted to continue when she was married.
In 2006, another female alleged abuse against Crynes. After being counseled by him for two years starting when she was 15, the victim went with Crymes to the Fatima Center for evaluation and counseling. The first night there, he came into her room, lifted her nightgown and rubbed her thigh. He kissed her later that month.
Later in 2006, two more females met with the diocese and alleged that they were abused by Crynes.
Raymond L. Deviney
6/1959 – 10/1959: Asst. Pastor, St. Mary of the Mount, Mt. Pocono, PA
10/1959 – 10/1960: Asst. Pastor, St. John Evangelist, Susquehanna, PA
10/1960 – 3/1964: Asst. Pastor, St. Thomas More, Lake Ariel, PA
3/1964 – 9/1968: Asst. Pastor, St. Gabriel’s, Hazleton, PA
9/1968 – 9/1969: Asst. Pastor, St. John Evangelist, Pittston, PA
9/1969 – 9/1976: Asst. Pastor, St. John Evangelist, Wilkes -Bane, PA
9/1976 – 7/2007: Pastor, Christ the King, Blakeslee, PA
7/2007: Pastor Emeritus, Christ the King, Blakeslee, PA
Summary: In 1994, an adult female informed Bishop James C. Timlin that she was sexually abused by Deviney when she was in high school. She said he would place his hand on her thigh and move his hand up her leg, asking if she trusted him. When she confided in Deviney that she lost a baby and her husband, he took advantage of and violated her. Timlin sent her a letter apologizing for Deviney’s actions.
Redacted – pending litigation
The name of the priest was redacted, as were details about him.
Donald J. Dorsey
6/1955 – 10/1955: Asst. Pastor, St. Ann, Shohola, PA
10/1955 – 2/1959: Asst. Pastor, St. Leo, Ashley, PA,
2/1959 – 10/1959: Faculties withdrawn, Sent to Hospice
10/1959 – 12/1960: Asst. Pastor, St. Ann, Shohola, PA, Faculties reinstated
12/1960: Sent to Hospice
6/29/1964: Faculties revoked
Summary: In 1959 the Diocese of Scranton received two complaints about Dorsey. One indicated he was with a high school girl. The other that he was being too close with females in the town. Bishop Hannon directed Dorsey to report to hospice and for his faculties to be withdrawn. He was forbidden to meet with any person of the female sex who lived within the territory of Ashley, PA. Dorsey was reinstated later in 1959 but was forbid to visit homes in Ashley or Wilkes-Barre.
Redacted – pending litigation
The name of the priest was redacted, as were details about him.
John M. Duggan
5/1988: Asst. Pastor, St. Paul, Scranton, PA, Summa
Summary: In 1993, Duggan was sent for a psychological evaluation and admitted to sexually abusing young children during the early days of his priesthood. He denied that any abuse occurred within the diocese.
In 1996, an adult male reported that he was sexually abused by Duggan in the 1970s. Bishop Timlin restricted Duggan’s work to convent and prison ministry.
John J. Dzurko
6/1932 – 9/1932: Asst. Pastor, St. Joseph’s, Matamoras, PA
9/1932 – 10/1932: Asst. Pastor, St. Mary’s, Wilkes -Bane, PA
10/1932 – 6/1934: Asst. Pastor, St. Patrick’s, White Haven, PA
6/1934 – 9/1934: Asst. Pastor, St. Mary’s, Lackawaxen, PA
9/1934 – 2/1938: Asst. Pastor, Holy Trinity, Hazleton, PA
2/1938 – 6/1943: Pastor, St. Michael’s, Forest City, PA
6/1943 – 9/1959: Pastor, Holy Trinity, Simpson, PA
9/1959 – 1/1970: Pastor, St. Joseph’s, Nanticoke, PA
1/1970 – 9/1979: Pastor, St. Joseph’s, Wilkes -Bane, PA
9/1979 – 8/1991: Pastor Emeritus, St. Joseph’s, Wilkes -Bane, PA
Summary: In 1957, the Diocese of Scranton received a complaint from a 48-year-old woman who said she was sexually molested by Dzurko at age 11 in 1957. The Diocese believed the victim to be credible and subsequently paid the cost of art therapy for her.
James F. Farry
7/1946 – 6/1948: Asst. Pastor, Our Lady of Mt. Carmel, Carbondale, PA
6/1948 – 1/1953: Asst. Pastor, St. Francis, Scranton, PA
1/1953: Suffered aneurysm, Confined to hospital
1/1954 – 5/1960: Resident, St. Michael’s School for Boys, Hoban Heights, PA
6/1960: Cure of Ars Hospice
9/1966 – 9/1968: Asst. Pastor, St. Mary, Old Forge, PA
9/1968 – 11/1976: Chaplain, St. Mary’s Villa, Elmhurst, PA
11/1976 – 6/1990: In Residence, St. Boniface, Williamsport, PA
Summary: In 1954, Farry was assigned to St. Michael’s School for Boys. In 1960, he was notified by Bishop Hannan that his relations with guests made it intolerable for him to live there. He was invited to take up residence at the Cure of Ars Hospice.
In 2006, the diocese received a report that a resident at St. Michael’s from 1953 to 1954 said he was abused by a Father Collins. The victim later revealed it was Farry.
James F. Fedor
5/1973 – 9/1977: Asst. Pastor, Holy Trinity, Swoyersville, PA
9/1977 – 9/1979: Asst. Pastor, St. Peter’s, Scranton, PA
9/1979 – 9/1980: Asst. Pastor, St. John the Evangelist, Scranton, PA
9/1980 – 6/1982: Asst. Pastor, St. Rose of Lima, Carbondale, PA
6/1982 – 7/1983: Asst. Pastor, St. Patrick’s, Scranton, PA
7/1983 – 9/1983: Administrator, St. Mary’s, Avoca, PA
9/1983 – 9/1984: Chaplain, Holy Family Residence, Scranton, PA
9/1984 – 8/1985: Pastor, St. Joseph, Wilkes -Bane, PA
8/1985 – 7/1986: Pastor, Holy Ghost, Olyphant, PA
7/1986 – 1/1987: Administrator, Christ the King, Dunmore, PA
9/1987 – 7/1991: Chaplain, Holy Family Residence, Scranton, PA
7/08/1991: Indefinite leave of Absence
5/03/1994: Laicized
Summary: From 1981 to 1986, Fedor sought counseling for issues and concerns about his desires to have contact with young girls. He received psychological treatment from 1986 to 1987.
In 2002, the Diocese of Scranton received an anonymous letter from an adult female who claimed Fedor abused her in 1978 when she was 10. She said he engaged in grooming behavior which led to two years of sexual abuse. In 2012, a letter about the allegation was sent to the Lackawanna County District Attorney’s Office.
Ralph N. Ferraldo
5/1970 – 9/1970: Asst. Pastor, St. Mary, Jessup, PA
9/1970 – 9/1976: Asst. Pastor, St. Francis, Nanticoke, PA
9/1976 – 9/1979: Catechist, Bishop O’Reilly High School, Kingston, PA In Residence, Maternity BVM, Wilkes -Bane, PA
9/1979 – 9/1980: Chaplain, St. Joseph’s Hospital, Carbondale, PA.
9/1980 – 9/1984: Our Lady of Grace, Hazleton, PA
9/1984 – 2/1986: Chaplain, GWV Medical Center
2/1986 – 11/1986: Leave of Absence
11/1986 – 11/1988: In Residence, St. Boniface, Williamsport, PA
11/22/1988: Leave of Absence
11/30/1988: Indefinite Leave of Absence, removed from active ministry
Summary: In 1974, Chancellor James Timlin received a call from a woman who said her 16-year-old son had been touched by Ferraldo. She said Ferraldo had done this to other altar boys and an orderly at a local hospital. When questioned, Ferraldo denied the allegations. He was asked not to have older boys visit his room in the rectory anymore.
In 1986, two staff members at Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center called Timlin to report Ferraldo made improper sexual advantages against a 23-year-old male patient. Ferraldo admitted to that allegation. He agreed not to return to the hospital and was directed to report for counseling.
In 2002, the Archdiocese of New York notified the Diocese of Scranton that a male reported being sexually abused by Ferraldo with he was 16 0r 17 in 1983-1983. The victim did not want to bring a suit against the church. He wanted to reveal the abuse for the sake of reconciliation.
Angelus Ferrara
Assignments: N/A
Summary: In 2011, the Executive Director of Catholic Charities received a report from the mother of a 14-year-old boy who said he was sexually abused by Ferrara at a retreat house. He said Ferrara had him massage his male parts. Ferrara admitted the conduct occurred and was terminated. He was later criminally charged, pled guilty and sentenced to state prison.
Austin E. Flanagan
6/1966 – 9/1966: Parochial Vicar, Queen of Peace, Hawley, PA
9/1966 – 9/1969: Parochial Vicar, Nativity of BVM, Tunkhannock, PA
9/1969 – 9/1971: Parochial Vicar, St. Mary’s, Avoca, PA
9/1971 – 9/1973: Parochial Vicar, St. Ignatius, Kingston, PA
9/1973 – 9/1975: Parochial Vicar, St. Mary, Avoca, PA
9/1975 – 9/1979: Chaplain, Little Flower Manor, Wilkes -Bane, PA
9/1979 – 9/1980: Pastor, St. Thomas the Apostle, Elkland, PA
9/1980 – 6/1982: Pastor, St. Francis of Assisi, Mildred, PA
6/1982 – 9/1985: Pastor, St. Mark, Inkerman, PA
9/1985 – 9/1986: Pastor, St. Agnes, Forest City, PA
9/1986 – 4/1990: Pastor, Blessed Sacrament & St. John the Baptist,
Wilkes -Bane, PA
4/1990 – 6/1990: Sick Leave
6/1990 – 6/1993: Residence, St. Thomas Aquinas, Archbald, PA
6/1993 – 7/1994: Residence, St. Lucy, Scranton, PA
7/1994 – 7/1998: Residence, Most Precious Blood, Hazleton, PA Chaplain, St. Joseph Medical Center, Hazleton, PA
71998 – 9/1999: Residence, St. Francis of Assisi, West Hazleton, PA Chaplain, St. Joseph Medical Center, Hazleton, PA
7/2002: Removed from active ministry
Summary: In 1980, McCormick received a letter from a parishioner who advised that Flanagan was sleeping in sleeping bags with young boys.
Flanagan related that one month prior to his admission to St. Vincent’s Hospital in New York in 1990, he had been questioned about fondling two boys at a summer camp two years earlier. He did not deny that it happened.
In 2005, the Diocese of Scranton was contacted by a 34-year-old who claimed he was sodomized by Flanagan in the rectory at St. Mary’s in 1973. Flanagan denied any wrongdoing. The allegation was reported to the Luzerne County District Attorney’s office.
Joseph D. Flannery
6/1953 – 6/1959: Asst. Pastor, St. John, Honesdale, PA
6/1959 – 4/1963: Asst. Pastor, St. John, Pittston, PA
4/1963 – 6/1963: Asst. Pastor, Holy Savior, Wilkes -Bane, PA
6/1963 – 9/1966: Asst. Pastor, Ascension, Williamsport, PA
9/1966 – 9/1967: Asst. Pastor, Sacred Heart, Jermyn, PA
9/1967 – 9/1970: Asst. Pastor, St. Jude, Mountain Top, PA
9/1970 – 9/1980: Pastor, St. Francis of Assisi, Mildred, PA
9/1980 – 9/1985: Pastor, St. Patrick, Nicholson, PA
9/1985 – 3/2000: Pastor, Immaculate Conception, Taylor, PA
3/2000: Pastor Emeritus, Immaculate Conception, Taylor, PA
Summary: In 1964, 1965, and 1966, the diocese received letters about Flannery’s affairs with women, his dating a young girl and getting her pregnant, and being seen on vacation in Atlantic City with the woman.
Martin J. Fleming
9/1898 – 11/1898: Cathedral, Scranton, PA
11/1898 – 3/1899: Wellsboro, PA
3/1899 – 4/1899: Plymouth, PA
4/1899 – 1901: Sugar Notch, PA, St. John’s, Scranton, PA
1901 – 1902: Hazleton, PA
1902 – 1907: Freeland, PA
1907 – 1919: Moscow, PA
1919 – Unknown
Summary: In 2006, a female victim reported that she was sexually abused by Fleming in 1940 when she was six years old.
Robert J. Gibson
6/1958 – 10/1958: Camp St. Andrew, Tunkhannock, PA
10/1958 – 9/1965: Asst. Pastor, St. Paul, Scranton, PA
9/1965 – 9/1968: Asst. Pastor, St. Matthew, Stroudsburg, PA
9/1968 – 1/1974: Asst. Pastor, St. Luke, Stroudsburg, PA
1/1974 – 9/1982: Administrator, Our Lady Queen of Peace, Broadheadsville, PA
9/1982 – 1/1983: Pastor, St. John Bosco, Conyngham, PA
1/1983 – 1/1995: Pastor, St. Bernadette, Canadensis, PA
1995: Resigns as Pastor, St. Bernadette
1/1995 – 8/1995: Leave of Absence
8/1995 – 1997: Residence, St. Ignatius Rectory, Kingston, PA
2/01/1998: Faculties removed
Summary: Gibson sexually abused a 14-year-old boy in 1975. The diocese settled a civil action with a $30,000 settlement. In 1998, Gison was involved with sexual misconduct with his nephew, who was a minor at the time. In 2002, A man said Gibson provided pornographic material to him when he was a minor. In 2005, a man said Gibson sexually assaulted him when he was a minor.
Joseph G. Gilgallon
6/1959 – 6/1966: Asst. Pastor, St. Basil, Dushore, PA
6/1966 – 9/1966: Asst. Pastor, St. Francis, Eagles Mere, PA
9/1966 – 9/1972: Pastor, St. Ignatius, Kingston, PA
9/1972 – 9/1985: Pastor, St. Peter, Scranton, PA
9/1985 – 9/1987: Pastor, St. Therese, Shavertown, PA
9/1987 – 2/1991: Pastor, St. Francis, West Hazleton, PA
Summary: In 2006, a 40-year-old man alleged he was sexually abused by Gilgallon in 1986 in the rectory.
Joseph A. Griffin
6/1927 – 9/1927: Asst. Pastor, St. Matthew, East Stroudsburg, PA
9/1927 – 2/1928: Asst. Pastor, St. Andrew, Blossburg, PA
2/1928 – 9/1929: Asst. Pastor, Annunciation, Williamsport, PA
9/1929 – 1/1932: Studies – Catholic University
1/1932 – 9/1938: Chaplain, & Teacher, Marywood College, Scranton, PA
9/1938 – 6/1944: Chaplain, St. Joseph Children and Maternity Hospital, Scranton, PA
6/1944 – 9/1951: Pastor, St. Catherine, Moscow, PA
9/1951 – 9/1952: Administrator, St. Basil, Dushore, PA
9/1952 – 1/1967: Pastor, St’s Peter & Paul, Towanda, PA
1/1967 – 9/1974: Pastor, St. Mary, Avoca, PA
9/1974 – 9/1976: Chaplain, Marian Convent, Scranton, PA
9/1976: Retired
5/1980 – 7/1980: Part-time Administrator, St. Catherine, Moscow, PA
7/1980: Part-time Administrator, Blessed Sacrament, Hughestown, PA
Summary: In 2009, a 42-year-old man said Griffin abused him when he was nine years old. Griffin touched him, rubbed his backside and slept with his arm around him.
Joseph T. Hammond
More information on Hammond was not listed in the report.
P. Lawrence Homer
8/1959 – 10/1961: Asst. Pastor, Vicar, Holy Rosary, Scranton, PA
10/1961 – 6/1964: Asst. Pastor, St. John the Baptist, Scranton, PA
3/1965 – 9/1965: Asst. Pastor, Gate of Heaven, Dallas, PA
9/1965 – 9/1966: Asst. Pastor, Holy Trinity, Hazleton, PA
9/1966 – 2/1967: Asst. Pastor, St. Boniface, Williamsport, PA
2/1967 – 1/1970: Asst. Pastor, Queen of Peace, Hawley, PA
1/1970 – 1/1977: Asst. Pastor, St. John the Baptist, Pittston, PA
1/1977 – 10/1993: Pastor, Holy Trinity, Hazleton, PA
9/1987 – 10/1993: Pastor, Our Lady of Mt. Carmel, Hazleton, PA
10/1993: Resignation Effective October 03, 1993
10/1993 – 7/1994: Residence, Marian Convent, Marywood College, Scranton, PA
7/1994 – 6/2002: Residence, Our Lady Queen of Peace Rectory, Brodheadsville, PA
7/03/2002: Removed from ministry
Summary: In 1967, Homer had a 14 year old female locked in his office during an entire class period. He told the girl she had “sex hair” and while she was only 14, he told her she had the body of an 17 year old. A second victim reported that he would have her come to his office and he would undress her, French-kissed her and stated she “would be nice to marry even though it meant leaving the priesthood.”
Mark A. Honart
2/1980 – 8/1981: Asst. Pastor, Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Kansas City, MO
8/1981 – 7/1986: Asst. Pastor, Holy Cross, Kansas City, MO
7/1986 – 10/1990: Pastor, St. Patrick’s, St. Joseph, MO
10/1990 – 1/1991: Sabbatical Leave
1/1991 – 6/1991: Asst. Pastor, Immaculate Conception, Kansas City, MO
6/1991 – 8/2000: Pastor, Immaculate Conception, Richmond, MO
8/2000 – 1/2001: Pastor, St. Rose of Lima, Savannah, MO
1/2001 – 1/2004: On loan to the Archdiocese of Santa Fe, NM
6/2004 – 6/2009: On loan to the Diocese of Scranton
6/2004 – 6/2005: Asst. Pastor, St. Rose of Lima, Carbondale, MO
6/2005 – 7/2007: Administrator, St. Anthony, St. Bridget, St. John the Baptist, Throop, PA
7/2007 – 7/2010: Administrator, Our Lady Help of Christians, Dorrance, P
6/12/2009: Excardinated to the Diocese of Kansas City
6/13/2009: Incardinated to the Diocese of Scranton
7/2010 – 2/2011: Asst. Pastor, Ascension, Forest City, PA; St. Katherine Drexel, Pleasant Mount, PA
2/03/2011: Faculties removed
Summary: An allegation was made that from 1985-1986, Honart sexually abused a bou when he was in the fourth grade at Holy Cross
Joseph F. Houston
3/1964 – 9/1966: Asst. Pastor, St. Thomas More, Lake Ariel, PA
9/1966 – 9/1970: Asst. Pastor, St. Peter, Wellsboro, PA
9/1970 – 6/1977: Asst. Pastor, St. Paul, Scranton, PA
9/1977 – 9/1980: Pastor, Holy Child, Mansfield, PA
9/1980 – 9/1982: Pastor, St. Thomas More, Lake Ariel, PA
9/1982: Resigned
11/1982 – 6/2002: Pastor, St. Vincent de Paul, Plymouth, PA
6/2002: Removal from ministry
Summary: In 1971, a priest reported that Houston and a minor female were observed going into a motel room late at night on multiple occasions. In 2002, the victim said the priest had taken advantage of her from the age of 14 to 17.
Redacted – pending litigation
The name of the priest, where he served and the exact incident was entirely redacted in the grand jury report.
Redacted – pending litigation
The name of the priest, where he served and the exact incident was entirely redacted in the grand jury report.
Francis G. Kulig
6/1974 – 9/1974: Asst. Pastor, St. Matthew, East Stroudsburg, PA
9/1974 – 9/1979: Asst. Pastor, Immaculate Conception, Scranton, PA
9/1979 – 10/1985: Asst. Pastor, St. John the Evangelist, Wilkes -Bane, PA
10/1985 – 9/1986: Asst. Nativity BVM, Tunkhannock, PA
9/1986 – 8/1987: Pastor, St. Mary of the Lake, Lake Winola, PA
8/01/1987: Resigned from St. Mary of the Lake
9/1987 – 1/2001: Chaplain, Mercy Center Convent, Dallas, PA
1/2001 – 6/2002: Chaplain, Holy Family Residence, Scranton, PA,
7/03/2002: Removed from ministry
Summary: A father wrote in 1986 that his son was sexually molested by Kulig beginning in 1979 when the boy was 12. The abuse continued until Kulig was transferred in October 1985. The abuse included mutual masturbation, oral sex and anal sex.
Albert M. Libertore, Jr.
8/1989 – 6/1990: Student, Louvain, Belgium
7/1990 – 2/1991: Parochial Vicar, St. John the Evangelist, Pittston, PA
2/1991 – 6/1993: Parochial Vicar, St. Peter’s Cathedral, Scranton, PA
7/1993 – 6/1995: Student, Louvain, Belgium
7/1995 – 6/1997: Director of Vocations, Scranton, PA
7/1995 – 4/1997: St. Pius X Seminary, Faculty, Dalton, PA
4/1997 – 6/1997: Resident, St. Clare, Scranton, PA
7/1997 – 1/2004: Administrator, Sacred Heart of Jesus, Duryea, PA
5/2004: Faculties removed
5/26/2006: Removed from the clerical state
Summary: 20 young men from a high school observed Liberatore lying on the bed being given a back rub by a seminarian. In 2002, it was reported that Liberatore took a young man in his teens or early twenties into his bedroom. In 2004, the diocese received a complaint that he sexually abused two young men. He pled guilty to indecent assault, corruption of minors, endangering the welfare of children and furnishing alcohol to a minor in separate cases.
John A. Madaj
6/1939 – 9/1944: Asst. Pastor, Nativity, Plymouth, PA
9/1944 – 1/1946: Asst. Pastor, St. Mary, Wilkes -Bane, PA
1/1946 – 9/1946: Asst. Pastor, St. Hedwig, Kingston, PA
9/1946 – 5/1950: Asst. Pastor, St. Adalbert, Glen Lyon, PA
5/1950 – 10/1955: Pastor, St. Joseph, Morrris Run, PA
10/1955 – 1/1970: Pastor, Sacred Heart, Forest City, PA
1/1970 – 9/1984: Pastor, Transfiguration, West Hazleton, PA
9/1984 – 1/1985: Pastor, St. Mary of Czestochowa, Eynon, PA
1/1985 – 9/1989: Pastor, SS Peter and Paul, Scranton, PA
9/1989 – 11/1998: Pastor Emeritus, St. Peter and Paul, Scranton, PA
Summary: In 1952, Madaj was alleged to be having an affair with his housekeeper. In 1990, two parents alleged that Madaj sexually molested their son when he was nine or 10.
Redacted – pending litigation
The name of the priest, where he served and the exact incident was entirely redacted in the grand jury report.
James M. McAuliffe
6/1942 – 9/1942: Asst. Pastor, St. Ann, Tobyhanna, PA
9/1942 – 3/1945: Asst. Pastor, St. Thomas, Archbald, PA
3/1945 – 6/1945: Asst. Pastor, Our Lady of the Snows, Clarks Summit, PA
6/1945 – 4/1947: Asst. Pastor, St. Mary’s, Pittston, PA
4/1947 – 6/1953: Asst. Pastor, St. Paul, Scranton, PA
6/1953 – 6/1954: Asst. Pastor, St. Therese, Shavertown, PA
6/1954 – 9/1954: Asst. Pastor, St. Ann, Tobyhanna, PA
9/1954 – 2/1966: Asst. Pastor, Holy Saviour, Wilkes -Bane, PA
2/1966 – 9/1969: Asst. Pastor, St. Thomas, Dickson City, PA
9/1969 – 9/1973: Pastor, St. James, Pleasant Mount, PA
9/1973 – 9/1989: Pastor, St. David, Scranton, PA
9/1989: Pastor Emeritus, St. David, Scranton, PA
Summary: In March 1963, McAuliffe sexually abused and sodomized a victim. He was sent to Kentucky to spend time in a rehab facility. McAuliffe returned to the ministry and re-offended other young boys.
Neil McLaughlin
1961 – 1983: Taught at Scranton Preparatory School
1971 – 1995: Celebrated weekend masses at St. John Bosco, Conyngham, PA
1985 – 1986: Served as the Assistant Director of Campus Ministries, University of Scranton
1985 – 2006: Administrative jobs with the Alumni Association at the University of Scranton
1990s: Celebrated weekend masses at St. Mary of the Assumption,
Scranton, PA
1996 – 2006: Ministered part-time at St. Thomas More, Lake Ariel, PA
Summary: McLaughlin’s niece made an allegation that in 1959, McLaughlin hugged her in a sexual manner. In 2008, an adult female reported that McLaughlin touched her in a sexual manner in 1963 when she was 10 years old.
Joseph F. Meighan
6/1968 – 9/1968: Asst. Pastor, St. Ann, Shohola, PA
9/1968 – 5/1970: Asst. Pastor, St. Boniface, Williamsport, PA
5/18/1970: Removed from St. Boniface and ordered to report for psychological evaluation and treatment
5/1970 – 6/1975: Asst. Pastor, St. Matthew, East Stroudsburg, PA
6/1975 – 5/1976: St. Meinrad, IN for further studies
5/1976 – 12/1981: Asst. Pastor, St. Nicholas, Wilkes -Bane, PA
12/1981 – 9/1984: Pastor, St. Martin of Tours, Jackson, PA
9/1984 – 9/1987: Pastor, St. Boniface, Wilkes -Bane, PA
9/1987 – 7/1990: Pastor, St. Therese, Shavertown, PA, Resigned as pastor, St. Therese
8/1991 – 1/2001: Chaplain, Holy Family Residence, Scranton, PA
1/2001 – 2/2001: Chaplain, Mercy Center Convent, Dallas, PA
2/2001 – 6/2002: St. Mary’s Villa Nursing Home, Elmhurst, PA
7/03/2002: Removed from ministry
Summary: In 1970, at least four boys were interviewed and reported that Meighan had disrobed and fondled them. In 1990, a mother observed Meighan in the process of disrobing her 17-year-old son in the parlor of the rectory.
Russel E. Motsay
5/1972 – 3/1973: Asst. Pastor, Most Precious Blood, Hazleton, PA
3/1973 – 9/1974: St. Aloysius, Wilkes -Bane, PA
9/1974 – 1/1975: St. Lawrence, Williamsport, PA
1/1975 – 9/1977: Sacred Heart, Peckville, PA
9/1977 – 8/1978: Asst. Pastor, Our Lady of Grace, Hazleton, PA
8/1978 – 6/1982: Asst. Pastor, St. John the Evangelist, Wilkes -Bane, PA
6/1982 – 9/1985: Asst. Pastor, Holy Name of Jesus, Swoyersville, PA
9/1985 – 7/1989: Pastor, St. James, Pleasant Mount, PA,
7/1989 – 7/1996: Pastor, St. Juliana, Rock Lake, PA
7/1996 – 4/2012: Pastor, Our Lady of Mount Carmel, Carbondale, PA
4/13/2012: Resigned
9/15/2015: Removed from priestly ministry
Summary: A victim reported that he would stay overnight at the rectory and would sleep in the same bed as Motsay. They would only be dressed in their underwear and Motsay would massage the victim, rubbing his inner thighs and fondling him. Motsay was interviewed and admitted to the allegations.
James F. Nolan
6/1929 – 9/1929: Asst. Pastor, St. Mary, Lackawaxen, PA
9/1929 – 1/1931: Asst. Pastor, St. Patrick, Wilkes -Bane, PA
1/1931 – 9/1939: Asst. Pastor, SS. Peter and Paul, Towanda, PA
9/1939 – 6/1944: Asst. Pastor, St. Vincent, Scranton, PA
6/1944 – 6/1950: Pastor, St. James, Pleasant Mount, PA
6/1950 – 6/1956: Pastor, St. Charles, Sugar Notch, PA
6/25/1956: Resigned
Summary: A 75-year-old man reported that he was groped by Nolan when he was 15-years-old as an altar boy.
W. Jeffrey Paulish
9/1988 – 6/1991: Asst. Pastor, Our Lady of the Snows, Clarks Summit, PA
6/1991 – 1/1992: Asst. Pastor, Annunciation, Williamsport, PA
1/1992 – 6/1992: Asst. Pastor, St. Cecilia, Exeter, PA
6/1992 – 7/1993: Asst. Pastor, Most Precious Blood, Hazleton, PA
7/1993 – 1/1994: Asst. Pastor, Sacred Heart, Peckville, PA
1/1994 – 7/2000: Chaplain, Little Flower Manor, Wilkes -Bane, PA
7/2000 – 7/2004: Pastor, St. Francis Xavier, Friendsville, PA St. Patrick, Middletown, PA and
St. Thomas the Apostle, Little Meadows, PA
7/2004 – 11/2004: Leave of Absence
11/2004 – 6/2005: Asst. Pastor, St. Joseph’s, Minooka, PA, Immaculate Conception and St. John the Baptist, Taylor, PA
6/2005 – 9/2005: Chaplain, St. Mary’s Villa, Elmhurst, PA
9/2005 – 11/2005: Asst. Pastor, St. Patrick, Scranton, PA
11/2005 – 3/2006: Leave of Absence
3/2006 – 10/2006: Residence, St. Cecilia, Exeter, PA
10/2006 – 7/2008: Asst. Pastor, St. Mary, Old Forge, PA
7/2008 – 7/2011: Administrator, St. Elizabeth, Bear Creek, PA
7/2011 – 8/2012: Leave of Absence
8/2012 – 11/2012: Asst. Pastor, Holy Cross, Olyphant, PA
11/2012 – 7/2013: Leave of Absence
7/2013 – 11/2013: Asst. Pastor, Prince of Peace, Old Forge, PA
9/20/2013: Leave of Absence
Summary: Campus security officers at the University of Scranton caught Paulish having sex with a 15-year-old boy. He pled guilty to corruption of a minor and was sentenced to 8 to 23 months in prison.
John A. Pender
6/1962 – 9/1962: Asst. Pastor, Queen of Peace, Hawley, PA
9/1962 – 2/1966: Asst. Pastor, Sacred Heart, Peckville, PA
2/1966 – 6/1967: Asst. Pastor, St. Leo, Ashley, PA
6/1967 – 10/1968: St. John, Susquehanna, PA
10/15/1968: Left the Diocese of Scranton without permission
Summary: An allegation from a “John Doe” was made in 2014 for sexual abuse of children.
Mark T. Rossetti
9/1985 – 1/1987: Asst. Pastor, St. John the Evangelist, Wilkes -Bane, PA
1/1987 – 9/1987: Asst. Pastor, SS Peter and Paul, Plains, PA
9/1987 – 7/1990: Asst. Pastor, St. John the Evangelist, Pittston, PA
7/1990 – 1991: Asst. Pastor, Holy Name, Swoyersville, PA
1991: Asst. Pastor, St. John the Evangelist, Pittston, PA
1994: Administrator, St. John the Baptist, Pittston, PA
7/1994 – 11/1995: Pastor, St. Joseph, St. Joseph, PA
11/29/1995: Resigned
Summary: In 1995, the diocese was informed of an incident where Rosetti hugged, French-kissed and inappropriate conversations about how far they should go.
Edward J. Shoback
6/1967 – 9/1967: Asst. Pastor, St. Ann, Shohola, PA
9/1967 – 9/1968: Asst. Pastor, St. Stephen, Plymouth, PA
9/1968 – 9/1970: Asst. Pastor, Holy Rosary, Ashley, PA
9/1970 – 9/1974: In residence, St. Therese, Wilkes -Bane, PA
9/1974 – 12/1980: Asst. Pastor, St. Aloysius, Wilkes -Bane, PA
12/1980 – 9/1987: Pastor, St. John Nepomucene, Luzerne, PA
9/1987 – 9/1989: Pastor, Transfiguration, West Hazleton, PA
9/1989 – 7/2004: Pastor, St.’ s Peter and Paul, Scranton, PA
7/20/2004: Removed from active ministry
5/22/2009: Dismissed from the clerical state
Summary: In 2004, a man contacted the diocese to report he was sexually abused by Shoback in 1981 at the age of 12. During a movie, Shoback removed the victim’s clothing and performed oral sex on him. Two other male victims reported similar incidents.
Thomas P. Shoback
5/1977 – 8/1977: Asst. Pastor, St. Matthew, East Stroudsburg, PA
9/1977 – 1/1984: Asst. Pastor, Nativity of the Blessed Mary, Plymouth, PA
1/1984 – 8/1984: Asst. Pastor, St. Joseph, Hazleton, PA
8/1984 – 2/1989: In residence, Sacred Heart, Plains, PA
2/1989 – 6/1997: Pastor, St. Andrew and St. Mary, Blossburg, PA
7/1997 – 7/2002: Pastor, Our Lady of Lourdes, Montoursville, PA
7/2002 – 7/2004: Pastor, Holy Redeemer, Harding -Falls, PA
7/2004 – 7/2006: Pastor, St. Joseph, Hudson, PA, Sacred Heart, Plains, PA
7/2006 – 11/2011: Pastor, Sacred Heart of Mary, Jermyn, PA
11/15/2011: Leave of Absence
5/01/2013: Resignation
11/14/2014: Removed from ministry
Summary: The diocese received a report that an 11-year-old boy was sexually assaulted by Shoback in 2006 while the boy was an altar server. Shoback denied the allegations, but the victim provided the name of another former altar boy who was also a victim.
Thomas D. Skotek
No further details were listed.
John J. Tamalis
5/1971 – 9/1971: Asst. Pastor, St. Mary of the Mount, Mount Pocono, PA
9/1971 – 9/1976: Asst. Pastor, Queen of Peace, Hawley, PA
9/1976 – 8/1985: St. Boniface, Williamsport, PA
9/1985 – 7/1990: Campus Ministry, Lycoming College, Williamsport, PA
7/1990 – 7/1996: Pastor, Holy Child, Mansfield, PA
7/1996 – 3/1997: Pastor, St. Lawrence, South Williamsport, PA
4/03/1997: Leave of Absence
2/02/1998: Removed from ministry
12/21/2007: Dispensation from clerical state
Summary: In 1997, a 33-year-old male reported to the diocese that he was sexually abused by Tamalis in 1976 when he was 13. Tamalis furnished alcohol to him and performed oral sex. Tamaris admitted that he probably abused nine boys and young men.
Virgil B. Thetherow
1/23/2015: Dispensation from clerical state
Summary: Thetherow admitted to downloading child pornography on a computer at the rectory of a church. He plead guilty to criminal charges and received a probationaly sentence.
Robert M. Timchak
7/1992 – 7/1994: Asst. Pastor, St. Mary of the Immaculate Conception, Wilkes -Bane, PA
7/1994 – 7/1996: Director of Religious Formation, Seton Catholic High School, Pittston, PA
7/1996 – 7/1998: Director of Religious Formation, Bishop Hoban High School, Wilkes -Bane, PA
7/1998 – 7/2006: Holy Savior, Wilkes -Bane, PA
6/2000 – 7/2006: Asst. Pastor, Annunciation, Williamsport, PA
7/2006 – 7/2007: Transfiguration, West Hazleton, PA St’s. Peter & Paul, Hazleton, PA
7/2007 – 4/2009: Leave of Absence
4/04/2009 Asst. Pastor, St. Vincent de Paul, Milford, PA
1/24/2014: Dispensation from clerical state
Summary: Timchak pled guilty to possessing and downloading child pornography in 2008.
Lawrence P. Weniger
6/1934 – 9/1940: Asst. Pastor, St. Boniface, Wilkes -Bane, PA
9/1940 – 6/1941: Asst. Pastor, St. Mary Magdolen, Honesdale, PA
6/1941 – 6/1949: Asst. Pastor, St. Mary, Scranton, PA
6/1949 – 9/1951: Pastor, St. Thomas, Little Meadows, PA
9/1951 – 9/1960: Pastor, St. John, Troy, PA
9/1960 – 5/1961: Pastor, St. Mary’s Assumption, Pittston, PA
5/1961 – 5/1968: Pastor, Sacred Heart, Luzerne, PA
5/19/1968: Prelate of Honor
3/08/1971: Diocesan Consultor
Summary: In 2002, an adult male said that he was sexually assaulted while serving as an altar boy in the 1960s.
Joseph B. Wilson
12/1994 – 7/1996: Asst. Pastor, St. Ignatius, Kingston, PA
7/1996 – 1/1998: Administrator, Ascension, Williamsport, PA
2/1998 – 7/1999: Chaplain, Marian Convent, Scranton, PA
7/1999 – 1/2000: Asst. Pastor, St. Nicholas, Wilkes -Bane, PA
1/2000 – 7/2002: Chaplain, Divine Providence Hospital, Williamsport, PA
7/03/2002:
8/19/2002: Removed from ministry
Summary: While at Holy Cross, allegations were made that he had sexually abused two boys. Wilson admitted to abusing one of the boys and was sent for evaluation.
Society of St. John
Christopher R. Clay
7/1998 – 7/2000: Catechist, Notre Dame High School, East Stroudsburg, PA
7/2000 – 5/2002: Chaplain, Bishop Hafey High School, Hazleton, PA
5/2002 – 2/2003: Administrative Leave, Removed from active ministry
2/2003 – 2/2003: Asst. Pastor, St. Thomas More, Lake Ariel. PA
2/2003: Leave of Absence
Eric S. Ensey
11/1997 – 4/200: Incardinated, Diocese of Scranton
4/2001 – 4/2002: Administrator Pro Tempore, St. Patrick, Milford, PA
4/2002: Removed From Active Ministry
11/2011: Tribunal – Diocese of Harrisburg, Pa: Removed From the Clerical
State
Carlos Urrutigoity
5/24/1998: Decree issued by Bishop James C Timlin establishing the Society of St John; Urrutigoity not issued a religious assignment
4/2002: Removed from active ministry
Summary for Clay, Ensey and Urrutigoity: The Society of St. Pius X was founded in 1970 by a retired missionary bishop. In 1988, the founder sought an agreement with the Holy See for lawful continuation and an agreement was reached.
In an effort to return disaffected members of the St. Pius X to membership in the Catholic Church, Bishop James C. Timlin interviewed a group of men – the Society of St. John including Carlos Urrutigoity, Eric Ensey, Daniel Fullerton and Marshal Roberts. No background checks or reviews were taken.
On Sept. 15, 2001, Timlin was informed that Urrutigoity made it a practice to sleep in the same bed with boys and young men. Urrutigoity was questioned and denied any immoral behavior, although admitted that there may have been occasions when overcrowding prompted shared sleeping arrangement.
In January 2002, Timlin received correspondence from the Pope, who send a letter written by the victim’s father accusing Urrutigoity and Ensey of sexual misconduct. Clay, who was staying at a St. John property, was also accused. No charges were filed after the statute of limitations had expired. Urrutigoity, Ensey and Clay were sent for clinical assessments and removed from active ministry.
Ensey, it was determined, did commit sexual abuse of a minor. Urrutigoity and Ensey were told not to engage in active ministry involving children.
Clay was reinstated, but ultimately declined the appointment and was granted a leave of absence.
While awaiting an investigation, Ensey travelled to Canada where it was learned he was active in a Catholic Church.
Benedict J. Van Der Putten
Summary: While in Los Gatos, California, Van der Putten had “indecent acts” with a 15-year-old girl, and attempted the same with another girl, age 17, around 2000.
He was sent to international headquarters in Switzerland, and then sent to an island monastery in Ireland. While there, he was expelled from the society.
In 2001, he became a member of the Society of Saint John and worked with the diocese of Scranton.
In 2001, Bishop Timlin was notified that there was a past sexual abuse allegation against van der Putten while in California. In 2002, Timlin and other administrators interviewed him, and he admitted involvement with a 16-year-old girl. Van der Putten said he kissed the girl and caressed her breast. He also exposed his genetalia. Van der Putten claimed there was “nothing erotic” about the encounter, just attempts to “build trust.”
Van der Putten did not have any contact with the diocese after being denied faculties in the diocese of Scranton in 2002. He is using a website to advertise his availability for conferences, retreats and youth camps while stating he is a priest in good standing.