Fr. Richard A. Arko
Arrested 1/2004 on charges that he was growing marijuana in the church rectory and selling it. Police learned of the marijuana from an informant who also said he had been in a sexual relationship with Arko since he was 15 and that the priest would give him gifts, money and drugs in exchange for sex. In 7/2004 Arko also lost his state license to perform massage therapy, based on the felony conviction for growing pot. Resigned from ministry in 2005. Laicization announced 7/20/2015. Included on the diocese’s list of credibly accused in 6/2019.
- Akron Beacon Journal 01.23.04
- Cleveland Plain Dealer 01.23.04
- Akron Beacon Journal 01.26.04
- Akron Beacon Journal 02.05.04
- Akron Beacon Journal 02.11.04
- Cleveland Plain Dealer 04.07.04
- Akron Beacon Journal 08.13.04
- Seattle Post-Intelligencer 10.30.04
- Diocese of Cleveland Notice 07.20.15
- Diocese of Cleveland List 06.21.19
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