Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown PA - BishopAccountability.org

51 Accused in This Diocese

Fr. Francis Ackerson

Ordained: 1946
Status: Accused

Diocese: Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown PA

Monsignor. Named in the 3/1/16 PA Grand Jury Report on the Diocese of Altoona Johnstown among priests "alleged to have engaged in sexually abusive acts with children." Abuse alleged 1955-56 of 15 year-old boy at St. Mary's Orphanage in Cresson PA, and included oral and attempted anal rape. Died 8/11/02.

Assignments:

PA Office of the Attorney General 03.01.16

Sources:

Fr. David Arsenault

Ordained: 1981
Status: Accused

Diocese: Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown PA

On 2/6/16 Bishop Bartchak announced that Arsenault and Rev. James Coveney had been put on leave while the diocese reexamined allegations of abuse. The PA Attorney General's 3/1/16 Grand Jury Report, describes sexual assaults in the early 1980s by Arsenault of a boy age 17-18, while assigned to St. Joseph's in Renovo PA. The priest became chaplain of a local high school's athletics program, hanging out with the boys in the locker room. One boy's parents encouraged their son to spend time with Arsenault, who insisted he counsel the boy at the parish twice a week. During sessions Arsenault would "wrestle" with the boy, then massage him, touching his legs and thighs. At least once he tried to grab the boy's penis. On a trip to D.C. the boy awoke to Arsenault grinding his penis into him and kissing him. The victim went on to attempt suicide twice. Arsenault remained in ministry, even after admitting to diocesan officials in 2005 to "horseplay" with the boy.

Assignments:

PA Office of the Attorney General 03.01.16

Sources:

Fr. Joseph J. Bender

Ordained: 1957
Status: Settled

Died: 08/7/2000
Diocese: Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown PA

Accused in an anonymous letter to Bishop Adamec in 8/1991 of the sexual abuse of a boy "approximately 100 times," in the 1970s. Sent for evaluation. Removed in 7/1992; reason given publicly was "ongoing health issues." Died 8/7/2000. Named in 3 civil suits filed in 2003. At least one plaintiff was a member of St. Joe's Little Singers, a children's choir founded by Bender. In 5/2004 the Diocese paid $3.71M to settle claims by 21 people alleging abuse by 11 priests, including Bender. The PA Attorney General's 3/1/2016 Grand Jury Report calls Bender a serial child predator who abused boys, ages 8-13, throughout most of his ministry. He targeted those whose parents hoped for a vocation for their sons and encouraged them to spend time with the priest. Other children called them "Benderites." Bender would take the boys on overnight trips, insisted they sleep without underwear, then assault them. He would show anger when a child resisted. His acts against boys included kissing, fondling, masturbation and oral sex.

Assignments:

PA Office of the Attorney General 03.01.16

Sources:

Fr. Harold N. Biller

Ordained: 1970
Status: Sued

Diocese: Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown PA

Biller was reportedly described in complaints filed in 2003-04 by attorney Richard Serbin as one of 14 diocesan priests "having a sexual interest in children." The others were: Gaborek, Kovach, Luddy, Skupien, Thomas Carroll, Inman, Robert Kelly, Grattan, McCaa, Bunn, John Boyle, McCamley, and Bender. When Biller retired in 2009, he was a monsignor and had been ecumenical minister and pastor of St Patrick's in Johnstown, a parish with an elementary school. As of 3/3/16 he resided in a home for the elderly and disabled run by the Sister Servants of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus in Cresson, PA. Died 10/31/18. Added at some point to the diocese's list, which notes allegations credible.

Sources:

Fr. Peter Bodenschatz

Ordained: 1933
Status: Accused

Diocese: Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown PA

Named in the 3/1/16 PA Grand Jury Report on the Diocese of Altoona Johnstown among priests "alleged to have engaged in sexually abusive acts with children." A man reported to Bishop Adamec in 2002 that Bodenschatz sexually abused him on many occasions when the man was an 8th grader and altar boy, in 1940. Bodenschatz was "associated with" St. Mary's in Nanty-Glo, PA during the time of the alleged abuse. Died 6/10/61.

Assignments:

PA Office of the Attorney General 03.01.16

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Fr. Charles F. Bodziak

Ordained: 1967
Status: Sued

Diocese: Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown PA

Placed on leave in 1/16 pending diocesan investigation into allegations of child sex abuse 30 years prior. Per the PA's 3/1/16 GJ Report, in 2003 a woman reported to the diocese that in 1971, when she was age 16 and in foster care, Bodziak had sexual intercourse with her repeatedly. She said he would pick her up in his car and take her to a place where teens would "make out." She was blamed for having a "love affair" with a priest and removed from foster care. Bodziak was assigned to St. Agnes in Lock Haven at the time. Lawsuit in 6/16 by two sisters, ages 47 and 49, alleging sexual abuse by Bodziak when one was in grades 2-6, the other when she was ages 8-14 during 1974-81. Bodziak was assigned to St. Leo's in Altoona at the time. He denied allegations. Suit dropped 12/17 due to 2-year statute of limitations. Revived in 6/19. It claims diocese received complaints in 1993 and 2003 and kept them in their "secret archive." In 7/21 the state Supreme Court dismissed the suit, citing the statute of limitations.

Assignments:

PA Office of the Attorney General 03.01.16

Sources:

Fr. John J. Boyle

Ordained: 1956
Status: Settled

Died: 12/14/2011
Diocese: Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown PA

Per PA Attorney General's 3/1/2016 Grand Jury Report, Boyle abused 5 boys 1958-1982. In 1969 a father reported to the Diocese and PA State Police that Boyle abused his 12-year-old son. Per Bishop Hogan's notes there was sufficient evidence for charges, but Boyle "could move." Boyle was put on "sick leave" then reassigned. He abused another boy, age 15, in 1971. In 1973 he plied a 14-year-old boy with alcohol to the point of unconsciousness, then raped him for the first of numerous times over 2 years. In 1982 he began a year of sexual assaults on a 16-year-old boy, giving him alcohol and lavish gifts. In 1992 the Diocese received a report that Boyle abused a 10- or 11-year-old boy 1958-1960. Abuse included fondling, masturbation and oral intercourse. Not until 1995 did Bishop Adamec send Boyle to treatment and allow him to retire. Boyle was the subject of 3 lawsuits in 2003. In 5/2004 the Diocese paid $3.71M to settle claims by 21 people alleging abuse by 11 priests, including Boyle. He died 12/14/2011.

Assignments:

PA Office of the Attorney General 03.01.16

Sources:

Fr. Martin Alfred Brady

Order: TOR
Ordained: 1956
Status: Settled

Died: 03/19/2003
Diocese: Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown PA

Named in a 2/05 lawsuit. Accused of abuse of 16-year-old boy in late the 1970s, when Brady was his teacher at Bishop Carroll High School in Ebensburg. Also worked in MN, VA and WV. Reportedly removed from ministry in 1972. Died in 3/03 in the Wheeling WV diocese. (The plaintiff in the 2/05 suit had become a priest; the diocese placed him on leave after he filed suit; he resigned from active priesthood in 4/06.) A second man came forward in 2012 to report a confidential settlement with the Order and Barry Robinson High in 2003 and 2004. Diocese refused to settle. Brady's name is included on the Richmond diocese's list 2/15/19.

Assignments:

GJ Presentment 03.15.16

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Fr. James F. Bunn

Ordained: 1964
Status: Accused

Diocese: Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown PA

PA Attorney General's 3/1/16 Grand Jury found that Bunn "engaged in sexual intercourse" repeatedly with a boy, ages 10-13, in the 1960s. Bunn had befriended the boy's family, parishioners of St. Andrew's in Johnstown, and visited often after his move to Sacred Heart in Altoona. Victim and his parents reported Bunn to Bishop Hogan in 1982. Bunn was kept in ministry. When Bunn became principal of McCort High School in 1984 and, along with accused priest Martin McCamley, continued corresponding with the victim, the family again approached Hogan. Hogan moved Bunn to another parish. When Adamec became Bishop they contacted him. Adamec met with Bunn, who admitted to "one incident." He sent Bunn for an evaluation; based on Bunn's self-report of no "pedophilic" interests, he was kept in ministry. There was another complaint in 2001. Bunn was removed from public ministry in 2002.

Assignments:

PA Office of the Attorney General 03.01.16

Sources:

Fr. Harold J. Burkhardt

Ordained: 1947
Status: Accused

Died: 03/19/2000
Diocese: Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown PA

Monsignor. A man told the Diocese in 2005 that Burkhardt sexually abused him when he was age 9, and Burkhardt was pastor of St. Mary Immaculate Conception in Altoona. The abuse included fondling, digital penetration of the boy's anus, and the priest forcing the boy to orally copulate him. Bishop Adamec's response was to have the Review Board hire private detectives to investigate the victim; he also relied on the input of "child predator" Rev. William Rosensteel, who told him the family didn't attend church often and he couldn't imagine Burkhardt doing "anything like [that]." The Diocese did not report the allegations to law enforcement. Died 3/19/2000.

Assignments:

PA Office of the Attorney General 03.01.16

Sources:

Fr. Andrew S. Campbell

Order: OSB
Ordained: 1981
Status: Settled

Diocese: Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown PA

Head of the English department at St. Vincent University when placed on leave in 2002. A woman filed suit in 5/03 alleging Campbell and two other priests abused her 16-year-old son at St. Vincent Archabbey in Latrobe 1980-82. Claims against Campbell were dismissed in 5/04, but son had filed individual suit in 2/04. Both suits settled.

Assignments:

BA.org Assignment Record

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Fr. Thomas M. Carroll

Ordained: 1971
Status: Sued

Diocese: Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown PA

Named in PA A.G.'s 3/1/16 Grand Jury Report among priests of the Altoona-Johnstown diocese "alleged to have engaged in sexually abusive acts with children." In 1/88 Bishop Adamec confronted Carroll about rumored behavior. Carroll admitted to "homosexual" behavior with a 17-year-old boy. Adamec suggested counseling. Carroll died 10/1/88. Two lawsuits filed in 2/03 included allegations against Carroll and 8 other "predator priests." In 2004 a man told the diocese that Carroll fondled and anally raped him after plying him with alcohol in 1971, when the man was an altar boy, age 12-13, at St. John Gaulbert's in Johnstown. The once devout boy and good student spiraled downward and struggled with alcoholism. In 7/15 a fellow priest testified it was "common knowledge" that Carroll molested children and that he was always " in the company of young boys."

Assignments:

PA Office of the Attorney General 03.01.16

Sources:

Fr. Athanasius C. Cherry

Order: OSB
Ordained: 1968
Status: Settled

Diocese: Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown PA

Placed on leave in 2002. A woman filed suit in 5/2003 against Cherry and two other priests, the Benedictine Archabbey and the Altoona-Johnstown diocese alleging that her son had been abused by all three priests at St. Vincent Archabbey in Latrobe. Claims against Cherry and one other priest were dismissed in 5/2004. The son had filed an individual suit in 2/2004. The mother's remaining claims settled in 2/2005 but the son's did not.

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Fr. Martin A. Cingle

Ordained: 1973
Status: Accused

Diocese: Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown PA

Per the PA A.G.'s 3/1/16 Grand Jury Report, in 1979 Cingle fondled a sleeping 15-year-old altar boy who awoke and struck him, as told to Bishop Adamec by the victim in a 6/02 meeting. Adamec met with Cingle in 7/02, who said he couldn't remember why, but acknowledged the boy struck him. Adamec sent Cingle for a psych evaluation; it yielded "no evidence of psychopathology." He did not report the matter to law enforcement. Cingle was returned to ministry. Adamec asked the victim to put in writing what occurred in 1979; the victim did not comply and case was closed 6/03. In 9/15 Cingle admitted to the Grand Jury that he was lying next to the boy on a cot in his underwear and a t-shirt on the night in question, and indicated he could have accidentally touched the boys genitals. Per the A.G.'s request, Bishop Bartchak removed Cingle from active ministry in 10/15.

Assignments:

PA Office of the Attorney General 03.01.16

Sources:

Fr. Dennis E. Coleman

Ordained: 1970
Status: Sued

Died: 03/12/2014
Diocese: Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown PA

Per the PA Attorney General's 3/1/2016 Grand Jury Report, in 1979 the parents of a 10-year-old boy told Bishop Hogan of concerns about their son's behavior and a comment about Fr. Coleman. Hogan met with the boy, who said Coleman invited boys to sleep over in the rectory, would 'hypnotize' them, and sniff and then rub his penis against their feet. Also, Coleman asked the boy if he could photograph him in his underwear. Hogan told Coleman to talk with the parents, including the boy if needed. If it went badly, he might need to transfer. Transferred; similarly abused boy a age 12-13, and at least three more at his next parish. Details noted by Hogan in "secret archives." Coleman refused treatment. Suspended by Bishop Adamec in 1987, who got him a job at the county courthouse. Coleman boasted publicly about it and the judge involved in helping Adamec rescinded the offer, saying "it would be a disaster for the Church." Suspended in 7/1988 for refusing treatment. Named in a 2003 lawsuit against the diocese. Laicized in 2004. Died 3/12/2014.

Assignments:

PA Office of the Attorney General 03.01.16

Sources:

Fr. James B. Coveney

Ordained: 1964
Status: Accused

Diocese: Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown PA

Per the PA AG's 3/1/6 Grand Jury Report, Coveney fondled the genitals of a 10-year-old boy while assigned to St. Joseph's in Portage PA in the 1980s, as reported to Bishop Adamec in 1996. Adamec sent Coveney to treatment then returned him to ministry. Also accused in 1988 of fondling the genitals of five 7th-grade boys; sent to treatment by Adamec. No reports to police either time. Coveney retired in 2011. Placed on leave in 2/16 during re-examination by diocese of previous allegations against clergy.

Assignments:

Office of the Attorney General 03.01.16

Sources:

Fr. Alvin T. Downey

Order: OSB
Ordained: 1970
Status: Settled

Died: 06/13/2010
Diocese: Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown PA

In 2002 the Latrobe PA St. Vincent Archabbey Benedictines received an allegation that Downey sexually abused a minor in 1981, while assigned to St. John the Evangelist in Bellefonte. A woman filed suit in 2003 alleging that Downey and two other priests sexually abused her son in 1980-81 when he was 16. She alleged that the knowledge put her in counseling and her son in the hospital. Court ordered that the woman's suit against the two other priests be dismissed. Her son filed a separate suit in 2/04 against the same defendants. Both settled in 2/05. Included in 8/18 on the St. Vincent Archabbey's list of credibly accused. Downey died in 2010.

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Fr. Donald W. Dusza

Ordained: 1983
Status: Accused

Diocese: Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown PA

Pastor of Prince of Peace in North Cambria when placed on leave in 6/2019 due to an allegation that he engaged in sexual misconduct in the 1980s with a "young person."

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Fr. Mario Fabbri

Donate Photo

Ordained: 1931
Status: Accused

Diocese: Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown PA

Per the PA Attorney General's 3/1/16 Grand Jury report, in 1950 Fabbri anally raped a 9th-grade boy in his rectory bed at St. John Gaulbert parish in Johnstown PA. It said Fabbri raped the boy further in NY, and in Montreal and Quebec. In 1999 the victim contacted the diocese. He said Fabbri told him, "you are not as cooperative as the others." Last known to be in Italy. Presumed dead.

Assignments:

PA Office of the Attorney General 03.01.16

Sources:

Fr. Elwood F. Figurelle

Ordained: 1963
Status: Convicted

Diocese: Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown PA

Per PA AG's 3/1/16 Grand Jury report, Figurelle was arrested in 1973 for indecent exposure. He was moved to another parish In 10/03 Figurelle resigned from his parish position and was federally charged with downloading child pornography from the Internet. Had been on leave since 3/03 when FBI searched the rectory and seized a computer containing child porn. Investigators would not permit Diocese to release information while investigation was ongoing. Figurelle pled guilty 10/03. Sentenced 2004 to 15-21 months. Given retirement status after release. Died in farming accident 7/08.

Assignments:

PA Office of the Attorney General 03.01.16

Sources:

Fr. Joseph Gaborek

Ordained: 1971
Status: Sued

Diocese: Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown PA

Per PA AG's 3/1/16 Grand Jury Report, Gaborek molested and brutally sexually assaulted a 16-year-old boy in 1982. Boy ran for help. State Police investigated. Bishop Hogan struck an agreement with police - Gaborek was quietly sent to MI for "treatment" then assigned to another parish. In 1984 Hogan sent Gaborek "on retreat" to Orchard Lake, which was a boys' school. Placed on permanent leave in 7/88. Arrested in 9/89 for sexual assault of a dog in a parking lot. In 5/99, charged with molesting a 14-year-old runaway after giving him beer and showing him porn. Named as "predator priest" in a 2/03 civil suit. Laicization announced in 2004.

Assignments:

Office of the Attorney General 03.01.16

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Fr. Stephen J. Gergel

Ordained: 1962
Status: Accused

Died: 07/22/2024
Diocese: Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown PA

Pastor of St. Francis of Assisi in Johnstown, 11/1969-719/89, then a U.S. Navy Chaplain until he retired in 2005. Named publicly as accused by the Diocese on its list as of 1/16/2020. On leave pending Diocese's decision regarding the allegation(s). Died in FL 7/22/2024.

Sources:

Tribune Democrat 05.05.19
Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown list accessed 01.16.20
Anderson Family Funeral Homes 07.22.24

Fr. Bernard V. Grattan

Ordained: 1975
Status: Settled

Diocese: Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown PA

Complaint to Bishop Adamec in 1994 that Grattan sexually abused a boy, ages 12-14, in the 1980s. Sent to treatment. Reassigned as a hospital chaplain and allowed to live in a rectory. Sexually abused an "incapacitated patient." Suspended 2002. Civil suit filed 3/03. Laicization announced 6/04. Suit against Grattan settled as part of a $3.7M settlement 5/04 involving 21 plaintiffs and 11 priests. In 2008 another man reported previous abuse by Grattan. Per PA AG's 3/1/16 Grand Jury Report, Sr. Marilyn Welch of the Allegation Review Board "acted more as an investigator against the victim than an advocate for the claim or the abused." Further, it concluded Bishops Hogan and Adamec endangered the public. Grattan admitted to the Grand Jury his abuse of boys.

Assignments:

PA Office of the Attorney General 03.01.16

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Fr. Leonard Inman

Ordained: 1961
Status: Sued

Died: 06/1/2001
Diocese: Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown PA

Named as one of 9 "predator" priests known to the Diocese in lawsuits filed by 5 plaintiffs against 2 other priests in 2/2003. Bishop Adamec said Inman had been out of public ministry since 1989 and that assignments while he was active were deliberate and done for monitoring. Per the PA AG's 3/1/2016 Grand Jury Report, "Bishop Hogan was very much aware that Inman was raping children..." while assigned to Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament 1971-1986. One boy reported to police in 1986 that Inman started raping him when he was age 11, 4 years prior. Inman was known to "troll" the area for sex with boys, after which he would pay them. Hogan denied police investigators access to the Cathedral. They wanted to wire a witness, but Inman suddenly stopped "trolling the ally [sic] for sex." The investigation stopped after Hogan met with the Altoona Police Chief, and Inman was sent for treatment. He died 6/1/2001.

Assignments:

PA Office of the Attorney General 03.01.16

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Fr. Robert Joseph Kelly

Ordained: 1974
Status: Settled

Diocese: Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown PA

Per the PA AG's 3/1/16 Grand Jury report, Kelly sexually abused a boy, age 12-13, in 1975-77 while assigned to a State College parish. He reportedly groomed the boy with drive-in movies, drives to the mountains and offers of beer. Victim notified diocese in 1993; Bishop Adamec sent Kelly to treatment then reassigned him, despite being assessed as "pedophilic" and the recommendation he avoid young people. Victim sued in 2003. Report said Kelly also made advances on a 14-year-old boy in 1978. Kelly was identified as one of 9 "predator" priests known to the diocese per lawsuits filed by 5 people against 2 other priests in 2/03. In 5/04 the diocese settled claims for 21 plaintiffs for $3.7M, including claim against Kelly. Remained in ministry until 2/27/15, when removed during internal investigation after review of previous allegations. On Charleston diocese's list 3/29/19. Was visiting priest there.

Fr. George D. Koharchik

Ordained: 1974
Status: Accused

Diocese: Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown PA

Removed from St Catherine of Siena in Mount Union 8/12 and placed on leave after allegations of sexual misconduct with minors in Cambria County in late 1970s. By 8/25/12, several other accusers had approached the diocese. DA's office turned the investigation over to the AG's office 11/12. Per the AG's 3/1/16 Grand Jury Report, Koharchik "is certainly a child predator." He admitted to the GJ in 3/15 to molesting "close to" 12 children. He would grope young boys while driving and playing Bill Cosby tapes which featured the word "penis." He had young boys sleep, shower and wrestle with him, and sit on his lap. He would pat their buttocks. Koharchik served on the Presbytery Council during the trial of admitted child molester, Rev. Francis Luddy. Defrocked 1/22/16.

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Fr. William Kovach

Ordained: 1955
Status: Accused

Diocese: Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown PA

Accused in 1982 of molesting a boy, showing him porno movies, fondling and performing oral sex on him. Admitted the abuse to Bishop Hogan; kept in ministry, not to have contact with children. Kovach nonetheless was assigned to a parish with no enforced restrictions, even teaching children. He was evaluated in1988 but ministry was not limited until 2001. He was identified in 2/03 as one of 9 "predator" priests known to the diocese per lawsuits filed by 5 individuals against 2 other priests. The PA Attorney General's 3/1//16 Grand Jury report concluded that "Kovach was a child predator who had been enabled by the Diocese," citing Bishops Hogan and Adamec as keeping Kovach's secrets. Police were never notified.

Assignments:

PA Office of the Attorney General 03.01.16

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Deacon Thomas M. Lemmon

Status: Accused

Died: 03/6/2003
Diocese: Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown PA

Lemmon, an ordained deacon and religion teacher at Bishop McCort High School, had just been suspended by the Diocese when he fled to Canada in 3/2003 with a 15-year-old female student. As police neared his mother's apartment, Lemmon fell/jumped to his death from a 4th floor balcony.

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Fr. Germain Lieb

Order: OSB
Ordained: 1945
Status: Accused

Died: 04/30/2006
Diocese: Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown PA

Named publicly as accused by the St. Vincent Archabbey in Latrobe PA Benedictines as credibly accused. The archabbey received an allegation in 2018 that Lieb sexually abused a minotr 1975-1978, while assigned to Immaculate Conception in New Germany PA. Lieb died in 2006.

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Fr. Anthony M. Little

Ordained: 1982
Status: Accused

Diocese: Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown PA

Monsignor. Removed as pastor of St. Patrick in Newry in 3/13 pending investigation of an allegation that he sexually abused a boy in the 1990s. Had been pastor in Newry since 2002. DA's office received notice from bishop on 3/21/13. Little admitted to the PA Grand Jury that he provided the boy many "amenities" for years, including a home, electronics and money. The GJ called Little a "master manipulator" who attempted to keep the victim from his family and friends, and in whose life he was a "near constant presence."

Assignments:

PA Office of the Attorney General 03.01.16

Sources:

Fr. Francis E. Luddy

Ordained: 1967
Status: Settled

Diocese: Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown PA

Two brothers filed separate civil suits in 1980s alleging abuse by Luddy, their godfather, as early as 1978. Other brother awarded $1.5M in 1994 trial. Multiple appeals but final ruling for plaintiff in 3/06, who died in 4/12. One suit dropped in 1992; in response, Bishop Adamec put out a press release calling the dropped claims "baseless," despite knowing Luddy had admitted abusing at least 10 youths. More suits filed. In 5/04 diocese paid $3.71M to settle claims against several priests, including Luddy. Per AG's 3/1/16 Grand Jury Report, "Luddy molested, groped, masturbated, sodomized and performed oral sex on at least 10 children" ages 10-17. The report harshly criticizes the diocese's mishandling of the Luddy case, and calls the lack of response to it by law enforcement "concerning." Admitted he had been abusing children since ordination.

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Fr. Thomas K. Mabon

Ordained: 1957
Status: Settled

Diocese: Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown PA

Monsignor. Retired in 2001. Suspended in 2002 after an allegation he abused an altar boy 1988-90 at St. Mary's in Hollidaysburg. Mabon denied the charges. Sued 2003. Criminal charges dismissed due to SOL. Sent by Bishop Adamec to treatment, then allowed to resume ministry in 11/03. Civil suit continued. In 5/04 the diocese paid $3.71M to settle claims by 21 people alleging abuse by 11 priests, including Mabon. In 2005 a woman reported sexual abuse by Mahon at St. Mary's when she was a girl. Per the AG's 3/1/16 Grand Jury Report Mabon told the girl, "if you tell, everyone would believe you instigated it and that's your fault." The Grand Jury called Mabon a "predator" and found that Bishops Hogan and Adamec failed the children.

Assignments:

PA Office of the Attorney General 03.01.16

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Fr. Nicholas J. Mancini

Ordained: 1975
Status: Accused

Diocese: Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown PA

Retired. Named publicly as accused by the Diocese on its list as of 1/16/2020. On leave pending the Diocese's decision regarding the allegation(s). In 2024 Mancini is shown as a retired priest of the Diocese of Youngstown.

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Fr. Joseph D Maurizio

Ordained: 1987
Status: Sentenced

Diocese: Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown PA

Homeland Security raided rectory 9/12/14. Charged with illicit sexual conduct in foreign place and possession of child porn. Suspended. Accused in federal agent's 9/25/14 affidavit of sexual abuse in 3/09 of two boys living at center for street children in Honduras. Center's board members reported Maurizio 11/09 to diocese, FBI, and PA AG. Maurizio remained pastor. Resumed trips to Central American countries by 2011. Prosecutor cited 2 new allegations by boys in PA 9/29/14, ages 5 and 7 and rectory computer photos showing genitals of polio-stricken boy, now deceased. Per prosecutors in 9/15, 4th boy alleged abuse by Maurizio. One boy recanted at trial 9/15. Convicted 9/22/15 of illicit sexual conduct in foreign places, possession of child porn and international money laundering. Named in PA A.G.'s 3/1/16 Grand Jury Report. Sentenced 3/2/16 to 16 years., 8 mos jail and life probation. Appealed. Denied 7/24/17.

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Fr. Robert C. Mazur

Ordained: 1976
Status: Accused

Diocese: Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown PA

Monsignor. Retired. Placed on leave in 3/19 during investigation of alleged "misconduct" with a minor, years prior. Taught at Bishop Guilfoyle High School after ordination, principal there 1984-89, then director of diocese's Office of Worship. Other assignments included parishes in Roaring Spring, Claysburg and Juniata; rector of Blessed Sacrament Cathedral since 1995; Our Lady of Fatima in Altoona administrator since 2015. As of 1/16/20 included on diocese's list pending its decision regarding the allegations.

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Fr. Francis B. McCaa

Ordained: 1948
Status: Sued

Died: 05/24/2007
Diocese: Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown PA

Monsignor. PA AG's 3/1/16 Grand Jury Report calls. McCaa "a monster" in his sex abuse of boys, ages 8-15, at Holy Name parish and school in Edensburg, 1961-85. At least 15 victims, maybe hundreds; at least two died by suicide. McCaa would ensure altar boys did not wear pants under their cassocks so he could reach under to touch and squeeze their genitals or push his finger into their anuses. He grabbed one victim's penis and said, in front of other boys, "If you ever use this, I'm going to rip it off." Abuse usually in the sacristy, sometimes rectory, and in confession. Bishop Hogan knew by 1985. Parent contacted DA's office, per instruction of a child care official. Hogan met with Assistant DAs re danger public would find out. DAs agreed to meet with parents group to diffuse anger. Sent to "treatment," then given hospital chaplaincy in WV with Hogan's "glowing recommendation." "Retired" 1993, died in 2007. Subject of multiple lawsuits. On Wheeling-Charleston diocese's list late 2018.

Assignments:

PA Office of the Attorney General, 03.01.16

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Fr. Martin D. McCamley

Ordained: 1962
Status: Settled

Diocese: Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown PA

Per PA AG's 3/1/16 Grand Jury Report, in 1981 Bishop Hogan dismissed a report that McCamley fondled a 16-year-old boy, then allowed the priest to be Vice-Principal of Bishop McCort High. Another report made in 2001 of fondling of 13-year-old boy prior to 1977, on overnights in the boy's home. The boy had been molested by McCamley's sex partner, Fr. James Bunn. Bunn apparently passed the boy off to McCamley. McCamley was sent for evaluations in 2001 and 2003. Suspended in 2003 after accusations by 4 men of abuse while at McCourt High and St. Patrick's in Johnstown. Retired to Orlando FL in 2004. Another accusation in 2008 of abuse of boy decades earlier, while assigned to St. Patrick's.

Assignments:

PA Office of the Attorney General 03.01.16

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Fr. Matthew E. Misurda

Ordained: 1977
Status: Accused

Diocese: Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown PA

Pastor of St. Clare of Assisi parish when placed on leave in 9/19 due to allegations of "sexual misconduct involving minors" in the late 1970s-early 1980s. Included on diocese's list as of 1/16/20, remained on leave pending diocese's decision.

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Fr. Regis Myers

Ordained: 1954
Status: Accused

Diocese: Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown PA

Per the PA Attorney General's 3/1/16 Grand Jury report, a man told the diocese in 1997 of misconduct by Myers when the man was a 15-year-old postulate of the Third Order Regular of the Franciscan Friars in Hollidaysburg PA. He said he met Myers there, who got him to live with him as a housekeeper at Myers' parish, St. Catherine Siena in Duncansville. Myers was said to have told the boy to sleep in his bedroom and, while naked, invited the boy to shower with him. The diocese did not contact law enforcement; instead, they tried to put the man in contact with Myers. Died 1/13/11.

Assignments:

PA Office of the Attorney General 03.01.16

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Br. Christian Neetz

Order: TOR
Status: Accused

Died: 10/12/2002
Diocese: Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown PA

Per 3/15/16 PA Grand Jury Presentment, Neetz raped a child in the 1950s while assigned to Highland Hall in Hollidaysburg, as reported by the victim in 2009. The report said further that the victim was abused by other members of the T.O.R. Franciscans years later. Neetz worked also in VA, MD, DC, OH, and FL. He died 10/12/02.

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Fr. Daniel F. O’Friel

Ordained: 1961
Status: Accused

Died: 12/15/1981
Diocese: Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown PA

Per the PA Attorney General's 3/1/2016 Grand Jury Report, O'Friel is known to have sexually abused two male students at Bishop Carroll High School while he was principal in the 1970s. With each boy, O'Friel asked details about their intimacy with their girlfriends, then would touch the victims' genitals and expose himself. O'Friel died 12/15/1981. The first victim reported the abuse to the Diocese in 2004. The Grand Jury said the second victim "struggled greatly" with the abuse and later sought counseling as a student at State College; his counselor was accused priest Rev. Robert Kelly, who pushed the boy's head into his lap. The victim was subsequently hospitalized. The Grand Jury called O'Friel a "child predator."

Assignments:

Attorney General’s Grand Jury Report 03.01.16

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Fr. John J. Palko

Ordained: 1967
Status: Accused

Died: 05/31/2005
Diocese: Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown PA

Per the PA Attorney General's 3/1/2016 Grand Jury Report, Palko sexually assaulted a 16-year-old girl in the 1980s. She was a Bishop Guilfoyle High School student while he was assigned to St. Mary's in Gallitzin. Palko's victim informed the Diocese in 2002. Bishop Adamec kept Palko in ministry and began an investigation of the victim, using intimidation tactics against her. The Grand Jury found that "in the Allegation Review Board the Diocese holds all the rights, and the victim holds only the right to be harassed and questioned." Palko died 5/31/2005.

Assignments:

PA Attorney General’s Grand Jury Report 03.01.16

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Fr. Anthony J. Petracca

Ordained: 1985
Status: Charged

Diocese: Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown PA

Worked short-term as an assistant in a number of parishes, and as a hospital chaplain and campus minister. There are several gaps in Petracca's assignment history: 1988-1989 (not indexed in the Catholic Directory), 2000-2010 (Absent on Leave), 2010-2012, 2014-2015 (not indexed in the Catholic Directory). He is listed as in residence at a Salt Lake City, UT parish while on leave 2004-2005. Placed on leave 7/5/2017 due to an allegation of an incident of misconduct with a minor in the mid-1980s. Law enforcement notified, per the diocese. Included on diocese's list as of 1/16/2020, noting that he remained on leave pending the Diocese's decision. Arrested 10/11/2023 at his home in Hollidaysburg, charged with child pornography possession and criminal use of a communication facility.

Assignments:

BA.org Assignment Record

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Fr. Gerard J. Ream

Ordained: 1954
Status: Accused

Diocese: Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown PA

Per the PA Attorney General's 3/1/16 Grand Jury Report, in 1966 Ream "took special interest" in a female student at Bishop Carroll High School, where he taught religion. He counseled her and helped her get into college, including providing money. He visited her there and insisted she see him on visits home, during which time he engaged in sex with her. When she fell in love with a boy at school, he harassed her and she grew frightened. She reported Ream to the diocese in 2008. He died 4/18/08.

Assignments:

PA Office of the Attorney General 03.01.16

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Seminarian Leonard Riforgiato

Order: SJ
Status: Sued

Died: 01/16/1999
Diocese: Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown PA

Seminarian. Named publicly as accused on the Jesuits Northeast Province list 1/15/2019. It notes a report in 1969 of abuse of minors 1964-1966, and that he admitted to the abuse. Riforgiato left the Jesuits in 1972. Taught for 27 years at Penn State's Shenango Valley campus and reportedly "focused on youth activities." Died in 1999. Two lawsuits filed in 8/2019 alleged sexual assault of a child and rape of another. One was filed on behalf of a victim who died by suicide at age 32.

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Fr. David R. Rizzo

Ordained: 1999
Status: Accused

Diocese: Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown PA

Administrator of St. Augustine's in Dysart and St. Monica's in Chest Springs when placed on leave in 9/2019, due to an allegation of sexual misconduct with a minor occurring several years prior. Rizzo had also been placed on leave in 2016 due to an unspecified complaint not involving minors. He was assigned at that time to Our Lady of Lourdes in Altoona. Included on the diocese's list as of 1/16/2020. On leave pending diocese's decision as to the allegation(s) against him.

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Fr. William A. Rosensteel

Ordained: 1969
Status: Accused

Died: 06/24/2007
Diocese: Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown PA

Per the PA Attorney General's 3/1/2016 Grand Jury Report, Rosensteel was accused in 2006 of "almost constant" sexual abuse in the 1970s of boy, ages 9-15, at St. Patrick's in Johnstown. Fr. Dennis Coleman and Rosensteel played sex comedy albums for the victim and other boys. The victim refused to join him and other men in a sauna at the seminary, so Rosensteel told the boy's parents that he was bad and needed drugs. An older boy in a special Rosensteel group raped the victim who said, "this is for Father." In 2007 a man told the Diocese he and 8 other boys were abused by Rosensteel at St. Patrick's. Boys slept in the rectory and went with Rosensteel on trips; all would sleep in their underwear, and one boy was chosen to sleep with the priest. Boys showered with him. The abuse included deep tongue kisses and fondling. The victim's mother told Msgr. Finn in the mid-1990s of the abuse. Finn kept no record of it. After a 4th victim emerged in 2007, Rosensteel died by suicide. Bishop Adamec said after the death, he might have retired "with some type of ministry."

Assignments:

PA Office of the Attorney General 03.01.16

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Fr. James F. Skupien

Ordained: 1966
Status: Accused

Diocese: Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown PA

Skupien was principal of Bishop Guilfoyle High in 1981 when police found him naked in his car with a youth. Per the PA Attorney General's 3/1/16 Grand Jury report, the police officer was told by the DA to "let it go." Bothered, the officer informed Msgr. Saylor, who told him they "knew about him" and "they even have a retreat that they sent these priests to." Skupien was kept in ministry. Bishop Hogan's "Secret Archives" note "Chief M. was thanked for his discretion." In 2008 victim told the diocese Skupien would pay him for oral sex, including at the St. Joseph's rectory in Williamsburg PA. Also in 2008 a man reported that when he was a boy 1968-71, Skupien forced him into oral sex. Skupien was removed from ministry in 1984 due to "alcoholism." Retired 1995. Died 2/11/96.

Assignments:

PA Office of the Attorney General 03.01.16

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Fr. Joseph J. Strittmatter

Ordained: 1956
Status: Sued

Died: 08/21/2014
Diocese: Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown PA

Per the PA Attorney General's 3/1/2016 Grand Jury Report, the Diocese learned in 1991 that Strittmatter molested a girl, from age 6 to her teens, 1961-1969. He would force her head into his lap. He admitted the abuse. Bishop Adamec kept him in ministry until 1992 when he was accused of masturbating to a female parishioner during confession between 1987-1992. In 2002 Strittmatter admitted to past abuse of an 8-year-old girl, saying "I was trying to learn about sex." The Diocese did not call police. Died 8/21/2014. The Grand Jury wrote, "the exact number of Father Strittmatter's victims may never be known."

Assignments:

PA Office of the Attorney General 03.01.16

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Fr. Raymond Waldruff

Order: TOR
Ordained: 1953
Status: Sued

Died: 03/25/1985
Diocese: Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown PA

Named in Altoona-Johnstown 3/16 GJ report. Per report, abused boy 1964-67 in Altoona diocese and monastery in Hollidaysburg. Allegations 5/16 that Waldruff raped a teen boy in Altoona, bribing him with alcohol, money and cars, and making him dress as a woman. Sent to KY 1967. Suit filed 4/02 alleging abuse by Waldruff of boy, age 11, around 1968, in Owensboro. Accuser and his parents told bishop; sent for treatment, reassigned. Transferred to WV in 1972. Sent to MA for treatment 1976. May have abused in Worcester MA, where he was sent 1979. Living in NY 1980. Dismissed by Order 1983. Died 3/25/85. On Wheeling-Charleston diocese's list in late 2018. On Owensboro's list 4/12/19, noting five allegations, two substantiated.

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Fr. Benedict Wolf

Order: GHM
Ordained: 1941
Status: Accused

Died: 04/20/1997
Diocese: Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown PA

Per the PA Attorney General's 3/1/16 Grand Jury Report (name spelled Wolfe), Wolf molested a 17-year-old girl in McConnellsburg PA in 1979, where he was assigned to St. Stephen's. The girl was visiting the area with her family; Wolf invited the family to stay in the rectory. He gave the girl a private room, then sexually assaulted her there during daily visits. Wolf's victim reported him to the diocese years later. On Glenmary Home Missioners list 10/11/19. Joined the Glenmary order in 1941, left in 1975 after working in PA, OH, KY, DC. Died 4/20/97. Included in 1/20 on the Cincinnati archdiocese's list of those against whom there are substantiated allegations. Added to the Owensboro diocese's list in 5/22.

Assignments:

PA Office of the Attorney General 03.01.16

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