Diocese of Pittsburgh PA - BishopAccountability.org

130 Accused in This Diocese

Fr. Alvin J. Adams

Ordained: 1967
Status: Accused

Removed in 3/2009 from parish assignment and position as chaplain at Bishop Canevin High after an allegation that he had sexually abused a minor in the late 1960s in his first assignment. Three accusers known as of 2/2010; the only one deemed credible by the diocese was a woman who alleged he fondled her at Mon Valley HS in the late 1970s. Permanently restricted in 2/2010 to supervised ministry as a convent chaplain; assignment withdrawn after complaints from parents of a nearby school. In the 8/14/18 Pennsylvania Grand Jury Report, the profile of accused priest John J. Huber states that when Huber worked at St. Canice church in Knoxville PA in the Pittsburgh diocese (he was assigned there 1968-1973), a boy in the fourth or fifth grade disclosed in confession with Huber that "another priest by the name of Father Adams had touched him in his genital area." Huber subsequently abused the penitent himself, it is alleged. The 1970 Official Catholic Directory lists Rev. Alvin J. Adams as one of Huber's colleagues at St. Canice. Adams was assigned to St. Canice in 1967-1972 and was accused in 2009 of abusing a boy during that assignment. It is not known whether the 2009 accuser is the same boy who is mentioned in the Huber entry of the Pennsylvania report. It is also not known whether a redacted entry in the Pennsylvania report is about Rev. Alvin J. Adams.

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Fr. James R. Adams

Donate Photo

Ordained: 1963
Status: Accused

Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

First named publicly as accused in the PA Grand Jury report released 8/14/2018. Included on the diocese's list of credibly accused. In 1992 a man told Fr. David Zubik that Adams sexually assaulted him in the 1970s when he was and 8- to 12-year-old parishioner of Francis of Assisi in Finleyville. The man said Adams touched his genitals over his clothes while driving on outings, and that the priest would do this to other boys, too. Adams was sent to treatment at St. Michael's Community in St. Louis, MO but left before the program. His faculties were with drawn in 2003 and he was permanently removed from ministry. Adams died in 2011.

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PA Grand Jury Report Profile 08.14.18

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Fr. James L. Armstrong

Ordained: 1977
Status: Accused

Died: 05/3/2012
Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

First named publicly as accused in the PA Grand Jury report released 8/14/2018. Included on the diocese's list of credibly accused. The diocese knew as early as 1990 that Armstrong was accused of giving homeless Pittsburgh boys drugs, alcohol and money in exchange for sex. Sent to St. Luke Institute in MD for evaluation in 5/1991. Placed on leave, sent to inpatient treatment at St. Michael Center in St. Louis 7/1-91-12/1991. Returned to ministry. On leave again 7/2007. In 2009 an alleged victim asked the diocese for counseling in 9/09. He had been a "street kid" and said "Fr. Tom" had him and a "hustler" perform violent sex acts on him for several years when he was a teen in the mid-1980s. Armstrong died in 2012.

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PA Grand Jury Report Profile 08.14.18

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Fr. John M. Bauer

Ordained: 1973
Status: Accused

Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

First named publicly in the PA Grand Jury report released 8/14/2018. In 10/2013 a man told the diocese that when he was a boy in the late 1970s-early 1980s, Bauer and another priest, Rev. Michael Romero, would give him and other boys alcohol and talk with them about masturbation. He said Bauer would also "wrestle" with him and other boys. Diocese said Bauer was not removed because the alleged victim said Bauer didn't abuse him. The man asked for help with counseling to deal with repressed issues of sexual abuse. Bauer said the alleged victim may have been confusing him with Romero. Placed on leave after allegation received 8/30/2018 of sex abuse of a minor in the early 1980s. Bauer denied the allegations. The diocesan review board deemed allegations against Bauer credible in 11/2019. Case sent to the Vatican. Included on the diocese's list of accused.

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Cardinal Anthony Joseph Bevilacqua

Ordained: 1949
Status: Sued

Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

Auxiliary Bishop of Brooklyn 1980-83. Pittsburgh bishop 1983-87. Archbishop of Philadelphia 1987-2003. Named Cardinal 1991. Retired 2003. Died 1/31/12. Accused in a lawsuit filed in 9/18 by a woman who said he groped her chest behind a partition in the school lunchroom on a visit in the 1980s to St. Gabriel's in Whitehall. She also claimed abuse by Revs. Lawrence O'Connell and Edward Huff, when she was ages 5-13, 1978-1985, at St. Gabriel's.

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Br. Jerome Binder

Order: SM
Status: Accused

Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

Professed vows in 1957. Province of Cincinnati.Assigned to high schools in CIncinnati, Cleveland and Pittsburgh. In 2014, Bro. Bernard Hartman was facing trial in Australia on child abuse allegations, when one person came forward to allege abuse at North Catholic High School in Pittsburgh. The Pittsburgh diocese sought information on other possible victims, which yielded allegations against 7 other brothers, including Binder. Binder was at North Catholic 1961-66, 1975-76, and 1979-89. Died in 2/2000. Head of Marianists apologized in writing to diocese and students. Included on the U.S. Marianists list 6/24/20.

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Fr. Anthony G. Bosco

Ordained: 1952
Status: Accused

Died: 07/2/2013
Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

Ordained for the Diocese of Pittsburgh. Appointed Pittsburgh Auxiliary Bishop in 1970. Bishop of Greensburg PA 1987 until his 2004 retirement. Died in 2/2013. Accused in 2018 of inappropriately touching a nursing student in the late 1960s, while chaplain and instructor at Mercy Hospital School of Nursing in Pittsburgh. Included on the Pittsburgh diocese's list of those with allegations against them of child sexual abuse.

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Fr. John E. Brueckner

Donate Photo

Ordained: 1940
Status: Accused

Died: 10/2/1960
Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

First named publicly as accused in the PA Grand Jury report released 8/14/2018. A woman contacted the Greensburg diocese in 2016 to report that her husband told her in 2002 that a priest sexually abused him as a boy at St. Joseph's in New Kensington sometime between 1947 and 1951. He said the abuse happened in a the priest's car after a baseball game. Brueckner and a Rev. Stewart were priests of St. Joseph at the time. The Greensburg diocese wasn't established until 1951; New Kensington was part of the Pittsburgh diocese at the time of the alleged abuse. Brueckner died in 1960. Included on the diocese's list of accused.

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PA Grand Jury Report Profile 08.14.18

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Fr. Leo R. Burchianti

Ordained: 1964
Status: Settled

Died: 10/1/2013
Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

Publicly accused in the 8/14/2018 PA Grand Jury Report. Included on the Diocese's list of credibly accused. Diocese knew in 1967 of claims Burchianti abused at least eight young boys. May have been evaluated and treated at St. Luke and/or St. Michael's Institute at least three times in 1989, 1993 and 2012. Reportedly told boys he wanted to rape them. Admitted in 1980 to all allegations except those "concerning abuse." Leave of absence 1993. Settlement 3/18/1994. No further assignments granted. Early retirement in 10/1994. At St. John Vianney Manor 2/1995 until at least 2012. Permanently removed from ministry in 1/2003. Admitted in 2007 to past "sexual contact" with an eighth grade boy, and that he had a sexual relationship with the boy's mother. Diocese gave this accuser $24K for counseling in 2008. Burchianti admitted that he and Revs. Bob Castelucci and Rudy Smoley would take boys to the seminary pool and brag about them. Died in 2013. Claim settled in 4/2020 in the low five figures.

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Fr. Robert J. Castelucci

Ordained: 1964
Status: Settled

Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

Accused 1994 of abuse of boy ages 13 -17 in the 1970s. Psych eval at St. Luke's. Refused to undergo inpatient treatment. Granted Leave of Absence until removed from active ministry in 3/02. Suit filed in 2004. Plaintiff's brother also was allegedly abused by Castelucci at around age 8 in about 1978. Claims included in the Diocese's 9/07 $1.25M settlement with 32 plaintiffs alleging abuse by 17 priests. Accused in 1999 of abuse of a 17-year-old boy in Ohio. Placed on leave. A fourth accusation in 2/02, by a man claiming abuse beginning age 17, 1974-77. A fifth accuser in 10/02 alleged he was abused in the 1970s as a 12- or 13-year-old altar boy. In 5/11 a man said the priest sexually abused him at age 15 or 16, in the late 1970s, and that his friend was also a victim. Castelucci was named in the PA Grand Jury report released 8/14/18, and on the diocese's list of credibly accused. On the Youngstown diocese's list 1/29/18. Per Pittsburgh's list in 10/22, Castelucci is deceased.

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PA Grand Jury Report Profile 08.14.18

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Fr. Mauro J. Cautela

Ordained: 1974
Status: Settled

Died: 12/12/2005
Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

Placed on leave in 8/2005 after a young man told the diocese that Cautela sexually abused him when he was ages 12-19 from 1998 to 2005, under the guise of helping him to lift weights and massaging him. The man said this also happened to other boys. Cautela reportedly gave the boy alcohol, money and gifts and showed him gay porn. Allegedly used church funds for his "relationships" with the boys and porn. Named in the 8/14/2018 PA Grand Jury Report. Included on the diocese's list of credibly accused. At least three known alleged victims. Abuse said to have occurred on church property and on overnight trips. At least one reported incident of oral copulation. FBI agreed to file charges in 12/9/2005 related to incidents outside of PA; Cautela died of a heart attack 12/12/2005, so the investigation was closed. Civil suit filed 6/1/2006 by one person, settled in 11/2006 for $250K.

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PA Grand Jury Report Profile 08.14.18

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Fr. Robert J. Cedolia

Ordained: 1978
Status: Acquitted

Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

Placed on leave in 8/19 after an allegation was made to the IRCP that he sexually abused an 8-year-old boy in 1998 while pastor of Our Lady of Joy in Plum. His alleged victim said he was training for first communion when the priest abused him twice. Cedolia denied the allegations. He was criminally charged in 6/2021. IN 10/2022 the diocese's list shows his status as "faculties restricted/canonical case pending." Found not guilty at trial in 11/2022. The diocese announced on 12/20/2022 that Cedolia would be assigned to Replacement Ministry and reside at St. John Vianney Manor.

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Fr. Charles J. Chatt

Ordained: 1964
Status: Settled

Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

May have sexually abused "dozens" of boys, per one alleged victim. Placed on leave in 7/1992 after allegations he sexually abused a 7th or 8th grade boy in 1970 or 1971. Chatt admitted to sexual contact with the boy and said it ended when the boy was age 20; admitted to "sexual relationships" with "five other youngsters" in the 1970s. Abuse said to have included oral and anal sex. Numerous people reported to the diocese abuse by Chatt as boys. First victim said Chatt gave him gifts, showed man/boy porn. Said to have taken nude photos of boys, also of a 6-year-old girl, with whom he allegedly took showers. Treated at St. Michael's in St. Louis MO. Hired to work there and at Vianney Renewal Center after treatment until about 1999. Later became a social worker. Formally withdrew from ministry in 1/2003. One, possibly two civil suits filed in 2004. Claims included in the diocese's 9/2007 $1.25M settlement involving 32 plaintiffs alleging abuse by 17 priests. Named in the 8/14/2018 PA Grand Jury Report and included on the diocese's list of credibly accused.

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PA Grand Jury Report Profile 08.14.18

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Fr. John R. Chess

Donate Photo

Ordained: 1963
Status: Accused

Died: 10/20/2011
Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

Named publicly as accused by the diocese sometime after the release of the 2018 PA Grand Jury Report. Noted to have been removed from ministry in 1991. Died in 2011. (His obituary does not refer to him as "Rev." or "Fr."; it does note that he had served as a priest. It also mentions his son, who had a different last name.) Abuse reported to the DA's office in 2014.

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Fr. Anthony J. Cipolla

Ordained: 1972
Status: Settled

Died: 08/30/2016
Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

In 1978 a woman told police Cipolla abused her sons, ages 9 and 12. Charges dropped after harassment of mother and pressure by church. Reassigned. Accused in 1988 of abuse for over four years of a 13- to 17-year-old boy. Diocese said allegations unfounded. Accuser filed report with D.A. Cipolla was suspended and sent to St. Luke's for evaluation; he refused recommended treatment at St. John Vianney Center. Went to St. Michael's in NYC as an outpatient. Accuser filed suit in 10/1992; settled in 9/1993. Bishop Wuerl removed Cipolla's faculties in 9/1990. Cipolla appealed to Rome; Wuerl was ordered to reinstate him. Wuerl appealed; decision reversed in 1995. Cipolla continued to present as a priest against orders. He was laicized 9/19/2002. Continued to act as a priest. Died 8/30/2016 in Warren OH, where he had been living. On the Youngstown diocese's list 10/29/2018. Included on the Pittsburgh diocese's list of credibly accused. Two claims settled in 2020 in the low six figures.

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Fr. Bernard B. Costello

Ordained: 1963
Status: Accused

Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

Removed in 8/2018 after the diocese received an allegation that Costello sexually abused a minor in the mid-1960s. His last assignment was in 2011 at Mary, Mother of the Church in Charleroi. Allegations deemed credible by the diocesan review board in 11/2019. Case sent to the Vatican. Included on the diocese's list of accused.

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Fr. Paul R. Coyle

Ordained: 1937
Status: Accused

Died: 11/3/1991
Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

Monsignor. Named publicly as accused by the diocese on its list in 2019. Died in 1991. Coyle was accused after his death.

Documents:

Diocese of Pittsburgh List 2019

Fr. John David Crowley

Ordained: 1954
Status: Accused

Died: 02/25/2006
Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

First named publicly as accused in 8/14/2018 PA Grand Jury Report. Complaint to the diocese in 1992 from a mother that Crowley sexually abused her and her twin daughters; one was age 16 when allegedly abused. Kept in ministry. Sent for a week evaluation at St. Michael's Community in 9/1992; returned to same assignment. The women renewed their complaint in late 2001. In 8/2002 it was sent to the D.A.; Diocesan Review Board deemed the allegations credible in 12/2002. Crowley resigned in 1/2003. Bishop Wuerl allowed him to tell the parish he was retiring early, without mentioning the reason. Ministerial faculties withdrawn 5/30/2003. Vatican confirmed 6/9/2004 that Crowley was to remain in retirement with no public ministry. He died in 2006. Another allegation in 6/2008 that he abused a boy, age 11-12, in the 1970s.

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PA Grand Jury Report Profile 08.14.18

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Deacon Rosendo F. Dacal

Status: Convicted

Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

Ordained a permanent deacon in 2011. Arrested 4/10/2018 on charges related to sending and soliciting obscene images from an undercover police officer he thought was a 14-year-old boy. Suspended from assignments at All Saints parish in Etna and Allegheny County Jail. Taught in OH in the 1960s and 1970s at Steubenville Catholic Central High. Pleaded guilty in 10/2018. Sentenced in 1/2019 to two years' probation and 100 hours of community service. Ordered to register as a sex offender for 25 years. Included on the diocese's list of accused.

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Fr. Charles E. Demblowski

Ordained: 1943
Status: Accused

Died: 08/4/1989
Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

Ordained for the Diocese of Pittsburgh. Retired to WV in 1985, where he worked at a Middlebourne parish 1985-1986. Died 8/4/1989. Allegation received in 2004 of abuse of a minor at some point in the Pittsburgh diocese. Named publicly as accused on the Wheeling-Charleston diocese's list in late 2018. Included on the Pittsburgh diocese's list in 2019.

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Fr. Ferdinand B. Demsher

Ordained: 1946
Status: Accused

Died: 06/25/1983
Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

First named publicly as accused in 8/14/2018 PA Grand Jury Report. At least four alleged victims. A man told the diocese 3/18/2002 that Demsher sexually abused him at age 13-14 during 1975-1976 at St. Mary of the Assumption. He was working at the parish for Demsher doing odd jobs. In 3/2012 the diocese received a report that Demsher molested a boy in the late-1970s to early-1980s. In 2/2015 a man told the diocese that he was abused by Demsher as a 14-year-old Central Catholic High School freshman. A 2/1/2016 memo in Demsher's personnel file revealed that another person said Demsher fondled him when he was a 10- to 11-year-old altar boy at Resurrection parish. Another person alleged abuse by the priest as noted in a 5/2016 memo. He said the abuse occurred in the mid- to late-1960s. Demsher died in 1983. Included on the diocese's list of accused.

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PA Grand Jury Report Profile 08.14.18

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Fr. Myles Eric Diskin

Ordained: 1975
Status: Sued

Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

Head of diocesan Worship Office when put on leave in 4/2002. No explanation. Accused in three lawsuits, in 2004 and 2005, of abuse in the early- to mid-1970s. Withdrew from ministry in 3/2003. Claims included in the diocese's 9/07 $1.25M settlement with 32 plaintiffs alleging abuse by 17 priests. Named in the PA Grand Jury Report 8/14/2018 and on the diocese's list of credibly accused. In 2004 a man alleged abuse as a minor by Diskin in the mid-1970s at a Butler church. In 10/2002 a woman told the D.A. Diskin molested her as a child in the mid-1970s in Butler. In 6/2004 a man said he was abused when ages 12-13 by Diskin at St. Paul's in Butler 1976-1977. Accused in 11/2004 of abuse of a boy in the 1970s at St. Paul. Two men in 2/2009 reported mid-1970s abuse by Diskin when they were ages 11 and 14. In 1/2015 a man told the D.A. Diskin sexually abused him at ages 15-16 in Butler in 1976-1977. A woman reported in 1/2015 that Diskin sexually abused her as a minor in the mid-1970s. Diskin admitted in 2003 to a "sexual relationship" with a male minor for a few years while a priest in Butler.

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PA Grand Jury Report Profile 08.14.18

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Fr. John F. Doherty

Ordained: 1961
Status: Accused

Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

Parish priest, diocesan Scouting Director. Named publicly as credibly accused by the Pittsburgh diocese on its list in 2019. Noted to have been removed from ministry, reportedly in 1986. Allegations against Doherty were not reported to law enforcement until 2007.

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Fr. Jason R. Dolan

Status: Convicted

Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

Dolan, age 31, was placed on leave in 1/05 by the Byzantine Catholic Archeparchy of Pittsburgh. He later pleaded guilty to charges of possession of internet child pornography. Sentenced to 30 months prison and lifetime probation in 2/06. Released on probation in 7/08. On Sex Offender Registry.

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Fr. Jerome T. Doody

Ordained: 1942
Status: Indicted

Died: 03/7/1979
Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

Named publicly as accused by the Pittsburgh diocese on its list. Allegation(s) noted to have been reported after Doody's death. Per his obituary, Doody worked in the Diocese of El Paso TX for 15 years, until 1970. He died in 1979. Included on the Santa Fe archdiocese's list 5/19/2021, where he spent time at Via Coeli in Jemez Springs and St. Rita in Carrizozo.

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Fr. Richard J. Dorsch

Ordained: 1970
Status: Convicted

Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

Accused 1994 of abuse of a 13-year-old boy. On leave in 8/1994, sent to St. Luke's in MD for evaluation in 10/1994. Convicted 4/1995. Sentenced to 11 1/2 - 23 months jail; released on parole after one week in 6/1995. Returned to St. Luke's. A second man in 12/1994 reported abuse at age 10 in 1981, occurring many times until he was in 8th grade. Dorsch withdrew from ministry in 1996. Accused 2/2004 of abuse 1982-1985 of an All Saints in Etna altar boy. Victim died by suicide in 5/2010 after the Diocese quit paying for therapy. Family sued. Dorsch was named in at least two civil suits in 2004. Claims included in Diocese's 9/2007 $1.25M settlement as to 32 plaintiffs alleging abuse by 17 priests. Superior Court dismissed appeal in 9/2011. A man in 1/2012 reported abuse by Dorsch as a 7th-8th grader at All Saints. A fifth report in 7/2012 of abuse of a 12 to 14-year old St. Coleman in Turtle Creek altar boy; had been reported to Diocese in 1994 or 1995. A man in 6/2016 reported abuse at St. Coleman's at ages 10-12. Named in the 8/28/2018 PA Grand Jury Report and on the diocese's list of accused.

Fr. James Downs

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Ordained: 1970
Status: Accused

Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

Placed on leave in 12/18 after the diocese received an allegation that Downs sexually abused a minor in the early 1990s, when he was chaplain at the Youth Development Center in New Castle. Downs denied the allegation. Former pastor of parishes in Bessemer/Hillsville and Pulaski. Retired 7/18.

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KDKA TV 12.21.18

Fr. David F. Dzermejko

Ordained: 1974
Status: Convicted

Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

Removed in 6/2009 after an allegation that he sexually abused a boy between 1979-1984. Wife of the alleged victim said he told her before dying by suicide in 4/2009. Dzermejko denied the allegation. A second man in 6/2009 reported abuse 1979-1982 as a 5th to 7th grade altar boy. Review Board found the allegation credible in 8/2010. A third man in 1/2012 reported abuse in the late 1980s at ages 15-16. File sent to Rome. Indicted in 5/2013 on federal charge of child porn possession. Pleaded guilty 11/7/2013. Sentenced 4/25/2014 to 3 years in federal prison followed by 12 years probation. At sentencing, he denied sexual improprieties while a priest. Laicized 10/31/2015. Named in the 8/14/2018 PA Grand Jury report which states, "Dzermejko was reported to have had inappropriate contact with several young boys, conduct which included anal and oral sexual assaults of young minors." Included on the diocese's list of credibly accused.

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PA Grand Jury Report Profile 08.14.18

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Fr. Ralph J. Esposito

Ordained: 1967
Status: Settled

Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

Worked in Pittsburgh 1967-78 and in Little Rock AR 1978-81. Incardinated into the Little Rock diocese in 1981. Retired in 2002. Named in a 2004 suit against Pittsburgh by a man who alleged abuse as a child at Mother of Sorrows parish for three years, beginning in 1973. Claims included in Diocese's 9/07 $1.25M settlement with 32 plaintiffs alleging abuse by 17 priests.

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Fr. Joseph E. Feltz

Ordained: 1979
Status: Accused

Died: 09/26/2021
Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

Placed on leave in 11/2018 after an allegation in a lawsuit that he sexually abused a boy, age 9 or 10, in the mid-1980s. His accuser also alleged abuse by four other priests who were named in the 8/14/2018 PA Grand Jury report, accused of being part of a "ring of predatory priests." Feltz denied the allegation. Died 9/26/2021.

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Fr. John P. Fitzgerald

Ordained: 1974
Status: Accused

Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

Pastor of Our Lady of Peace in Conway when removed without privileges 7/31/2014 after allegations he sexually abused a boy in 1996. He denied the allegations. Criminal authorities in two counties investigated. Was chaplain at Pittsburgh International Airport for 15 years and residing at Holy Trinity parish until 2009 when he moved to Our Lady of Peace. Some of the alleged abuse occurred at the airport. Vatican ruled abuse "not proven." Fitzgerald allowed to retire in 3/2017. Living at St. John Vianney Manor. Named in the 8/14/2018 PA Grand Jury Report. Included on the diocese's list of accused.

Fr. Henry J. Donabedian

Ordained: 1937
Status: Accused

Died: 10/1/1966
Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

Named publicly as accused by the Diocese on its list in 2019. Parish priest. Chaplain 1949-1957 at the Pennsylvania Training Center (later called the Youth Development Center) at Canonsburg. Died in 1966.

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Fr. Joseph M. Ganter

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Ordained: 1922
Status: Accused

Died: 07/3/1965
Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

First named as accused in the 8/14/2018 PA Grand Jury Report. In 2008 an 80-year-old man told the diocese that Ganter sexually abused him when he was a 10-year-old altar boy at St. Athanasius in West View. He said he knew of six other boys who had "slept with" the priest. Ganter's personnel file showed an allegation in 1944 that Ganter had "immoral and corrupt relationships with at least three teenage boys." Per the report, Ganter asked boys to "commit a sex act" in his office. He would give them a few dollars and tell them never to tell. A Justice of the Peace investigated the allegations in 1945, at Ganter's request. The alleged victims denied "immoral relations" with the priest. Included on the diocese's list of accused.

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PA Grand Jury Report Profile 08.14.18

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Fr. John A. Geinzer

Ordained: 1967
Status: Accused

Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

First named publicly as accused in the PA Grand Jury report released 8/14/2018. (Named misspelled Genizer). Added to Baltimore list 9/2018. Complaint to diocese in 7/1995 that Geinzer fondled a 13-year-old boy in 1980. Kept in ministry as parish pastor. Geinzer denied the allegation in 2009, while discussing with bishop the possibility of being a cruise ship chaplain. Call to diocese in 5/2014 from a woman concerned about Geinzer's undue attention toward her 8-year-old son three years prior at Little Sisters of the Poor, where they were visiting her parents; she said more recently he showed too much attention to a 13-year-old boy at the facility. Remained a 'priest in good standing' per the diocese with documentation in 2016 stating "...he has never engaged in sexual behavior inconsistent with priestly celibacy, nor had he ever acted in an inappropriate manner with minors." On Baltimore archdiocese's list 4/24/2019. Included on the diocese's list of accused in 2019. Mentioned in the 4/5/2023 MD Attorney General's Report.

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PA Grand Jury Report Profile 08.14.18

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Fr. Cornelius E. Gildea

Ordained: 1956
Status: Accused

Died: 05/12/1994
Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

Named publicly as accused by the Diocese on its list in 2022. Allegation(s) received after his death. Died 5/12/1994.

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Diocese of Pittsburgh List 10.02.22

Fr. Richard Ginder

Ordained: 1940
Status: Convicted

Died: 06/7/1984
Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

Full name Charles Richard Ginder. Worked as a diocesan censor and writer. Received 10 years' probation in 1969 for child pornograpy. Several sick leaves. Faculties removed in 1976 after Ginder published a book considered controversial. Convicted of abuse of two youths in 1978; sentenced to up to four years in prison. Died 6/7/1984. Named in a 2004 civil suit. Claims included in diocese's 9/2007 $1.25 M settlement with 32 plaintiffs alleging abuse by 17 priests. At least two more men later came forward to allege abuse by Ginder as boys. Name included 8/14/2018 PA Grand Jury Report. Included on the diocese's list of credibly accused.

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PA Grand Jury Report Profile 08.14.18

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Fr. Joseph C. Girdis

Ordained: 1943
Status: Sued

Died: 01/29/2003
Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

Accused in a lawsuit filed in 8/2019 of repeatedly sexually assaulting a 12-year-old boy, who resided at the Holy Family Institute in Emsworth, in the 1970s. His accuser made the same accusations against Rev. Larry Smith in the suit. Girdis died in 2003.

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WPIX TV 08.19.19

Fr. James G. Graham

Ordained: 1966
Status: Accused

Died: 03/6/2015
Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

In 4/2012, the Diocese received an allegation of abuse of a 9-year-old boy by Graham in late the 1960s. The accusation was made by the female partner of the alleged victim, who had recently died of a drug overdose. Graham, who had been scheduled to retire on 4/30/2012, was immediately removed from his assignment at St. Lawrence O'Toole, and the Diocese investigated. The sister of another alleged victim told the Diocesan Review Board in 2012 that Graham molested her brother, who died at age 15 in 2002. Another man told the diocese in 2012 that when he was age 16, Graham sexually abused him. All allegations were deemed credible and Graham was permanently removed from ministry. He died in 2015. Named in 8/14/2018 PA Grand Jury Report. Included on the Diocese's list of credibly accused.

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PA Grand Jury Report Profile 08.14.18

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Br. Bernard Joseph Hartman

Order: SM
Status: Convicted

Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

Joined Marianists in 1958; worked many years in Australia. Taught 1986-97 at North Catholic High in Pittsburgh. US Marianists learned of Australian allegations in 1997; removed from school. Sent to treatment; reassigned to internal ministry under safety plan. In 1999 accused by woman in Australia of sexual abuse when she was age 8. He apologized to her by letter. In US in 2008 when he celebrated his 50th anniversary. Lived in Dayton OH area in 2009. New accusers in Australia. Returned to Australia 9/13, convicted of sustained sexual abuse, including penetration, of a boy and 2 girls as young as age 8. Two more allegations at N. Catholic. Released from jail in Australia 7/23/17 after 3 years, 1 year suspended. To return to US. Per Marianists he was to live in a non-Marianist facility with direct supervision of men with "significant personal issues and/or legal convictions" for the rest of his life, with no external ministry. On Marianists list 6/24/20. On Covington diocese's list 7/31/20.

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Diocese of Covington List 07.31.20

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Br. William Charles Hildebrand

Order: SM
Status: Accused

Died: 10/16/1979
Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

Worked in OH, KY, PA, HI, CA. Accused in 2014 of abusing students at North Catholic High School in Pittsburgh, where he worked 1951-61. One person alleged abuse at the school by Hildebrand when in 2014 fellow Marianist, Br. Bernard Hartman, was facing trial in Australia on child abuse charges. The Pittsburgh diocese sought information on other possible victims, and four people came forward with allegations against Hildebrand. Died 10/16/79. Diocese says it knew nothing of the allegations until 2014. Head of Marianists apologized in writing to Diocese and students. Named in 8/14/18 PA Grand Jury Report. Included on the Marianists list of accused 6/24/20. On the Covington diocese's 7/31/20 list.

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Fr. John Hoehl

Ordained: 1963
Status: Sued

Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

Placed on leave in 1986 due to allegations. Sent to Southdown in Canada for treatment. Reassigned. Allegedly abused boys, ages 9-18, including sodomy during the 1960s-1990s. One known alleged victim later died by suicide. Sexual assault alleged also of a female high schooler. Left active priesthood in 1988. Civil suits filed by 7-8 men in 2001 and 2003-2004 alleging abuse by Hoehl in the early 1980s. Laicized in 6/2004. Per a 2002 article, he was children's therapist in WV. Board of Counselors investigated and found allegations credible. Surrendered his license in 3/2007. In 10/2007 32 alleged victims settled with the diocese. Named in the 8/14/2018 PA Grand Jury Report. Included on the diocese's list of credibly accused. New lawsuit filed in 8/2018. Suit filed in 10/2018 by a man alleging rape ages 14-17 by Hoehl when he was headmaster and counselor at Quigley Catholic High in Baden. Suit filed in 11/2018.

Fr. John R. Huber

Donate Photo

Ordained: 1968
Status: Accused

Died: 12/15/1998
Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

First named publicly as accused in the 8/14/2018 PA Grand Jury Report (middle initial J. in the report). Included on the diocese's list of accused. In 2009 a man told the diocese that he was sexually abused by Huber as a boy. He said he had told Huber during confession that he was possibly attracted to men and that Huber told him he should attend 1:1 counseling with him. The man said that during some of the sessions Huber performed oral sex on him then gave him $20.00. The same man said that a Fr. Adams molested him in fourth or fifth grade. Huber died in 1998.

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PA Grand Jury Report Profile 08.14.18

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Fr. Edward G. Huff

Ordained: 1973
Status: Convicted

Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

In 1992 two families in two days complained to the Diocese that Huff had molested their sons. After treatment Huff was made a hospital chaplain in late 1992. Within two months several more families complained of abuse 1987-1991. He was sent back to treatment and resigned from the priesthood seven weeks later. Pleaded guilty in 1994 to charges of improperly touching and providing alcohol to several youths. Sentenced to 15 months to 5 years in prison as result of a plea bargain. Other charges dropped. Allegation in 5/2008 of molestation of an altar boy in the early 1980s. Also, files show that on 6/14/2015 Huff showed up at an altar server training at a New Castle parish and asked a teen boy if he wanted to go to a Pittsburgh Pirates game with him. Named in 8/14/2018 PA Grand Jury Report. Included on the diocese's list of credibly accused. Suit filed in 9/2018. Another filed in 11/2018.

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PA Grand Jury Report Profile 08.14.18

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Fr. Edward G. Joyce

Ordained: 1940
Status: Sued

Died: 01/11/1969
Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

Monsignor. First named publicly as accused in 8/14/2018 PA Grand Jury Report. Died in 1969. Allegation in 12/2002 to the D.A. that Joyce inappropriately touched a boy 1966-1968, with naked massages and heavy touching. Another priest was said to have walked in on them and Joyce was reassigned to an all-girls school. The alleged victim filed suit against Bishop Zubik and Cardinal Wuerl in 10/2018. Joyce's name is included on the diocese's list of accused.

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PA Grand Jury Report Profile 08.14.18

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Fr. Marvin Justi

Order: OFM Cap
Ordained: 1958
Status: Accused

Died: 02/11/2009
Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

Died 2/11/2009. First named publicly as accused in 8/14/2018 PA Grand Jury Report. Worked in Kansas City-St. Joseph diocese in the 1970s. In 2016 the Pittsburgh diocese received a report from a woman that when she was age 17 in 1969 and a Sewickley Valley Hospital nursing students, Justi was a patient who became aroused as she bathed him and insisted she keep washing his genitals. She said he then would send her suggestive letters and notes. Her mother reported Justi to his superior. The woman also said that in 1982 when she worked in physical therapy in Ambridge, Justi was a patient who undressed and refused to dress when she tried to start the session. In 1985 he reportedly showed up at her house, used the restroom, then entered the living room naked, his genitals freshly shaven. On the Kansas City KS archdiocese's list in 1/25/2019.

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PA Grand Jury Report Profile 08.14.18

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Fr. Bernard J. Kaczmarczyk

Ordained: 1957
Status: Accused

Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

Named as accused in 8/14/2018 PA Grand Jury Report. Included on the diocese's list of credibly accused. Removed from ministry in 1992 and went on leave of absence. Faculties were withdrawn in 2/1994 after the diocese received a report that Kaczmarczyk had sexually abused three boys, ages 17, 14 and 11. The boys were brothers and family friends of Kaczmarczyk. The eldest was "involved" with the priest from the age of 7. When he was 10 he started staying overnight in the rectory. At one point Kaczmarczyk had the boy make a "Consecration of the Mystical Rose" and wear a rosary ring on his left hand. The abuse occurred in the rectory of Holy Name of Mary in Donora PA and at Kaczmarczyk's home in FL. Convicted in the 1990s, along with another priest, of mail fraud for operating a phony foundation since 1987 to raise money to build a shrine. Sentenced in 1/1996 to 27 months in prison. Kaczmarczyk spent $495,000 on a FL home and other luxuries. He also took $75,000 worth of items from Holy Name Parish before it closed in 10/1992. The other priest stated at trial that Kaczmarczyk began a sexual "relationship" when he was age 15 in the 1970s, which continued for years. The younger priest said he allowed it to go on because his family was in need and Kaczmarczyk would give them money.

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PA Grand Jury Report Profile 08.14.18

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Fr. Joseph D. Karabin

Ordained: 1974
Status: Settled

Died: 04/15/2016
Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

Allegation in 3/1980 of recent abuse. Sent to House of Affirmation for treatment. Placed on leave in 1985 due to report of recent abuse of an 8th grade boy. Sent to St. Luke Institute for evaluation and treatment. Reassigned to non-parish ministries. A third report in 10/1991 of past abuse of a 13- to 14-year-old altar boy. Karabin admitted to abusing two other boys. Accused in 1997 of abuse of a college youth. Formally withdrew from ministry in 2002. Accused in a 4/2004 suit of molesting a youth in 1983 and 1984. Accused by two others in a 9/2004 suit. Claims included in the diocese's 9/2007 $1.25M settlement with 32 plaintiffs alleging abuse by 17 priests. Died in 2016. Named in the 8/14/2018 PA Grand Jury Report. Included on the diocese's list of credibly accused.

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PA Grand Jury Report Profile 08.14.18

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Fr. Matthew F. Kebe

Status: Accused

Died: 09/19/1969
Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

Ordained in 1911. Born in Austria, educated in Slovenia, ordained for the Diocese of Pittsburgh after attending seminary in Latrobe PA. Pastor of Sacred Heart in McKeesport 1916-1934 then St. Mary's 1934-1966. Died 9/19/1969. Named publicly as accused by the diocese on its list in 10/2022.

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Br. John J. Keegan

Order: SM
Status: Accused

Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

Professed vows in 1945. Worked in Dayton OH, Hamilton OH, Pittsburgh PA and Brooklyn NY. Left the Order in 1962. Died in 2007. In 4/2014 a man alleged abuse as a minor by Keegan at North Catholic High School in Pittsburgh 1957-1961. After the Pittsburgh diocese sought information on other possible victims, two brothers came forward. Diocese said it knew nothing of the allegations until 2014. Head of the Marianists apologized in writing to the diocese and students. By 5/2014 six men had reported sexual abuse by Keegan as minors at North Catholic during 1956-1961. Included on the Marianists' 6/24/2020 list of accused.

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Br. William J. Kiefer

Order: SM
Status: Accused

Died: 03/7/2012
Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

In 6/2014 the diocese received a report that at least one boy was abused by Kiefer at Cardinal Wuerl North Catholic High School (formerly North Catholic High) between 1956-1962. Kiefer married in 1970 and died in 2012 in Dayton OH. In 2014 he is one of 9 Marianists accused of abuse at Cardinal Wuerl since initial announcement of abuse by Br. Bernard Hoffman.

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Br. James H. Kline

Order: SM
Status: Accused

Died: 12/10/1997
Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

In 2014 fellow Marianist Bro. Bernard Hartman was facing trial in Australia on child abuse allegations when a man came forward to allege abuse while he was a student at North Catholic High School in Pittsburgh. After the Pittsburgh Diocese sought information on other possible victims, allegations were made against seven other brothers, including at least one against Kline. Kline was at North Catholic 1940-1947. Also worked in OH, DC and Puerto Rico. He died in 12/1997. Head of Marianist Order apologized in writing to the diocese and students.

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Fr. Francis S. Koryak

Ordained: 1961
Status: Accused

Died: 02/22/1991
Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

Named publicly as accused by the diocese on its list in 2019. Koryak died in 1990.

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Fr. Henry R. Krawczyk

Ordained: 1978
Status: Accused

Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

Reprimanded in 1986 for providing alcohol and marijuana to minors and for making sexual advances toward minors and an an 18-year-old male. Reprimanded in 1992 for giving beer to a minor. Diocese found the complaints unsubstantiated but credible. In 2003 an inebriated 19-year-old University of Pittsburgh football player fell to his death from the attic of Krawczyk's church. Krawczyk was charged with providing alcohol. Pleaded guilty to involuntary manslaughter in 9/2006; received 7 years probation. Civil suit settled in 1/2006. In 11/2006 the diocese received a report from two brothers that Krawczyk had sexually abused their younger brother after plying him with marijuana and alcohol. The alleged victim died by suicide in 8/2006. Krawczyk was named in the 8/14/1208 PA Grand Jury Report and included on the diocese's list of credibly accused.

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PA Grand Jury Report Profile 08.14.18

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Fr. Edward L. Kryston

Ordained: 1973
Status: Accused

Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

First named publicly as accused in 8/14/2018 PA Grand Jury Report. Included on the diocese's list of credibly accused in 2019 (with an incorrect ordination year.)The diocese was aware as early as 5/1984 of concerns that Kryston was inappropriately focused on and involved with girls, grade-school and high school aged, at St. Pius X parish, where he was assigned. Transferred in 7/2004 to another parish where similar complaints continued, including that he was "drinking and fooling around with girls, arranging a dinner for two in the rector with an eighth grade girl, and asking a CCD class how they would feel if they were naked answering the telephone." He was also reportedly touching girls' buttocks at school dances. In 1/1996 he was sent to St. Luke's Institute for evaluation, then residential treatment. He was returned to parish ministry in 9/1996. Placed on leave 2/28/2002 and sent to St. John Vianney Manor to live, near a high school. Still there in 11/2011.

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PA Grand Jury Report Profile 08.14.18

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Fr. Anujit Kumar

Donate Photo

Ordained: 2002
Status: Accused

Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

Missionary priest from India. In 9/2008 a female altar server reported that Kumar kissed her on the lips several times, using his tongue, then asked for her phone number and gave her is business card and a gift. Other altar servers witnessed the incident. He admitted to the behavior and said he was trying to recruit her for the convent. Victim and her family did not want to prosecute.

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PA Grand Jury Report Profile 08.14.18

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PA Grand Jury Report Profile 08.14.18

Fr. George A. Kurutz

Donate Photo

Ordained: 1944
Status: Accused

Died: 04/4/1977
Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

First named publicly as accused in 8/14/2018 PA Grand Jury Report. Included on the diocese's list of accused. Died in 1977. In 1996 a 47-year-old woman told the diocese that Kurutz molested her and her sister in the late 1950s and early 1960s. Further, she said her sister walked in on their mother and Kurutz having sex.

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PA Grand Jury Report Profile 08.14.18

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Fr. Hugh J. Lang

Ordained: 1956
Status: Charges dropped

Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

Retired in 2006. Former pastor of St. Therese of Lisieux in Munhall and superintendent of diocesan schools. Placed on leave after allegation to the diocese 8/27/2018 that he sexually abused an 11-year-old altar boy in 2001. His accuser said Lang took him alone to a room in the church basement, told him he was a troublemaker and to take off his clothes, then performed sex acts on him. He said the priest then took a photo of him and said he would show it to others if he didn't behave. Lang denied the allegation. Arrested 1/25/2019. Found guilty at trial 11/2019. Sentenced in 2/2020 to 9 to 23 months and 29 days in prison. On 3/5/2020 the sentence was vacated. Lang's conviction was overturned 3/9/2020 when a new judge determined that Lang's due process had been violated. He was to get a new trial. The D.A. filed an appeal. Charges dropped in 8/2022, in the "best interest of the alleged victim." In 10/2022 the diocese's list shows Lang's status as "faculties restricted/canonical case pending."

Fr. George T. Leech

Donate Photo

Ordained: 1956
Status: Sued

Died: 05/7/2006
Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

First named publicly as accused in a lawsuit, per news in 11/2018. Included in 10/2022 on the diocese's list of accused. Died in 2006.

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Fr. Richard M. Lelonis

Ordained: 1971
Status: Accused

Died: 10/20/2019
Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

Diocese announced in 11/2018 that Lelonis was suspended from ministry 9/12/2018 after two men told the diocese he abused them as children in the early 1970s to about 1980. Allegations deemed credible, but not yet substantiated. Lelonis denied them. Lelonis was reportedly included in the 8/14/2018 PA Grand Jury report, his name redacted. The alleged victim in the GJ report said Lelonis abused him for years and threatened to kill him if he told. It also said Lelonis admitted to "an attraction to minors." Sent to St. Luke's for evaluation, returned to ministry. Lelonis' ministry was restricted in 2002. He was assigned to the diocesan Tribunal from 1995. Died 10/20/2019. Included on the diocese's list of accused.

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Fr. Albert J. Leonard

Ordained: 1980
Status: Accused

Died: 10/1/2002
Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

First named publicly as accused in the 8/14/2018 PA Grand Jury Report. Complaints to the diocese in 1989 and 1993 about Leonard's behavior toward children, including parents who were worried about the priest's relationship with their 14-year-old son and concerns that he swam naked with boys. Took leave of absence in 11/1993. Went on to work as a licensed counselor for a short time at a residential treatment facility for children, then at an agency for crime victims. Died 10/1/2002. Included on the diocese's list of credibly accused.

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PA Grand Jury Report Profile 08.14.18

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Fr. Casimir F. Lewandowski

Ordained: 1945
Status: Accused

Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

First named publicly as accused in the 8/14/2018 PA Grand Jury Report. Died in 1978. In 2/2016 a 64-year-old woman told the diocese that Lewandowski sexually abused her when she was about age 12 and in sixth grade. He was assigned at the time to Madonna of Czestochowa parish. Included on the diocese's list of accused.

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PA Grand Jury Report Profile 08.14.18

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Fr. John J. Lukasik

Ordained: 1953
Status: Sued

Died: 05/3/1981
Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

Accused in a civil suit in filed in 1/2005 of fondling an 11-year-old boy after plying him with alcohol, in the early- to mid- 1960s at St. Mary Czestochowa Church in McKeesport. Lukasik died in 1981. Included on the diocese's list of accused.

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Fr. Edward C. Maliszewski

Ordained: 1945
Status: Sued

Died: 11/3/2006
Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

Accused in a lawsuit filed in 4/2020 of sexually abusing a boy, beginning in the early 1960s when the boy was age 7 or 8 and continuing through age 15. Maliszewski was assigned 1955-1964 to St. Coleman's in Turtle Creek, where the boy was a student. The boy was a resident of the New Castle Youth Development Center (NYCD) at age 15. The suit also claims the boy was abused by two other unknown priests, one at NCYD and the other during a stay 1970-1971 at Woodville State Hospital. Maliszewski died in 2006. Name included in 2022 on the diocese's list of accused.

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Fr. John P. Maloney

Ordained: 1964
Status: Accused

Died: 11/22/2007
Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

First named publicly as accused in the 8/14/2018 PA Grand Jury Report. Included on the diocese's list of credibly accused. Report to the diocese in 2004 that Maloney sexually abused a boy in the early 1970s. The alleged victim had a newspaper route as an 8th grader which included delivering to St. Philip's rectory. He said Maloney would have him come into the rectory and photograph him in his underwear. Maloney was placed on leave in 1/2004 and his faculties were removed in 9/2004. He died in 2007. Maloney's accuser also alleged that he was abused in 1973 by Rev. Dom McGee.

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PA Grand Jury Report Profile 08.14.18

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Br. Julius F. May

Order: SM
Status: Accused

Died: 07/8/1970
Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

Allegations of abuse at North Catholic in Pittsburgh were made in 2014 against 7 Marianist brothers, including May, who was at the school 1960-1970. Two former students alleged he abused them. Head of Marianist Order apologized in writing to Diocese and students. Born in 1898. Entered Order in 1924, made final vows in 1928. Taught and was principal of a number of high schools, including in Dayton OH, Hamilton OH, Chester PA, Brooklyn NY, Philadelphia PA, Beacon NY, Covington KY, Pittsburgh PA. Died 7/8/1970. Included on the Order's list 6/24/2020.

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PA Grand Jury Report Profile 08.14.18

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Fr. William J. McCashin

Status: Sued

Died: 02/7/1967
Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

Ordained in 1915. Died in 1967. Accused in a 2004 civil suit of molesting an 8-year-old boy at St. Philip's in Crafton in 1965. Plaintiff came forward to the Diocese in 2002. Claims included in Diocese's 9/2007 $1.25M settlement with 32 plaintiffs alleging abuse by 17 priests. Included on the diocese's list of accused.

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Fr. Dominic E. McGee

Order: OFM Conv
Ordained: 1967
Status: Accused

Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

First named publicly as accused in 8/14/2018 PA Grand Jury Report. In 2004 a man told the Pittsburgh diocese that McGee molested him and his younger brother in the early to mid-1970s when the man was a student at Canevin High School.

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PA Grand Jury Report Profile 08.14.18

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Fr. Thomas J. McKenna

Ordained: 1972
Status: Settled

Died: 04/4/2021
Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

First named publicly as accused in 8/14/2018 PA Grand Jury Report. Included in 2019 on the diocese's list of credibly accused. Personnel file shows allegations of sexual abuse of at least four people: allegations in 1992 of abuse of two teen brothers in the 1970s; a 1996 memo that he was confronted with several allegations; a 1999 lawsuit by an inmate of State Correctional Institution at Pittsburgh with claim McKenna sexually assaulted him there; a 5/2002 report from a woman who said McKenna sexually abused her son in 1975. Withdrew from active ministry in 2004. Treated at St. Luke Institute, diagnosed with ephebophilia. Suit filed in 12/2019 claiming abuse of altar boy, age 11 or 12, 1973-1975. Sued for abuse of a boy, ages 13-15, in 1979-1981; settled in 5/2020 in the low five figures. McKenna died 4/4/2021.

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Fr. Donald W. Mcllvane

Ordained: 1952
Status: Accused

Died: 02/16/2014
Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

First named publicly as accused in the 8/14/2018 PA Grand Jury Report. Died in 2014. In 7/2008 a 43-year-old man told the diocese that when he was in third grade in 1973, McIlvane orally copulated him, then gave him $5.00. He said the behavior continued at least 40 times per year 1973-1977. Diocesan Review Board determined the allegation could not be substantiated. The diocese gave the man $5,000., which was not meant to be a settlement related to the claim. Included on the diocese's list of accused.

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PA Grand Jury Report Profile 08.14.18

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Fr. Albert McMahon

Order: OFM
Ordained: 1960
Status: Accused

Died: 02/8/2018
Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

First named publicly as accused in the 8/14/2018 PA Grand Jury Report. In 4/2004 a 54-year-old woman told the diocese that when she was about 11 years old "Fr. Albert" molested her on a few occasions at St. Pamphilus. The diocese informed the Provincial of the Franciscan's Province of the Immaculate Conception in NY. In 1/2014 a 63-year-old man reported to the diocese that when he was an 11- to 14-year-old altar boy at St. Pamphilus in the mid-1960s McMahon would invite the altar boys, one at a time, to his friary room to wrestle. He said McMahon would get on top of him, always with an erection. McMahon Died 2/8/2018 in Albany, NY at age 83.

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PA Grand Jury Report Profile 08.14.18

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Fr. John H. McMahon

Ordained: 1940
Status: Accused

Died: 04/6/1993
Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

Named publicly as accused in the 8/14/2018 PA Grand Jury Report. Included on the diocese's list of accused. In 2004 a woman reported to the diocese that between 1969-1976, when she was ages 7-15, McMahon and another priest molested her. She was a student at Resurrection Parish school, where McMahon was pastor. She said the abuse occurred in the rectory, where the two priests lived, and that sometimes other children were there and were encouraged by McMahon to touch each other. The woman said she also remembered seeing photos of naked boys and girls on McMahon's desk. He died in 1993.

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PA Grand Jury Report Profile 08.14.18

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Br. Francis Meder

Order: SM
Status: Accused

Died: 06/10/1976
Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

Professed vows in 1911. Worked in OH, NY, PA, CA, HI. Died 6/10/1976. Four individuals came forward in 2014 to allege abuse by Meder, who was at North Catholic High School in Pittsburgh 1952-1967 and again 1970-1976. Diocese said it knew nothing of the allegations until 2014. Head of Marianist Order apologized in writing to Diocese and students. Named in 8/14/2018 PA Grand Jury Report. It showed multiple allegations of abuse by Meder of boys and girls, ages 8-11, in the 1950s and 1960s. Included on Marianists' list of accused 6/24/2020.

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PA Grand Jury Report Profile 08.14.18

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Fr. Robert L. Mellott

Ordained: 1963
Status: Accused

Died: 05/16/2008
Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

Named publicly as credibly accused by the diocese on its list in 2019. Noted to have been removed from ministry in 2005. Died in 2008.

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Fr. Arthur R. Merrell

Donate Photo

Ordained: 1970
Status: Convicted

Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

First named publicly as accused in the 8/14/2018 PA Grand Jury Report. Included on the diocese's list of credibly accused in 2019. Merrell's diocesan file showed an allegation in 1997 that he had "inappropriately touched" a boy younger than 15. He admitted to his behavior and withdrew from ministry in 2/1998. A note written in 2/1998 told of a sexual relationship Merrell had with a mentally ill man, which Merrell acknowledged to be true. Per a 7/2014 memo Merrill "minimized his inappropriate actions with minors." He also asked the diocese for and was given money. Became licensed counselor in 2003. Charged in 2011 with fondling a 14-year-old boy, pleaded no contest. License revoked. Named in a 6/2020 lawsuit.

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PA Grand Jury Report Profile 08.14.18

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Deacon John C. Miller

Donate Photo

Status: Accused

Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

Deacon at St. Teresa of Avila in Ross. The diocese acknowledged publicly in 7/2019 that Miller was suspended in 2018 after an allegation of "inappropriate contact of a minor" in 2016. He allegedly kissed a minor girl. Investigation delayed due to Miller's "grave health issues." Miller denied the allegation. Case sent to the Vatican for review. Included on the diocese's list of accused.

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Fr. Cosmas Minster

Order: OSB
Ordained: 1933
Status: Accused

Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

Named publicly as credibly accused in 8/2018 by the St. Vincent Archabbey Benedictines in Latrobe PA. The Archabbey received a report in 2002 that Minster sexually abused a child in 1942, while assigned to a weekend mission at a Mt. Pleasant parish. Minster died in 1985.

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Trib Live 08.16.18

Br. Ralph A. Mravintz

Order: SM
Status: Convicted

Died: 05/23/2006
Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

Professed vows as a Marianist brother in 1944. Worked in OH, NY, FL, TN and PA. Teacher at Pittsburgh's North Catholic High School. Accused of molesting a male student, age 15, 10/1984-2/1985. Mravintz would hug, say "I love you" to and fondle the boy, who had sought help with studies. Mravintz faced charges of indecent assault and corrupting a minor, but was not removed from his classroom. He pled no contest to disorderly conduct because boy did not want to testify. Diocese denied responsibility because Mravintz was a member of a religious order. Died in 5/2006. In 5/2014, the Archdiocese denied any knowledge of the 1985 charges until notified by an alumnus in response to a request for complaints regarding Br. Hartman, another abusive priest. The Marianists' U.S. Provincial apologized in writing to the Diocese and students. On Order's list of accused 6/24/2020.

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Fr. Joseph A. Mueller

Ordained: 1983
Status: Accused

Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

First named accused publicly in 8/14/2018 PA Grand Jury Report. Ordained after a career as an engineer. In 4/1986 a young man reported to the pastor of St. Bernard in Mt. Lebanon that Mueller molested him when the young man was age 13-14. Mueller was sent to St. Luke's Institute. Faculties withdrawn 11/1988. In 9/1987 a mother complained to the diocese that Mueller paid "inappropriate attention" to her 16-year-old son. Mueller was on administrative leave 11/1988-2/2003, when he withdrew from active ministry. He died in 2010. Included on the diocese's list of credibly accused. Twin brother of accused priest Richard Mueller.

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PA Grand Jury Report Profile 08.14.18

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Fr. Richard J. Mueller

Ordained: 1966
Status: Accused

Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

Named publicly as credibly accused by the diocese on its list in 2019. Noted to have been removed from ministry in 2007. Twin brother of accused priest Joseph Mueller.

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Diocese of Pittsburgh List 2019

Fr. Anthony J. Muszynski

Status: Accused

Died: 05/21/1962
Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

Ordained in 1917. Pastor for 42 years of St. Ignatius in Carnegie. Died in 1962. Named publicly as accused by the diocese on its list in 2022. Allegation(s) noted to have been received after his death.

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Fr. Kenneth E. Myers

Ordained: 1980
Status: Accused

Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

Myers' name was quietly added in 2019 to the diocese's list of credibly accused. In 2021 the credible claim was categorized as "credible and substantiated," which the diocese notes to mean that "the allegation was supported by either an admission by the individual to the abuse or by an examination of the evidence through a comprehensive canonical or criminal investigation." Myers was removed from active ministry. In 1/2022, via a letter in the parish bulletin, Bishop Zubik informed the Latin Mass Community at Most Precious Blood of Jesus Parish that the allegations against Myers, who had been their chaplain, were credible and substantiated and that he would remain removed from ministry. This was in response to inquiries about Myers from parishioners.

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Fr. John J. O’Brien

Ordained: 1975
Status: Accused

Died: 12/31/2004
Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

Formerly a Christian Brother, " Bro. Firmilian John." Ordained to the priesthood in 1975. The Pittsburgh diocese announced in 2/2019 that it had received an allegation that O'Brien abused a boy when he taught at Central Catholic High in the mid-1960s. He died in 2004. Name included on the diocese's list of accused.

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Fr. Lawrence A. O’Connell

Ordained: 1930
Status: Settled

Died: 12/22/1986
Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

A woman filed suit in 4/2004 alleging she was molested by O'Connell at ages 12-15 at St. Gabriel's in Whitehall, where O'Connell was pastor 1952-1983. O'Connell resigned in 1983 and died in 1986. Three more women filed suit later in 2004, alleging he sexually abused them as children. Claims included in Diocese's 9/2007 $1.25M settlement with 32 plaintiffs alleging abuse by 17 priests. Named in the 8/14/2018 PA Grand Jury Report. One woman alleged abuse at age 7. New suit filed 9/2018. Another filed in 11/2018. Named included on the diocese's list of accused. New suit in 6/2020.

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PA Grand Jury Report Profile 08.14.18

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Fr. Thomas M. O’Donnell

Ordained: 1960
Status: Accused

Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

First named publicly as accused in 8/14/2018 PA Grand Jury Report. Living in the Fort Myers area of FL in 8/2018. Complaints in 1988 from parents about O'Donnell's behavior with their sons, about age 12. Said to make the boys shower after basketball games, then weigh the boys while they were naked. Had been ordered by Diocese in 6/1987 to stay out of the boys' locker rooms. Appointed by Bishop Wuerl in 6/2000 to the Marriage Tribunal, and relieved of his parish assignment. Complaints from parents about O'Donnell continued through mid-3/2002. Assigned by Wuerl in 11/2005 to a parish; its school principal soon reported complaints from families about O'Donnell; one man said he reported concerns in 1981 but nothing done. Alleged in a 1/1/2019 lawsuit to have taken a 13-year-old boy in 1976 to the Super Bowl in Miami, where he sexually abused the boy repeatedly. His accuser said the abuse started when he was age 12 and included anal and oral intercourse. Included on the diocese's list of accused in 2019, showing faculties were restricted. Per the list in 10/2022 he was removed from ministry.

Assignments:

PA Grand Jury Report Profile 08.14.18

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Fr. William P. O’Malley III

Donate Photo

Ordained: 1970
Status: Sued

Died: 04/27/2008
Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

First named publicly as accused in the 8/14/2018 PA Grand Jury Report. Allegedly sexually abused multiple minors in the 1980s and 1990s. Admitted to a sexual interest in adolescents; received treatment for "ephebophilia." Removed from active ministry in 5/2003. Died in 2008. Lawsuit filed in 9/2018. Another filed in 11/2018, claiming abuse of two minors at St. Canice and St. Francis de Sales parishes. Included on the diocese's list of credibly accused. New lawsuit filed in 6/2020.

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Fr. William R. O’Brien

Ordained: 1942
Status: Accused

Died: 11/13/1992
Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

Named publicly as accused by the Pittsburgh diocese on its list in 2019. Died in 1992.

Sources:

Diocese of Pittsburgh List 2019

Fr. Ernest C. Paone

Ordained: 1957
Status: Accused

Died: 05/10/2012
Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

First named publicly as accused in 8/14/2018 PA Grand Jury Report. Concerns raised while in seminary. In 1962 St. Monica's pastor told Bishop Wright that he prevented Paone's arrest for "molesting young boys...and illegal use of guns with even younger parishioners." In 1964 D.A. told Bishop Leonard he "halted all investigations [of Paone] involving young boys." Leave of absence 1966. Moved to L.A. archdiocese, then San Diego diocese. Remained Pittsburgh priest "in good standing," allowed to minster in CA, and to work as a public school teacher. New report 1994 of abuse of PA boy in 1960s. Sent to St. Luke's for evaluation. Kept in ministry until faculties removed 5/2002. Another allegation 6/2002 of abuse in 1962-1963 of PA boy. Resigned from ministry 2/2003. A 2/2006 memo showed Paone was hearing confessions for confirmation-age children in San Diego. Died 5/10/2012. Suit announced in 11/2018. On L.A. list updated 12/6/2018. Included on the Pittsburgh diocese's list of credibly accused. On Las Vegas diocese's list 4/12/2019.

Assignments:

PA Grand Jury Report Profile 08.14.18

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Fr. George J. Parme

Ordained: 1948
Status: Settled

Died: 03/28/2002
Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

A man filed suit against the Diocese and Bishop in 2004 alleging abuse by Parme in 1954 when he was a 13-year-old altar boy at St. Aloysius in Wilmerding. Parme retired in 1989 and died 3/28/2002 at age 78. Claims included in Diocese's 9/07 $1.25M settlement with 32 plaintiffs alleging abuse by 17 priests. Named in 8/14/2018 PA Grand Jury Report and on the Diocese's list. Accused in a claim settled in 2020 in the low five figures of sexually abusing an altar boy, ages 13-14, in 1958-1959, while assigned to Most Holy Name in Pittsburgh.

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Fr. Peter R. Pilarski

Ordained: 1959
Status: Sued

Died: 10/9/2017
Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

Accused in a lawsuit announced in 11/2018 of abuse of a minor, ages 15-16, during 1966-1967, while assigned to Resurrection parish. Included on the diocese's list of accused in 2022. Pilarski died in 2017. Included on the diocese's list of accused.

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Fr. Paul E. Pindel

Ordained: 1951
Status: Sued

Died: 02/26/1991
Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

Named as accused in the 8/14/2018 PA Grand Jury Report and on the Diocese's list of accused. Died in 1991. Report to the Diocese in 2/2002 that Pindel abused an 8th or 9th grade St. William's boy in the 1960s. Said to have taken boys to his farm, gave the accuser wine, orally copulated him and simulated anal sex. Report to diocese in 5/2003 of abuse of an 8th grader at St. William's school about 1965. Accused in 8/2011 of abuse of a 6- to 9-year-old CCD student 1980-1984. This accuser said Pindel would pull him out of class to the rectory, that an usher would watch the door during the abuse, and that the usher also abused him sometimes. Another report to the diocese in 4/2012 that Pindel sexually abused a 13- to 15-year-old boy 1957-1960. Sued in 1/2019 by woman claiming he abused her at age 15 in 1982. She said her parents informed the church, but no action. Lawsuit in 6/2020.

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Fr. Francis Pucci

Ordained: 1957
Status: Charged

Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

On leave 10/1987-2/1992 for 'health reasons.' Charged 11/1988 with indecent assault of boy in 1986 at the Marianna parish house, and with conspiracy for letting Fr. Richard Zula have sex with a boy at a parish Pucci pastored. Charges dropped on SOL. Banned from public ministry; retired in 2/1992. Died 4/5/2002. Report in 4/2002 that Pucci fondled a boy at St. Vitus school in 1962. Report in 2/2004 to D.A. that Pucci sexually abused a boy in 1988. At least three men alleged separately between 2014 and 2016 that Pucci abused them as boys at a Coraopolis parish. Named in the 8/14/2018 PA Grand Jury Report. Per the GJ, Pucci was part of a ring of priests who "raped children, shared intelligence on potential victims and [made] child porn.. ." The abuse involved whips, chains and alcohol. They gave their "favorite boys" big gold crosses to wear that would signal them as targets for abuse. Lawsuit in 11/2019 claiming abuse over three years in early 1980s of two boys, starting when they were ages 11 and 13, at St. Alphonsus in McDonald. Included on the diocese's list of credibly accused.

Assignments:

PA Grand Jury Report Profile 08.14.18

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Fr. John W. Rebel

Ordained: 1965
Status: Accused

Died: 03/17/2013
Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

First named publicly as accused in the 8/14/2018 PA Grand Jury Report. Included on the diocese's list of accused. Leave of Absence 5/1973-8/1974. In 2009 the diocese received a report from the parents of an alleged victim that Rebel molested their 10- to 12-year-old son in the 1970s. They said their son told them years later about the abuse; by 2009 he was deceased. The abuse allegedly happened in their son's bedroom after a mass in their home. Further, they said that Rebel would drive their son home after CCD, and that he would sob and beg them not to make him go to CCD. Rebel denied the accusations. He died 3/17/2013.

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PA Grand Jury Report Profile 08.14.18

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Fr. Joseph W. Reschick

Ordained: 1977
Status: Accused

Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

Suspended in 10/2018 after a report to police of sex abuse of a minor in the mid-1980s. Pastor for 28 years of St. Rosalia in Greenfield. Reschick denied the allegation. Allegations deemed credible by the diocesan review board in 11/2019. Case sent to the Vatican. Included on the diocese's list of accused.

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Fr. Raymond R. Rhoden

Donate Photo

Ordained: 1976
Status: Sued

Died: 11/4/2006
Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

First named publicly as accused in the 8/14/2018 PA Grand Jury Report. In 2002 the diocese received a report that Rhoden sexually abused a 16- to 17-year-old boy in 1976-1977. Rhoden had been a family friend. The boy's parents said they told Bishop McDowell about the abuse years before and he said he would "take care of [it]." Rhoden admitted to the abuse. He would go into the boy's room after the boy had gone to bed, massage his back, fondle his genitals and perform oral sex on him. Rhoden was placed on leave 5/17/2002 and sent to St. Luke Institute for an evaluation. He withdrew from ministry 7/5/2002 and retired to Sarasota, FL. He died 11/4/2006 at age 56. Lawsuit announced 11/2018. Another suit 1/2019 alleged abuse of a 5th-grade boy 1978-1980. Included on the diocese's list of credibly accused.

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PA Grand Jury Report Profile 08.14.18

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Fr. Edward A. Ricards

Donate Photo

Ordained: 1927
Status: Accused

Died: 01/17/1958
Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

Named publicly as accused by the Diocese of Pittsburgh on its list in 2019. Died in 1958.

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Fr. Carl M. Roemele

Ordained: 1963
Status: Sued

Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

First named publicly as accused in the 8/14/2018 PA Grand Jury Report. Included on the diocese's list of credibly accused. A woman told the diocese in 6/1967 that Roemele sexually abused her son and three other young boys while assigned to St. William's. He stayed in ministry until going on leave in 2/1976 and resigning in 8/1976. Laicized in 2/1978. Report in 8/2004 that Roemele molested three St. Joseph's altar boys; the man who alleged the abuse also said that when he was in 6th grade he saw Roemele molest a boy at night during a trip an Aleo Lake cabin. A 2008 report alleged abuse of an 11- or 12-year-old St. Joseph's altar boy in 1968. The abuse allegedly occurred after every mass for a year, and at a camp. In 10/2010, a woman alleged abuse of a a 10-year-old boy and others in 1969 at St. Joseph's and at a camp. She said her son started drinking at age 10 and died an alcoholic in 2003. In 2009 Roemele denied any abuse. Civil suit filed against Bishop Zubik and Cardinal Wuerl in 10/2018. Two more in 12/2018.

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PA Grand Jury Report Profile 08.14.18

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Fr. Michael C. Romero

Donate Photo

Ordained: 1977
Status: Accused

Died: 06/17/2000
Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

First named publicly as accused in the 8/14/2018 PA Grand Jury Report. Report to the Diocese in 1/2012 that a man alleged that Romero sexually abused him when he was a parishioner of Immaculate Conception in Washington PA, where Romero was assigned 1978-1982. In 6/2012 a woman told the Diocese that Romero had sexually abused her son and given him alcohol when he was an altar boy at Immaculate Conception. The alleged victim later told the Diocese that he was an altar boy at the parish from grade school until he was a high school freshman. He said Romero gave him gifts and that he and Fr. John Bauer gave him alcohol and talked a lot about masturbation. Romero went on Leave of Absence in 3/1990, which was his status until his death in 2000. Included on the Diocese's list of accused.

Assignments:

PA Grand Jury Report Profile 08.14.18

Sources:

Fr. Oswald E. Romero

Donate Photo

Ordained: 1950
Status: Accused

Died: 02/7/1997
Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

First named publicly as accused in the 8/14/2018 PA Grand Jury Report. In 4/2006 a 53-year-old man told the diocese that when he was ages 13-14 in 1966 or 1967, Romero sexually abused him. Romero was assisting at the time at St. Regis in Oakland, PA. The man said the abuse occurred under the guise of driving lessons, and that Romero fondled and performed oral sex on him. Romero retired in 1993 and died in 1997. Included on the Diocese's list of accused.

Assignments:

PA Grand Jury Report Profile 08.14.18

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Fr. David E.F. Scharf

Ordained: 1985
Status: Accused

Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

First named as accused in the 8/14/2018 PA Grand Jury Report. In 12/2002 the diocese received a complaint that Scharf had a foot fetish, and had massaged the feet of minor and adult males. He was admitted to St. Luke's Institute for treatment in 11/2003, there until 7/2004, then to a halfway house until leaving without completing his program in 2/2005. He attended St. Luke's continuing care workshops 2005-2010, where he admitted to massaging the feet of minors then masturbating to the image of their feet. Featured in the diocesan newspaper in 4/2010, celebrating his 25th anniversary as a priest. Per the diocese's list of credibly accused, Scharf was removed from ministry in 2016. Living in 11/2018 at St. John Vianney Manor.

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PA Grand Jury Report Profile 08.14.18

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Fr. Richard Scherer

Ordained: 1949
Status: Accused

Died: 12/21/2007
Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

First named as accused in the 8/14/2018 PA Grand Jury Report. A woman told the diocese in 8/1991 that when she was a student at St. Anne's in Castle Shannon 1957-1961, she was sexually abused by Scherer. Scherer alluded to his "relationship" with the student in a 10/1965 letter. In 1966 he was in treatment at Our Lady of the Snow/Clergy House Retreat in Minnesota. He was on Sick Leave 6/1965-5/1968, then worked as a hospital chaplain in Ft. Lauderdale and then Miami FL until his retirement in 1992. He died 12/21/2007.

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PA Grand Jury Report Profile 08.14.18

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Fr. Raymond T. Schultz

Ordained: 1947
Status: Sued

Died: 10/27/1999
Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

First named publicly as accused in the 8/14/2018 PA Grand Jury Report. Included on the Diocese's list of accused. Monsignor. Pastor of SS Peter & Paul in Beaver 1966-1997, Administrator there 1997-1999. Died in 1999. In 2009 a man told the diocese that he was sexually abused by Schultz in around 1978, when he was an altar boy at SS Peter and Paul and a student at the parish school. The man testified in 2017 before the Grand Jury that the abuse began in about grade 4 and continued until the middle or end of grade 7. He said it included oral and anal copulation and Schultz ejaculating onto his face. In 2012 the man and his parents met with Bishop Zubik. He said Zubik offered college tuition for his children, money for counseling, and a little bit of money. He refused because a confidentiality agreement was required. Schultz was named in a 6/2020 lawsuit.

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Fr. Francis A. Siler

Ordained: 1963
Status: Sued

Died: 12/10/2015
Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

First named publicly as accused in the 8/14/2018 PA Grand Jury Report. Per the G.J., a St. Bernadine Clinic report alluded to "sexual problems with adolescents" in 1972, which prompted Siler's transfer to another parish. In 1974 letter to the House of Affirmation Bishop Leonard wrote, "in the last three years the problem arose about which I spoke to you... .: A 1985 memo to Bishop Bevilacqua from a priest mentioned Siler making a pass at a young boy whose father was a policeman, which lead to Siler's removal from the parish. In 1994 a man confronted Siler about molesting him as a boy; Siler was hospitalized for feeling suicidal then sent to St. Luke Institute Continuing Care Workshop. Notes from St. Luke said Slier had relapsed. Allegation in 1995 of sex abuse of a 2nd or 3rd grade St. Catherine's altar boy (there 1975-1976). Allegation in 12/2002 of abuse of a boy 1972-1973. Another allegation 11/2011 of abuse of a boy 1972-1974. Withdrew from active ministry 2002. Died 12/10/2015. Suit filed 11/2018. Named Included on the diocese's list of credibly accused.

Assignments:

PA Grand Jury Report Profile 08.14.18

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Fr. Rudolph M. Silvers

Ordained: 1975
Status: Accused

Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

Silvers was publicly named as accused in the 8/14/2018 PA Grand Jury Report. In 11/1988 a young man, age 18, reported that Silvers fondled him when he was ages 12-15. Silvers denied the abuse. The man asked for money for counseling but the diocese refused, saying there were no funds. The alleged victim met with the diocese in 3/2002; SIlvers again denied the allegations. The diocese agreed to provide financial compensation for the man's counseling since 1979, and going forward. In 1990-1991 the mother of a boy, age 13-14, complained to the diocese about Silvers inappropriate attention toward her son, and was concerned about the same interest Silvers showed to another boy. The woman's son also wrote to the diocese about Silvers' behavior. In 2012 a man reported to the diocese that Silvers sexually abused him at St. Sylvester's in the mid-late 1970s, when he was ages 10-11. Silvers again denied the abuse. Silvers withdrew from active ministry in 7/2002. Included on the Pittsburgh diocese's list of credibly accused.

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PA Attorney General’s Report 08.14.18

Fr. Edward M. Smith

Order: CSSp
Status: Settled

Died: 09/6/1958
Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

A woman sued the diocese and both current and former bishops in 2004 alleging that she was abused at age 16 by Smith when she went to him for counseling at Sacred Heart in Emsworth. Smith was pastor of the parish from 1950 until his death in 1958. Claims included in Diocese's 9/2007 $1.25M settlement with 32 plaintiffs alleging abuse by 17 priests. Included in the 8/14/2018 PA Grand Jury Report (middle initial erroneously P).

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PA Grand Jury Report Profile 08.14.18

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Fr. Lawrence R. Smith

Donate Photo

Ordained: 1976
Status: Sued

Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

Accused in a lawsuit filed in 8/19 of repeatedly sexually assaulting a 12-year-old boy, who resided at the Holy Family Institute in Emsworth, in the 1970s. His accuser made the same accusations against Rev. Joseph Girdis in the suit. Smith retired in 2015.

Sources:

WPIX TV 08.19.19

Fr. Thomas E. Smith

Ordained: 1951
Status: Accused

Died: 04/20/2015
Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

Known as the "singing and dancing priest." Accused publicly at a diocesan listening session in 12/2018 by a woman who said he sexually abused her in 1967, when she was a 15- or 16-year-old St. Anselm High School student. She said he grabbed and played with her breasts when the lights were low at a school dance. He died at age 90 in 2015. Included in 2022 on the diocese's list of accused.

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Fr. James E. Somma

Ordained: 1959
Status: Settled

Died: 11/26/2002
Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

Retired as Air Force chaplain in 1984. In 1988 woman said she was abused as a child by Somma 25 years earlier. Claim judged "not credible" by the diocese; court later dismissed case due to statute of limitations. Remained in ministry until his death in 2002. Per his obit, he had "a passion for children" and adopted two Vietnamese children in 1970. Second allegation in 2002. Civil suit filed by a man in 2004. Claims included in Diocese's 9/2007 $1.25M settlement with 32 plaintiffs alleging abuse by 17 priests. Named in 8/14/2018 PA Grand Jury Report. It showed concerns in 1988 of four "potential male victims." Included on the diocese's list of credibly accused.

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PA Grand Jury Report Profile 08.14.18

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Fr. Bartley A. Sorensen

Ordained: 1976
Status: Convicted

Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

Arrested 12/10/2011 after a St. John Fisher employee saw child porn on Sorensen's rectory computer and told the Diocese. The computer contained 100+ images of prepubescent males. More charges after additional porn found during search. Had been at the parish three weeks. Was chaplain at West Penn Hospital 2004-2011. Prior to assignment at St. John Fisher, he was at St. Anne's in Castle Shannon for nine months. Federal Indictment. Pleaded guilty 5/23/2012. Sentenced to eight years in prison in 1/2013. Required to register permanently as a sex offender and pay a $25,000 fine. Included in the 8/14/2018 PA Grand Jury Report, and on the diocese's list of credibly accused.

Fr. Robert E. Spangenberg

Order: CSSp
Ordained: 1974
Status: Accused

Died: 12/23/2006
Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

Worked in PA, MI, NC, IL, FL. First named publicly as accused in the 8/14/2018 PA Grand Jury Report. Retired in 2003. Died 12/23/2006. Allegations of abuse of at least two minors in Pittsburgh. The diocese was contacted in 1988 by a woman who said her son had been abused by Spangenberg. The Spiritans moved Spangenberg to FL in 1989 due to the allegations. Kept in ministry. In 2009 a man reported that when he was a 15- to 16-year-old runaway and involved in prostitution, he had many "sexual encounters" with Spangenberg. He said the priest paid him to bring him other "young hustlers" for sex. He said Spangenberg liked to sniff glue while orally copulating the boy, and that he was a "really sick guy - he would have person urinate and defecate on him." On the Raleigh diocese's list in 10/2018. On the Charlotte diocese's list 12/29/2019. Name included in 10/2022 on the Chicago archdiocese's list of credibly accused. Included in the 5/23/2023 IL Attorney General's Report.

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Fr. Paul G. Spisak

Ordained: 1973
Status: Accused

Died: 01/30/2022
Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

First named publicly as accused in the 8/14/2018 PA Grand Jury Report, and on the diocese's list of credibly accused. In 10/1998 parish staff found gay and sadomasochistic porn in Spisak's room, along with questionable photos of Spisak with two different teenage boys. The photos were from vacations he would take high school age boys on between 1981-1990. Sent to St. Luke's in MD for evaluation in 11/1998. Kept in ministry. Alleged in 2002 to have abused a boy 15 years prior on a trip. Removed in 5/30/2003. Arrested in 4/2006 after caught at a mall secretly videotaping a man using a urinal. Spisak admitted to police to the act and said he had a "sexual fixation with the male buttocks." Living in 11/2018 at St. John Vianney Manor. Arrested in 11/2021 for filming a 13-year-old boy using the bathroom in a store. The boy told his father who alerted a store security officer. Spisak admitted to the incident to police but denied knowing the victim was 13. Died 1/30/2022.

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PA Grand Jury Report Profile 08.14.18

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Fr. Vincent Stancelewski

Status: Accused

Died: 11/4/1964
Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

Ordained in 1918. Monsignor. Founding pastor of SS Philip and James, where he remained for 42 years. Died in 1964. Named publicly as accused by the Diocese on its list in 2019.

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Fr. Lawrence F. Stebler

Ordained: 1963
Status: Accused

Died: 06/9/1997
Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

First named publicly as accused in the 8/14/2018 PA Grand Jury Report. Included on the Diocese's list of accused. Died in 1997. Report to the diocese that Stebler sexually abused an 8- to 9-year-old boy over two to three years in the 1960s, when Stelber was assigned to St. Hilary in Washington, PA. He said the priest was a close family friend who would often visit his home; the abuse allegedly happened under the guise of Stebler tucking the boy into bed at night.

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PA Grand Jury Report Profile 08.14.18

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Rev. James L. Stewart

Ordained: 1924
Status: Arrested

Died: 01/16/1952
Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

Named publicly as accused by the Diocese on its list in 2019. Died in 1952.

Sources:

Diocese of Pittsburgh List 2019

Fr. Andrew J. Suran

Ordained: 1933
Status: Sued

Died: 08/23/1971
Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

A woman filed suit in 2004 alleging that she was fondled by Suran as an 8-year-old. Further, 14 years later she took a teaching job where Suran was assigned and he fondled and kissed her again. A second woman filed suit in 6/2004 alleging abuse by Suran when she was 6. Claims included in Diocese's 9/2007 $1.25M settlement with 32 plaintiffs alleging abuse by 17 priests. Included on the Diocese's list of accused in 2019. Suran died in 1971.

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Fr. Richard Gerard Terdine

Ordained: 1965
Status: Accused

Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

First named publicly as accused in the 8/14/2018 PA Grand Jury Report. Included on the diocese's list of accused. Accused in 12/1988 of the sexual abuse of a 16-year-old boy who worked part time at St. Peter's in Keesport rectory, where Terdine was assigned. Terdine allegedly touched the boy's genital area on several occasions, gave him an x-rated video and condoms, and massaged his back. He resigned from St. Peter's and was sent to St. Luke Institute in MD for evaluation. He was returned to restricted ministry as a hospital chaplain. Living in 12/2018 at St. John Vianney Manor.

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PA Grand Jury Report Profile 08.14.18

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Fr. Charles A. Thomas

Ordained: 1935
Status: Accused

Died: 04/27/1967
Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

Monsignor. Died in 1967. First named publicly as accused in the 8/14/2018 PA Grand Jury Report. Included on the Diocese's list of accused. Per a 4/2/1996 diocesan memo, Thomas was accused of sexually abusing a boy on several occasions beginning in 1958, while assigned to St. Hugh in Carmichaels, PA. His alleged victim said a nun at the parish helped Thomas with some of the abuse, and that she sexually assaulted him separately at times.

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PA Grand Jury Report Profile 08.14.18

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Fr. Daniel J. Tisak

Ordained: 1982
Status: Convicted

Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

Byzantine Catholic priest. Criminal charges filed in 1988 alleged Tisak abused a 12-year-old at a Pennsylvania YMCA. Tisak pleaded guilty. Sentenced to two years probation and six months at St. Luke Institute. Shown as "On leave" from Metropolitan Archdiocese of Pittsburgh, Byzantine per the 1989 Official Catholic Directory.

Sources:

United Press International 11.08.88

Br. David Trichtinger

Order: FSC
Status: Accused

Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

The diocese announced in 12/2018 that it had recently received an allegation that Trichtinger sexually abused a Seton-LaSalle High School student in the mid-1980s. Trichtinger was a counselor at the school 1985-1987. He also was an assistant principal 1991-1995 at Central Catholic High School.

Sources:

The Observer-Reporter 12.20.18

Fr. John M. Unger

Ordained: 1942
Status: Sued

Died: 09/19/2004
Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

First named publicly as accused in a lawsuit announced in 11/2018, claiming abuse of a boy at Sacred Heart Elementary School. His accuser said that he was a 10-year-old student at the school when Unger chose him to clean erasers, then led him to a secluded choir room and raped him. He said he asked "why?" and Unger told him it made him a bona fide member of the Catholic Church, and not to tell. The abuse allegedly occurred three times 1969-1971, with several other attempts. The man said other boys at the school were also sexually abused, and that they called the priest "Monster Unger.. ." He said two victims later died by suicide. Unger died in 2004. His name was included in 2022 on the diocese's list of accused.

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Sr. Bernardine/Alberta Veri

Order: CSJ
Status: Sued

Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

Known as Sr. Bernardine. Went on leave in 1980, later left the Order. Accused in a 1997 lawsuit of sexually abusing a high school senior in 1972. Veri denied the charge. Complainant stated that when she first came forward in 1994, the Order and diocese asked her to keep silent. They denied this. The lawsuit was dismissed due to the statute of limitations. The Order offered to settle in exchange for a confidentiality agreement; complainant refused. Order paid for therapy.

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Fr. John W. Wellinger

Ordained: 1970
Status: Settled

Died: 04/21/2011
Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

Sent to St. Luke's in MD 2/1986 for issues including substance abuse. In 10/1987 gave drugs and alcohol to an 18-year-old parishioner, who was hospitalized as a result. Concerns in 1989 from parishioner about his giving teens alcohol and drugs, and young men staying at the parish house. Sent to St. Michael's in St. Louis MO in 1991 after trying to perform oral sex on a 24-year-old man without consent. Sent to St. Luke's 9/29/1994-3/27/1995. Personal leave 6/1995. A few months later a young man alleged Wellinger sexually abused him at age 11 in 1989, then another report of abuse of a 13-year-old boy in 6/1991. In 3/2003 the diocese said Wellinger was "withdrawn from ministry." Suit filed in 2004. Claims included in Diocese's 9/2007 $1.25M settlement with 32 plaintiffs alleging abuse by 17 priests. Died in 2011. Report in 9/2012 of abuse of 11- or 12-year-old altar boy in 1981 or 1982. Named in 8/14/2018 PA Grand Jury Report. Included on the diocese's list of credibly accused.

Fr. Joseph S. Wichmanowski

Ordained: 1944
Status: Settled

Died: 04/28/1977
Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

Accused in a 2004 lawsuit of sexually abusing a girl for a year, beginning when she was age 12. Time-frame unclear, but possibly was while he was at St. Stanislaus in Ambridge, where he worked 12/1953-619/57. He allegedly made the girl dress provocatively, gave her wine, and forced her to perform oral sex on him. The abuse allegedly occurred several times a week. Wichmanowski died in 1977. Claims included in the Diocese's 9/2007 $1.25M settlement with 32 plaintiffs alleging abuse by 17 priests. Named in the 8/14/2018 PA Grand Jury Report. Included on the Diocese's list of accused.

Assignments:

PA Grand Jury Report Profile 08.14.18

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Fr. Thomas R. Wilson

Ordained: 1975
Status: Accused

Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

Placed on leave in 4/2019 after admitting to inappropriate contact with a minor while a seminarian. Added to the diocese's list of those credibly accused of child sexual abuse who are living and have been removed from ministry.

Sources:

Fr. George A. Wilt

Ordained: 1959
Status: Settled

Died: 05/21/2021
Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

Complaints in 2000 that Wilt made unwanted advances on a woman. In 4/2003, the DRE at St. Bernard expressed concerns, including his touching and kissing women and girls on the mouth. A woman filed suit in 2004 alleging that in 1961, when she was 13, she was molested by Wilt when she went to him for counseling after she had been sexually abused by her father. Wilt denied the allegations. Diocese investigated and cleared him. Retired in 2003 with restricted ministry; diocese said reasons had nothing to do with child sexual abuse. Claims included in the Diocese's 9/2007 $1.25M settlement with 32 plaintiffs alleging abuse by 17 priests. Named in the 8/14/2018 PA Grand Jury Report. Included on the Diocese's list of accused. Died 5/21/2021.

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PA Grand Jury Report Profile 08.14.18

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Fr. Robert G. Wolk

Ordained: 1966
Status: Convicted

Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

Report to the diocese in 1987 that Wolk sexually abused two PA brothers, starting when they were 12-year-old altar boys, and continuing over six years. Admitted in 9/1987 to the "sexual relationships." Placed on leave. Sent to St. Luke's in MD for treatment. The brothers filed a police report; Wolk was charged in 10/1988. The two filed suit in 8/1988, also accusing Revs. Francis Pucci and Richard Zula. Pleaded guilty in 1990. Sentenced to two concurrent 5-10 years in jail. May have abused one of the boys in Canada, VA, FL and OH. Report to the diocese 10/2003 of abuse of a boy mid- to late 1980s at St. Thomas Moore in Bethel Park. Possibly laicized in 2003. Per the 8/14/2018 PA Grand Jury Report, a report was made in 10/2017 to the diocese of abuse by Wolk and Rev. Francis Luddy of the Altoona-Johnstown diocese. Another allegation in 3/09 of abuse of a 14- to 17-year-old boy beginning 1968 while Wolk was at St. Athanasius in West View. A man in 9/2010 said Wolk and Rev. Leo Burchianti abused him as a child. Suit filed 6/2020. Included on the diocese's list of credibly accused.

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PA Grand Jury Report Profile 08.14.18

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Fr. William B. Yockey

Ordained: 1977
Status: Accused

Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

First named publicly as accused in the 8/14/2018 PA Grand Jury Report. In 1991 a 25-year-old man told the diocese that when he was age 16 in 10/1981 Yockey sexually assaulted him and that the same thing happened to his friend in 1983, as an 18-year-old high schooler. He said Yockey would take the boys to his cabin to go fishing, and that the two had known the priest since they were in 6th or 7th grade. He said Yockey would always give them beer. Yockey acknowledged the incident with the 16-year-old, but didn't remember yet didn't deny an incident with the other youth. Removed from public ministry in 7/1991. Applied to work at a V.A. in 2006 - diocese did not divlulge his history. Another allegation to the diocese 12/17/2013 of abuse by Yockey of a young boy while attending St. Bernadette in Monroeville, where Yockey worked 1978-1983. Found in 9/2018 by a news outlet to be working as a clinical social worker at a counseling center in Ashtabula OH. Suit filed 12/17/2018. Included on the diocese's list of credibly accused.

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PA Grand Jury Report Profile 08.14.18

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Fr. Theodore P. Zabowski

Donate Photo

Ordained: 1970
Status: Settled

Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

First named publicly as accused in the 8/14/2018 PA Grand Jury Report. Allegation to diocese 10/1995 of sexual abuse of a teenage boy 1975-1979. Placed on leave. Acknowledged having boys in his bed for "companionship" and possible inappropriate touching. Sent to St. Luke's Institute in MD. Returned to parish ministry in 9/1996. Withdrew from ministry in 7/2002. Settlement in 2020 in the low five figures of a claim that Zabowski sexually abused a boy, age 13, in 1974, while assigned to St. Lawrence O'Toole. The alleged abuse involved fondling and, on one occasion, Zabowski gave the boy alcohol. Included on the diocese's list of credibly accused.

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Fr. George Zirwas

Ordained: 1979
Status: Sued

Died: 05/20/2001
Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

First publicly named as accused in the 8/14/2018 PA Grand Jury Report. The diocese knew as early as 1987 of allegations against him of child sex abuse. Sent to St. Francis Hospital for evaluation in 3/1988 after an allegation. Sent to St. Luke's Institute in 12/1988 after two reports of abuse, of boys ages 16 and 17. Another complaint 1991. Kept in ministry until placed on leave 11/1994. Returned to ministry 7/1995 after threatening diocese with legal action. Another accusation 11/1995, placed on leave. Moved to FL, then Cuba where he was murdered in 5/2001. Grand Jury found him to have been involved, along with Revs. Francis Pucci, Robert Wolk and Richard Zula, in making child porn, sharing victims, and using sadism while raping them. Their "favorite boys" would allegedly be given big gold crosses to wear to signal them as targets for other predators. Lawsuit in 11/2018. Included on the diocese's list of credibly accused.

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PA Grand Jury Report Profile 08.14.18

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Fr. Stanislaus J. Zolnierzak

Ordained: 1936
Status: Accused

Died: 04/14/1998
Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

Also known as Stanley. Named publicly as accused on the Diocese's list in 2019. Pastor of St. Hilary in Washington PA 1958-1986. Died in 1998.

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Fr. Richard F. Zula

Ordained: 1966
Status: Convicted

Died: 09/29/2017
Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

Report to diocese in 9/1987 of violent sexual activity in the rectory by Zula with a minor, and with three other lay men. Sent to Institute of Living in CT. Placed on permanent leave. Two brothers alleging abuse filed suit, then contacted police in 9/1988. One said he was first abused by Zula in 1984 when under age 16. Zula was arrested in 11/1988. Pled guilty to two counts involving the two brothers; sentenced in 1990 to 2-5 years in prison. Sentence to run concurrently with one in another county imposed for 1-5 years. Diocese settled with the brothers with a confidentiality agreement. Revs. Francis Pucci and Robert Wolk were accused of abusing the same boys. More reports to diocese of abuse of boys by Zula, involving sadomasochism. Found volunteering at a parish in 2007. Died 9/29/17. Included in 8/14/18 PA Grand Jury Report. Suit filed 10/18 against Bishop Zubik and Cardinal Wuerl. Zula's name included on the diocese's list of credibly accused.

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PA Grand Jury Report Profile 08.14.18

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