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	Diocese Removes Priest Report Cites Sexual Misconduct 30 Years Ago Tribune Chronicle June 7, 2009 http://www.tribtoday.com/page/content.detail/id/523080.html?nav=5021 YOUNGSTOWN - A priest in Canton who once served at Warren's St. James, Youngs-town Cardinal Mooney High School and several other local churches has been removed from all ministry by the Youngstown Diocese. A news release from the diocese Saturday said the Rev. Thomas Crum admitted to allegations of an incident of sexual misconduct that happened more than 30 years ago when Crum was at Mooney but were newly reported, according to the diocese. The release said the allegations were reported to "civil authorities," and Crum admitted them to diocesan officials. The release said Crum was placed on administrative leave, which means he cannot publicly celebrate the sacraments, wear the clothing of a priest or represent himself as a priest in good standing. The release said the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops was advised of the situation and supports the decision of Bishop George Murry to remove Crum from ministry. The release said Crum had been in the diocese since 1975. He served at Mooney and was assistant pastor at St. James, as well as St. John the Baptist in Campbell, at the same time from 1977-79. Crum also had served at St. Christine in Youngstown, St. Mary in Orwell, Our Lady of Mount Carmel in Youngstown, St. Anthony in Canton and then took a leave of absence from 1994-97, when he returned as assistant pastor of St. Charles in Boardman. He then served at St. Peter in Roots-town and his last assignment at Our Lady of Peace in Canton. Murry apologized on behalf of the diocese. "The Diocese of Youngstown continues to be committed to protecting children and helping to heal victims of abuse. I am deeply sorry for the pain suffered by survivors of abuse due to actions of some members of the clergy, because nothing is more important than protecting our children." A spokesman could not be reached Saturday for further comment.
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