DIOCESE OF SCRANTON 799 800 Reverend Philip A. Altavilla Biographical Information YEAR OF BIRTH: YEAR OF DEATH: ORDINATION: 1966 N/A June 27, 1992 Employment/Assignment History 7/1992 - 6/1995 Asst. Pastor, St. Mary of Mt. Carmel, Dunmore, PA 6/1996 - 7/1996 Asst. Pastor, Holy Trinity, Nanticoke, PA 7/1996 - 3/2000 Asst. Pastor, St. Patrick, St. John the Baptist, Immaculate Heart 3/2000 - 7/2000 - 11/2004 - 2/2008 - 7/2009 - 9/2009 - 7/2010 7/2000 11/2004 2/2008 7/2009 9/2009 - 7/2010 11/2010 7/2010 4/2014 4/04/2014 4/17/2014 of Mary Chapel, Holy Cross, Scranton, PA Administrator, Church of the Immaculate Conception, Taylor, PA Pastor, Immaculate Conception, St. John the Baptist, Taylor, PA Pastor, St. Thomas More, Lake Ariel, PA Administrator, Nativity of Our Lord Church, Scranton, PA Chaplain, Holy Cross High School, Dunmore, PA Administrator, Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary, St. John the Evangelist, Scranton, PA Administrator, Immaculate Conception, Scranton, PA Pastor, St. Peter's Cathedral, Scranton, PA Removed from assignment Resigned Summary On April 3, 2014, the Diocese of Scranton was notified by law enforcement that Father Philip A. Altavilla had been arrested for indecent assault, criminal attempt - indecent assault and corruption of minors in connection with a sexual assault on a female that occurred on December 15, 1998 when she was 13 -years -old. The victim reported that on that occasion she had been an altar server assisting Altavilla with midnight mass. Afterwards, Altavilla provided alcohol to her and gave her a ride home. During the ride to her house, Altavilla pulled into a parking lot and parked the vehicle. He then swung her legs across his lap, touched her feet and worked his hands up her thigh towards her vagina. The victim told him to stop and he did. During the course of the investigation, Altavilla admitted to having fetishes with feet, legs, pantyhose, strangulation and chloroform. On April 4, 2014, Father Thomas Muldowney removed Altavilla from his assignment as pastor and revoked his faculties to exercise priestly ministry. 801 Summary On April 27, 2014, Altavilla submitted his resignation letter to Bishop Joseph C. Bambera advising that his resignation was effective April 3, 2014 "the day of my being arrested and charged." In a letter from the Diocese dated June 3, 2015, it was noted that Altavilla "had admitted to the alleged victim in a consensual phone intercept that he had touched her inappropriately." Prior to trial it was determined the statute of limitations had expired for the charges that were filed against Altavilla in connection with the assault on the victim. The case was dismissed but as observed in the June 3, 2015 letter, "not for lack of merit." A civil lawsuit against Altavilla and the Diocese was settled in 2014. The Diocese placed a notice in the bulletins distributed within of all the churches to which Altavilla was assigned, inquiring as to whether any minor in those congregations had been sexually abused by a priest, deacon, religious or lay employee of the Diocese. The victims were encouraged to immediately report such abuse to law enforcement. 802 Reverend Girard F. Angelo Biographical Information YEAR OF BIRTH: YEAR OF DEATH: ORDINATION: 1927 2009 June 4, 1955 Employment/Assignment History 6/1955 - 10/1955 Asst. Pastor, St. Matthew's, East Stroudsburg, PA 10/1955 - 9/1959 Asst. Pastor, St. Thomas, Archbald, PA Asst. Pastor, St. Lucy, Scranton, PA 9/1959 - 9/1962 9/1962 - 7/1963 Asst. Pastor, St. Francis, Scranton, PA 7/1963 - 9/1967 Asst. Pastor, Mater Delorosa, Williamsport, PA 9/1967 - 3/1972 Asst. Pastor, Our Lady of Grace, Hazleton, PA 3/1972 - 9/1973 Administrator, St. Raphael, Harleigh, PA 9/1973 - 7/2003 Pastor, St. Raphael, Harleigh, PA Pastor Emeritus, Sacred Heart of Jesus, Harleigh, PA 7/2003 Summary In September, 2002, Bishop James C Timlin received a letter from an adult male who wanted to report to the Diocese of Scranton that he had been sexually abused by Father Girard F. Angelo when he was 14 -years -old. This occurred during the time period when Angelo was assigned to Mater Delorosa in the early 1960s. The first victim noted that he did not wish to sue, nor make a spectacle of himself or those involved. Timlin contacted the male and advised that the allegations would be brought to the attention of the Lycoming County District Attorney's Office even though the statute of limitations appeared to have expired. Timlin interviewed Angelo who denied that any sexual abuse had occurred. Timlin advised the male that any compensation that he felt was due to him would be the responsibility of Angelo. The Bishop then suggested that the male contact Angelo about the allegations and provided him with Angelo's contact information. The male did not contact Angelo. The statute of limitations period had expired under Pennsylvania law. 803 Reverend Mark G. Balczeniuk Biographical Information YEAR OF BIRTH: YEAR OF DEATH: ORDINATION: 1957 N/A November 5, 1983 Employment/Assignment History 11/1983 - 9/1984 Asst. Pastor, St. Thomas, Archbald, PA 9/1984 - 9/1985 Asst. Pastor, St's. Peter and Paul, Plains, PA 9/1985 - 7/1990 Asst. Pastor, Holy Trinity, Swoyersville, PA 7/1990 - 9/1997 Asst. Pastor, Maternity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, 9/1997 7/2006 Wilkes -Bane, PA Pastor, Our Lady Help of Christians, Dorrance, PA Pastor, St's. Peter and Paul. Hazleton, PA, Transfiguration, West Hazleton, PA Episcopal Vicar of the Eastern Pastoral Region of the Diocese of Scranton, PA Leave of Absence Dispensation from the clerical state - 7/2006 - 7/2009 7/2009 - 3/2010 3/2010 10/7/2011 Summary On March 30, 2010, Father Mark G. Balczeniuk contacted the Reverend Richard J. Loch, Episcopal Vicar for Priests, and arranged a meeting with him. Balczeniuk stated that on the previous Friday he had spent the night at the home of a family with whom he had a close relationship. He admitted that while he was at their home, he kissed and hugged the family's son, whom he estimated to be in his twenties. Balczeniuk described the boy as having mental difficulties and being a little slow. He explained that he was reporting this conduct because he was informed by the Reverend Mark A. Honhardt that the boy's father was very upset and was going to report the incident to the Diocese of Scranton. On March 30, 2010, the father did report the incident to the Diocese. He stated that Balczeniuk had kissed his 18 -year -old stepson on the mouth, embraced him, and rubbed his back underneath his shirt. That same day, Loch notified Balczeniuk that his conduct warranted immediate and aggressive action. Loch advised Balczeniuk that he could not continue to function as a priest and that he would be sent to the St. John Vianney Center as soon as possible. On April the allegation. 1, 2010, the Diocese notified the Luzerne County District Attorney's Office of 804 Summary On June 11, 2010, Earley also sent a letter to the Wyoming County District Attorney's Office wherein he stated that Balczeniuk had made certain statements to Loch on June 7, 2010. The letter stated, "when he was a seminarian he was assigned as a counsel at Camp St. Andrew in Wyoming County. The priest stated that he touched the genitals of some of the young boys who attended the camp. This self-disclosed behavior is supposed to have taken place in the mid 1970s." On March 24, 2011, Balczeniuk notified Pope Benedict XVI of his request to be dismissed from the clerical state. Dispensation from the clerical state was approved on October 7, 2011. 805 , it was brought to the attention of the Diocese that 806 REDACTED -- ONGOING APPELLATE LITIGATION On , the Diocese reported this incident to the District Attorney's Office. It was determined that the behavior did not rise to the level of criminal conduct. 807 REDACTED -- ONGOING APPELLATE LITIGATION Reverend Joseph P. Bonner Biographical Information YEAR OF BIRTH: YEAR OF DEATH: ORDINATION: 1926 2007 May 30, 1953 Employment/Assignment History 6/1953 - 9/1954 Asst. Pastor, St. Ann's, Freeland, PA 9/1954 - 3/1964 Asst. Pastor, St. Nicholas, Wilkes -Bane, PA 3/1964 - 6/1964 Asst. Pastor, Ascension, Williamsport, PA 6/1964 - 1/1970 Asst. Pastor, St. Francis, Nanticoke, PA 1/1970 - 9/1970 Asst. Pastor, St. Cecilia, Wyoming, PA 9/1970 - 1/1972 Asst. Pastor, St. Juliana, Rock Lake, PA 1/1972 - 6/1981 Pastor, Resurrection, Muncy, PA 6/1981 - 6/1982 Pastor, St. Patrick's, Milford, PA 6/1982 - 9/1982 Pastor, St. Paul's, Scranton, PA 9/1982 - 9/1985 Pastor, St. James', Pleasant Mount, PA 9/1985 - 7/1998 Pastor, Sacred Heart of Jesus, Weston, PA 7/1998 - 6/2002 Retired, Pastor Emeritus, Sacred Heart of Jesus, Weston, PA 6/2002 Removed from ministry Summary On May 13, 2002, the Diocese of Scranton was notified by an attorney via letter correspondence that his client had been sexually molested by Father Joseph P. Bonner in 1975. The attorney explained that the victim and his family had been visiting from Arizona that year and were invited to visit with Bonner in the rectory. They spent the night there. The victim's two aunts and his cousin were provided with accommodations on the third floor while the victim was given a pull-out bed that was located directly across from Bonner's bedroom on the second floor. After the victim fell asleep, he awoke to discover Bonner lying in bed with him, stroking his [the victim's] penis. The letter stated that when the client asked Bonner what he was doing, Bonner replied, "I am sorry . . . I shouldn't have done that; Go back to bed." On May 30, 2002, the Diocese notified the Lycoming County District Attorney's Office of the allegation. The Diocese was subsequently advised that the statute of limitations period had expired. The District Attorney advised, however, that he would alert the local police to the allegation. He further advised stated that he may have an investigator speak with Bonner and the victim. On May 30, 2002, Bishop James C Timlin sent a letter to the attorney, advising him that Bonner had retired. He stated that the Diocese was appalled that alleged behavior would ever happen, or that such an accusation would be made against one of their priests. Timlin suggested 808 Summary that the victim contact Bonner directly in order to achieve a reconciliation of the troubling matter. On July 31, 2002, counsel for the Diocese notified the victim's counsel that the Diocese would make no payment of any kind to his client as it had no responsibility for the alleged conduct. The letter suggested that "you seek whatever redress you feel is appropriate from the responsible party." On January 27, 2003, a settlement was reached and the victim received $25,000. It was agreed that the settlement did not constitute an admission by Bonner and that the parties could not release the contents of the settlement agreement to the public. On March 12, 2004, the victim contacted the Diocese to report that he felt that he had not received any support from Timlin He pointed out that Timlin refused to inform the parishes where Bonner had been assigned so that other victims might feel comfortable to come forward with any reports of abuse. On April 13, 2004, the Diocese requested that the pastors of the parishes to which Bonner had been assigned publish a "Notice Regarding Sexual Abuse" in their bulletin. The Notice stated, in part, that "clerical sexual abuse may have occurred in this parish in the past. If this is the case, please come forward and make it known." On November 29, 2004, the Diocese received a report from a 47 -year-old male who advised that he had been sexually abused by Bonner when he was 14 to 16 years old. He stated that he was not interested in pursuing a lawsuit against Bonner or the Diocese. The Diocese sent a letter to the Lycoming County District Attorney's Office, advising of the allegation. On December 6, 2004, the Diocese agreed to assume financial responsibility for 20 psychiatric sessions for the victim. 809 Reverend Martin M. Boylan Biographical Information YEAR OF BIRTH: YEAR OF DEATH: ORDINATION: 1947 N/A August 30, 1980 Employment/Assignment History 8/1980 - 6/1982 Asst. Pastor, St. Jude, Mountaintop, PA 6/1982 - 9/1983 Asst. Pastor, St. Gabriel, Hazleton, PA 9/1983 - 9/1985 Asst. Pastor, St. Patrick, Scranton, PA 9/1985 - 2/1986 Asst. Pastor, St. Peter, Scranton, PA 2/1986 - 9/1986 Administrator, Blessed Sacrament, Wilkes -Bane, PA 9/1986 - 9/1987 Asst. Pastor, St. Mary of the Immaculate Conception, 9/1987 - 9/1988 9/1988 9/1989 6/1993 7/1994 7/1997 7/2001 7/2007 7/2009 - 9/1989 - 4/1993 - 1/1994 - 6/1997 - 7/2001 - 7/2007 - 7/2009 - 7/2011 7/2011 - 4/2016 4/05/2016 Wilkes -Bane, PA Chaplain and Procurator, Bishop Hannan High School, Scranton, PA Confessor, Spiritual Director, St. Pius X Seminary, Dalton, PA Chaplain, College, Scranton, PA Sabbatical leave Administrator, St. Rita, Gouldsboro, PA Pastor, St. Rita, Gouldsboro, PA Pastor, St. John the Evangelist, Honesdale, PA Pastor, St. Joseph, White Mills, PA Pastor, St's. Peter and Paul, Towanda, PA, St. Michael, Canton, PA, St. John Nepomucene, Troy, PA and St. Aloysius, Ralston, PA Pastor, St. Patrick, Scranton, PA Leave of Absence Summary In April, 1993, while Father Martin M. Boylan was serving as a chaplain at Marywood College, a male graduate student alleged that Boylan sexually harassed him and propositioned him for sex. The Diocese of Scranton sent Boylan for a comprehensive psychological evaluation at the Anodos Center in Downingtown, and, after the evaluation was completed, it was determined that Boylan would take leave from the ministry and undergo two to three years of outpatient psychotherapy. After completing the therapy, Boylan underwent evaluations in 1994, 1997, and 2004. According to a note in the file, the evaluations did not raise any serious concerns that would prevent Boylan from exercising public ministry. 810 Summary On March 31, 2016, the Victim Assistance Coordinator for the Diocese of Florida notified the Diocese that an 18 -year-old male had reported that he was touched inappropriately by Boylan when he was eight -years -old. On April 1, 2016, this victim contacted the Diocese and advised that the assault occurred at a summer event at St. Vincent's Camp in Honesdale. The victim reported that Boylan inserted his penis into the victim's rectum and touched many of his body parts, including his private parts. A report was immediately made to ChildLine. Boylan was subsequently interviewed by the Diocese and denied the allegation. He stated that he had no recollection of the victim. Boylan was informed that his faculties to exercise public ministry were immediately suspended and that he would need to vacate the rectory. He was encouraged to undergo residential treatment at St. John Vianney Center to which he agreed. On April 3, 2016, the Diocese notified the Wayne County District Attorney's Office of the allegation. Bishop James C. Timlin created an Independent Review Board in the early 1990s. In a letter dated April 5, 2016, a former member of the Board wrote to Bishop Joseph Bambera and noted that throughout the years, Boylan' s case had returned to the Board. The member stated that the Board noted that Boylan had resisted treatment and had resented the recommendations made by the Board and the team from Downingtown. In 1996, the Board had recommended that Boylan return to Downington, but this recommendation was ignored. The official notes of the Board observed that Boylan "attempts to orchestrate his own approach to therapy." The letter further stated that lolver the course of time, Boylan often wrote to Timlin, requesting to be appointed pastor. The Board always objected to this possibility. Nevertheless, Timlin appointed him pastor and Boylan continued to consistently appear at public events throughout the diocese." On April 6, 2016, the Diocese received a call from an anonymous male who advised that he was a student at Marywood University in 1983. The caller reported that Boylan had approached him with sexually suggestive overtures. The male reported this to the Marywood Administration. Although a contract was agreed to between Marywood University and Boylan - - which included Boylan' s departure from the University - - and this eased the tension between Boylan and the male student, the male advised that he was upset to learn that Boylan was still practicing as a priest. On May 25, 2016, the Diocese received a call from a former parishioner who advised of an incident of sexual abuse by Boylan that occurred in 1984. The caller advised that he did not intend to file charges and wished to remain anonymous. On August 23, 2017, the Pennsylvania State Police closed the investigation into this allegation of sexual abuse because of the victim's refusal to testify. A statement was subsequently released by the Diocese which stated, "While civil authorities have made this determination, the ecclesiastical process in Father Boylan' s case continues. Father Boylan' s status as a priest removed from ministry with his faculties to exercise priestly ministry suspended continues to remain unchanged." 811 Reverend Robert J. Brague Biographical Information YEAR OF BIRTH: YEAR OF DEATH: ORDINATION: 1941 1997 May 9, 1970 Employment/Assignment History 5/1970 - 9/1970 Asst. Pastor, St. Ann, Tobyhanna, PA 9/1970 - 4/1972 Asst. Pastor, St. Peter, Wellsboro, PA 4/1972 - 9/1979 Asst. Pastor, St. John the Evangelist, Pittston, PA Leave of Absence 9/1979 - 6/1980 6/1980 - 9/1980 Asst. Pastor, St. Maria Goretti, Laflin, PA 9/1980 - 9/1982 Asst. Pastor, St. Ann, Tobyhanna, PA 9/1982 - 9/1984 Asst. Pastor, St. Ann, Williamsport, PA 9/1984 - 9/1988 Pastor, SS Peter & Paul, Towanda, PA 9/01/1988 1/19/1990 Leave of absence Appointed Parochial Vicar, St. Ann, Naples, FL Summary On August 20, 1979, Father Robert J. Brague requested a leave of absence from Bishop J. Carroll McCormick. Brague stated that he had had doubts about continuing in the active ministry for several years. McCormick granted his request. On March 24, 1988, Bishop James C. Timlin received an anonymous letter from a parishioner advising that rumors were circulating about Brague and a high school female. On June 16, 1988, that same anonymous parishioner sent a second letter to Timlin, advising that the relationship between Brague and the teenage female was still continuing. The parishioner stated that it was assumed that Timlin had disregarded the previous letter and further suggested that TimIan did not have very much control over his priests. On August 29, 1988, Timlin received a letter from the sister of the high school female. She advised that Brague had had sexual relations with her sister at age 17 who became pregnant. She further advised that Brague had had at least two other affairs. On September 6, 1988, Timlin responded to the letter by stating that as soon as the matter was brought to his attention, Brague was removed from office Timlin noted that it was better to say as little as possible about the circumstances surrounding his removal rather than cause greater scandal through undue publicity. In the letter he further noted that, "Father Brague and your sister have a long, difficult road ahead. . . What has happened is their responsibility and certainly Father Brague will take care of his obligations." 812 Summary On December 1, 1988, the Reverend Neil Van Loon, Chancellor for the Diocese, sent a letter thanking Monsignor Henry Mansell of the Archdiocese of New York for his assistance in helping Brague secure a priestly assignment in his Dioecese. On December 7, 1988, the Archdiocese of New York notified Van Loon that the approval was not finalized, however. In April, 1989, the victim gave birth to a baby boy. On August 25, 1989, Timlin sent a letter to the Reverend John Nevins, Bishop of Venice, Florida, wherein he advised that Brague would no longer be able to exercise his priesthood in the Diocese of Scranton due to circumstances that had been discussed with Father Moretti. Timlin wrote that he wholeheartedly approved of Brague exercising his priesthood in Venice and highly recommended Brague. On January 19, 1990, Brague was appointed Parochial Vicar of St. Ann's church in Naples, Florida, effective immediately. On July 24, 1996, the victim requested that the Diocese cover the cost of tuition, or eliminate the tuition charge altogether, in order for her son to attend St. Agnes School in Towanda. On August 6, 1996, the victim was notified that her son would be able to attend the school, even though enrollment numbers were rather high for the following year. She was further advised that the school was willing to arrange for a scholarship for him. 813 Reverend Francis T. Brennan Biographical Information YEAR OF BIRTH: YEAR OF DEATH: ORDINATION: 1928 1974 June 5, 1954 Employment/Assignment History 6/1954 - 10/1957 Asst. Pastor, St. Therese, Shavetown, PA 10/1957 - 6/1965 Vicar Econome, St. Therese, Shavertown, PA 6/1965 - 9/1970 Chaplain, Marian Convent, Marywood, PA 9/1970 - 7/1974 Pastor, St. Maria Goretti, Laflin, PA Summary On August 4, 2010, the Diocese received a telephone call from a 65 -year -old male who reported that he was sexually abused by Father Francis T. Brennan when he was 15 or 16 -years old. He reported that Brennan took him to a drive-in movie and put his hands inside the victim's pants. The Diocese offered to arrange for counseling for the victim. That same day, an e-mail communication was sent from Chancellor James Earley to Bishop Joseph Bambera wherein he advised that in 2005, the Diocese had been sued by Richard Serbin, Esquire who was representing a client who stated that he had been abused by Brennan in 1966 when he was an altar boy. The Court rejected the case, however, concluding that the victim had waited too long to sue the diocese. A post-it note was attached to a print-out of this e-mail communication which stated "bad abuse case. perpetrator. [Victim] sued us . . . we won." 814 Reverend Joseph Bucolo Biographical Information YEAR OF BIRTH: YEAR OF DEATH: ORDINATION: 1923 N/A May 29, 1954 Employment/Assignment History 6/1954 - 9/1954 St. Patrick, Milford, PA 9/1954 - 9/1966 Most Precious Blood, Hazleton, PA 9/1966 - 9/1967 Asst. Pastor, Our Lady of Mt. Carmel, Carbondale, 9/1967 - 5/1970 Asst. Pastor, St. Lucy, Scranton, PA 5/1970 - 9/1972 Asst. Pastor, St. Anthony, Dunmore, PA 9/1972 - 4/1973 Asst. Pastor, Our Lady of Grace, Hazleton, PA 4/1973 - 9/1974 Pastor, St. Thomas, Elkland, PA 9/1974 - 7/1992 Pastor, St. Nazorius, Pardeesville, PA 7/1992 - 6/2002 Pastor, St. Mary, Lattimer Mines, PA 7/03/2002 7/25/2002 PA Removed from ministry Pastor Emeritus, St. Nazarius, Pardeesville, PA Summary On January 4, 1971, Bishop J. Carroll McCormick was notified that the parents of a 10 year -old boy had reported that during the previous summer, Father Joseph Bucolo took their son on a two day vacation to the New Jersey shore area. They advised that during this trip, Bucolo committed acts with their son that were "unbecoming a catholic priest." It was recommended that Bucolo be transferred immediately to another parish within the Diocese of Scranton. It was also recommended that Bucolo see his personal physician. McCormick memorialized the following on the memorandum: Father Bucolo called to see me this afternoon at my direction. He readily admitted the charge, insisting that once and once only did he commit an immoral act with the individual mentioned above - while on vacation last summer. He stated he had never before or since become involved in that way and said he was very sorry. He claimed that it was in a moment of weakness it had occurred. Bucolo agreed to go to St. John Vianney to see a psychiatrist. He was further advised that he would be transferred from St. Lucy. Bucolo was placed under Charter restrictions in June, 2002 due to his admissions to abusing the 10 -year -old boy. 815 Summary On September 1, 2010, a 64 -year-old male reported to the Diocese that he was sexually abused by Bucolo when he was an eight -year -old altar boy. On September 7, 2010, the victim met with the Victim Assistance Coordinator and agreed to meet with Bucolo face to face. On September 8, 2010, the Diocese notified the Luzerne County District Attorney's Office of this allegation. On September 20, 2010, the victim attended a meeting where he confronted Bucolo. Bucolo told the victim that he did wrong and asked for forgiveness. On December 9, 2010, the victim and Bucolo entered into a settlement agreement and release of all claims for the agreed upon amount of $20,000.00. 816 Monsignor Gerald J. Burns Biographical Information YEAR OF BIRTH: YEAR OF DEATH: ORDINATION: 1924 1999 June 3, 1950 Employment/Assignment History 6/1950 - 9/1950 Asst. Pastor, St. Ann, Shohola, PA 9/1950 - 9/1950 Asst. Pastor, St. Patrick, Wilkes -Bane, PA 9/1950 - 6/1952 Asst. Pastor, St. John, Honesdale, PA 6/1952 - 6/1953 Asst. Pastor, St. Peter, Wellsboro, PA 6/1953 - 9/1962 Asst. Pastor, St. John the Evangelist, Wilkes -Bane, PA 9/1962 - 9/1968 Asst. Pastor, St. Dominic, Wilkes -Bane, PA 9/1968 - 9/1970 Chaplain, Mercy Heights Hospital, Scranton, PA 9/1970 - 6/1982 Pastor, Blessed Sacraments, Wilkes -Bane, PA 6/1982 - 9/1984 Pastor, St. Gabriel, Hazleton, PA 9/1984 - 1/1994 Pastor, St. John the Evangelist, Pittston, PA 1/24/1994 1/1994 Retired Pastor Emeritus, St. John the Evangelist, Pittston, PA Summary On January 11, 1994, Bishop James C. Timlin received a letter from a woman who advised that her husband was sexually molested for years by Monsignor Gerald J. Burns during the time when he was an altar server at St. John's in the 1950's. On January 17, 1994, Timlin spoke to Burns and he denied any wrongdoing. Timlin suggested that it would be best for him to retire. Burns agreed. Timlin accepted the resignation effective January 24, 1994 On January 21, 1994, Timlin sent a letter to the victim and his wife apologizing for the pain and hurt that the victim had experienced. He advised that Burns had resigned and would never be assigned to another parish again. Timlin pledged to help both of them. On February 15, 1994, Timlin notified the victim that the Diocese would assume responsibility for the cost for his counseling. This responsibility was to be shared with Burns. On April 26, 1996, Timlin notified the victim that he had to bring some closure to the Diocese's payments for his therapy. On June 10, 1996, Timlin wrote a note wherein he indicated that he contacted the attorney who represented the victim and requested that the attorney return his call. He also noted that he 817 Summary had spoken with the victim and his wife, informing them that Burns had agreed to continue to pay for counseling for the victim, without any admission of guilt. An arrangement was made whereby the bills would be sent to the Chancery, who, in turn, would bill Burns. The victim and his wife agreed to this arrangement. In 1999, Burns passed away. Nothing could be located in the files to indicate that any further assistance was provided to the victim after this event occurred. 818 Reverend Anthony P. Conmy Biographical Information YEAR OF BIRTH: YEAR OF DEATH: ORDINATION: 1927 Unknown May 30, 1953 Employment/Assignment History 6/1953 - 9/1953 Asst. Pastor, St. Patrick, Milford, PA, St. Ann's, Tobyhanna, PA 9/1953 - 10/1955 Asst. Pastor, St. Francis, West Hazleton, PA 10/1955 - Unknown Asst. Pastor, St. Patrick, Scranton, PA Summary On July 23, 1955, Rt. Reverend Monsignor Dennis Kane sent a letter to Bishop Jerome D. Hannan advising that a situation in West Hazleton had been brought to his notice. He wrote that: It appears that Father Conmy is exposed to a danger because of a friendship which is not good for him and which is the occasion of gossip. If my judgment is correct and I think it is, a change to be effected when September comes around, will mean much for his protection. My thought is that he should be sent to one of the more remote parishes where the occasion would be remote. Moreover, he might be instructed to stay away from this Deanery. On August 5, 1955, Hannan responded to this letter by stating Conmy had agreed to Hannan' s invitation for an interview. Hannan further stated that he felt that Kane' s suggestion would be very acceptable to Comny since he had showed a willingness to cooperate in any manner that seemed advisable. On April 7, 2008, a 49 -year-old female reported to the Diocese of Scranton that she was sexually assaulted by Conmy when she was 10 -years -old. She explained that she and a friend had stopped at the rectory to talk to Conmy and thereafter got into a car with him. He dropped off her friend at her home. Conmy then drove to a wooded area where he molested her. He grabbed her wrist tightly and put his hand over her mouth as she struggled. He also put his knee in her stomach in order to hold her down. When he removed his hand from her mouth, she begged him not to kill her. Conmy told her that he would not kill her if she would lie quietly. He then took her off her clothes and touched her. He took her hand and made her touch him. Next, he performed oral sex on her. The victim wrote that: my whole world was being turned up -side -down, all my perceptions of ow things should be, of what good and bad were, or how people, especially priests, were supposed to act, of who to trust, were shattered. 819 Summary The victim requested that the Diocese not report this abuse to the Lycoming County District Attorney's Office. The Diocese agreed. In a letter to the victim dated May 30, 2008, Bishop James F. Martino advised that Comny had died. He offered to meet with her and assured her that the Diocese would assist her with professional counseling services. 820 Monsignor J. Peter Crynes Biographical Information YEAR OF BIRTH: YEAR OF DEATH: ORDINATION: 1941 N/A May 27, 1967 Employment/Assignment History 6/1967 - 9/1967 Asst. Director, Camp St. Andrew, Tunkhannock, PA 9/1967 - 9/1968 Asst. Pastor, St. Patrick, White Haven, PA 9/1968 - 9/1972 Asst. Pastor, Holy Rosary, Scranton, PA 9/1972 - 9/1975 Chaplain, St. Joseph's Children's and Maternity Hospital, 9/1975 - 6/1988 6/1988 - 7/1994 7/1994 - 5/2006 5/2006 5/19/2006 Scranton, PA Director, Our Lady of Fatima Center, Elmhurst, PA Pastor, Church of Corpus Christi, Montdale, PA Pastor, St. Therese, Shavertown, PA Removed from active ministry Resigned Summary On March 2, 2006, the Diocese received a letter from a law firm stating they represented a female that was sexually abused by Father J. Peter Crynes from 1974 until 1977. The abuse began when she was 17 years old and Crynes kissed her at a retreat. Over the course of the next three years, the abuse included fondling, fellatio and intercourse. At the suggestion of another priest during the victim's sophomore year at college, she confronted Crynes. When she did so, he laughed at her and told her that he wanted to continue even once she was married. On March 2, 2006 Bishop Joseph F. Martino issued a Decree that a preliminary investigation be opened concerning the allegations against Crynes. The allegation was reported to the Lackawanna County District Attorney's Office on March 8, 2006. The Diocese was made aware of another allegation of sexual abuse against Crynes on March 7, 2006. A female reported that when she was 15 years of age, she suffered from anorexia and her parents sent her to Crynes for counseling and direction. She stated that for two years the counseling was fine but then she rebelled at her situation at home. Her parents called Crynes to intervene. Crynes picked her up from a hotel and took her to Fatima Center for evaluation and counseling. The first night there, Crynes came into her room, sat on her bed, lifted her nightgown up and rubbed her thigh. A few days later, he stopped by to see her and asked her to rub his shoulders. He pulled her around and sat her on his lap where she felt his erection. Later that month, Crynes kissed her, putting his tongue in her mouth. 821 Summary Upon returning home, the girl discovered that she was pregnant. Her parents were upset and called Crynes for help. He came to the house and drove her to Keystone College. When they arrived, he parked the car and pulled her over onto his lap. That was her last contact with him. On March 12, 2006, Father Kopacz met with Crynes about the allegations of the first two women. He admitted to the sexual contact. He stated that he always saw his physical behavior with women as gestures of loving paternal affection. On March 29, 2006, the third woman met with Father Kopacz and the Diocesan Victim Assistance Coordinator. It was discovered that she first consulted with Kopacz in 2002. She had brought her concerns to Kopacz on the advice of her confessor and had difficulty understanding why Kopacz did not take her concerns to Diocesan personnel. Kopacz explained that he had been her confessor in the past and felt that her trust in him meant that he would not reveal her experiences to anyone. He stressed that he believed her and that he never forgot what she had revealed. Kopacz further explained to her that, at that time, there was no defined policy mandating disclosure of such matters. On May 19, 2006, Crynes resigned from St. Therese. On June 6, 2006, a woman and her husband met with Kopacz and the woman revealed that she was sexually abused by Crynes in 1970 and 1971 during her junior and senior years in high school. She stated that it began with her going for rides to various points around the area with Crynes after school. Crynes would park the car and pull her onto himself to hold and kiss her. He kept it at the level of holding, touching and kissing, and told her they would only progress to the level at which she was comfortable. He also told her that Jesus would say this behavior was okay as a sign of their special friendship. Stated noted that she had written a letter to Crynes in April, 2002 wherein she told him how she agonized over the years because of what he did to her and how it ruined her life. She demanded an apology from him. That same month, she received a letter from him. He asked her to please accept his deepest and most heartfelt apology. He then asked her to forgive him for the pain and trauma she experienced. On June 13, 2006, an adult female was interviewed by the Diocese. She was born in October, 1957. Throughout the course of her senior year, she and other friends attended events on a monthly basis (sometimes more than that) that were sponsored by the Diocese. Crynes was at these events. She reported that the abuse involved hugging and kissing and, on one of those occasions, he put his tongue in her mouth. She relayed that there was one occasion during the Sacrament of Confession where Father Crynes hugged her and told her that God loved her very much. He stated that he loved her and she was very special to God and very special to him. He then put his mouth on her mouth with his tongue going in and out of her mouth like a snake. He pulled her close to him and she could feel he had an erection. He continued to kiss her and was moaning during it. On June 21, 2011, the Congregation for the Doctrine of Faith, issued a Decree that Crynes was removed from any public ministry and shall live a life of prayer and penance. 822 Summary On January 15, 2016, a law firm notified the Diocese that they represented a 59 -year -old woman who reported that she was repeatedly sexually molested by Crynes from approximately 1972 to 1973 when she was 16 to 17 years of age. She met him through an encounter program sponsored by the Diocese. On January 21, 2016, the Diocese notified the Lackawanna County District Attorney's Office of these allegations. The Diocese of Scranton assisted with therapy for those victims that followed through with the protocol set up by the Diocese. 823 Reverend Raymond L. Deviney Biographical Information YEAR OF BIRTH: YEAR OF DEATH: ORDINATION: 1932 Unknown May 23, 1959 Employment/Assignment History 6/1959 - 10/1959 Asst. Pastor, St. Mary of the Mount, Mt. Pocono, PA 10/1959 - 10/1960 Asst. Pastor, St. John Evangelist, Susquehanna, PA 10/1960 - 3/1964 Asst. Pastor, St. Thomas More, Lake Ariel, PA 3/1964 - 9/1968 Asst. Pastor, St. Gabriel's, Hazleton, PA 9/1968 - 9/1969 Asst. Pastor, St. John Evangelist, Pittston, PA Asst. Pastor, St. John Evangelist, Wilkes -Bane, PA 9/1969 - 9/1976 9/1976 - 7/2007 Pastor, Christ the King, Blakeslee, PA 7/2007 Pastor Emeritus, Christ the King, Blakeslee, PA Summary On October 8, 1994, an adult female informed Bishop James C. Timlin that she was sexually abused by Father Raymond L. Deviney when she was a teenager in high school. She stated that he repeatedly acted sexually inappropriately with her, placing his hand on her thigh and asking her if she trusted him as he moved his hand further up her leg. She further reported that when she approached Deviney and confided in him after losing a baby and her husband, he took advantage of her and violated her. Timlin, in turn, sent her a letter dated January 6, 1995 wherein he apologized for Deviney's actions. He informed her that he would address the matter with Deviney and deal with it appropriately Timlin asked that she contact him so he could talk to her before he met with Deviney. On June 17, 2001, the female wrote to Timlin, inquiring as to whether Deviney had ever received treatment for his alcoholism and abuse of women. She indicated that she was touched by his previous letter and telephone call and held onto the belief that the Bishop was a good and honest man of deep religious faith. She told Timlin that she would be in the area on a certain date and provided contact information for where she could be reached. On July 9, 2001, Timlin sent the female a letter apologizing for the delay in his response and for being unable to call her when she was in the Scranton area. He advised that he was not aware of any formal treatment that Deviney had received. Furthermore, he stated that he did not believe Deviney would ever admit that he had a problem with alcoholism and abuse of women. He advised that Deviney was approximately 67 years old and it was unlikely that he would ever see himself as a candidate for any kind of residential treatment. Timlin stated that he was sorry that she was still upset about whatever had occurred between her and Deviney and that he hoped that she would be able to put it all behind her. 824 Summary On October 6, 2002, the female wrote a letter to Timlin, stressing that she had delayed writing it because she was appalled by his complete change in attitude. She stated that she was quite angry and distraught that the seriousness of Deviney's actions had been swept under the carpet. On December 10, 2002, Timlin sent a letter to her wherein he apologized for giving her the impression that her complaint was somehow "swept under the carpet" or not taken seriously. He stated that he was finally able to talk to Deviney in person and reviewed her letter with him, along with her request that he be given some treatment. While Deviney did not admit to doing anything that was seriously wrong, he did agree to attend therapy. Timlin stated that he hoped that this would be of some help to Deviney and would be a source of peace of mind for her. On May 6, 2006, the Diocese sent a certified letter to each of the District Attorney's Offices within the Diocese. The District Attorneys were notified by Bishop Joseph Bambera that in in an effort to further the Church's ongoing commitment to transparency as it continues to address the sad reality of child sexual abuse, he was submitting for their information a confidential comprehensive list of all priests in the Diocese of Scranton against whom accusations of sexual abuse of children had been made. While Deviney' s name was on the list, the incident involving the female was not reported. The Diocesan file indicates that the allegation against Deviney was unsubstantiated. 825 Summary On , , was the Diocese of was notified by a law firm that their client, a when by No report was sent to the District Attorney's Office M 826 REDACTED -- ONGOING APPELLATE LITIGATION Reverend Donald J. Dorsey Biographical Information YEAR OF BIRTH: YEAR OF DEATH: ORDINATION: 1929 2007 June 4, 1955 Employment/Assignment History 6/1955 - 10/1955 Asst. Pastor, St. Ann, Shohola, PA 10/1955 - 2/1959 Asst. Pastor, St. Leo, Ashley, PA, 2/1959 - 10/1959 10/1959 - 12/1960 12/1960 6/29/1964 Faculties withdrawn, Sent to Hospice Asst. Pastor, St. Ann, Shohola, PA, Faculties reinstated Sent to Hospice Faculties revoked Summary On February 3, 1959 and February 6, 1959, the Diocese of Scranton received two complaints about Father Donald J. Dorsey. One complaint indicated that Dorsey was with a high school girl. The other complaint indicated that Dorsey was creating scandal by spending time with - - and being too close with - - females in the town. On February 13, 1959, Bishop Hannon directed Dorsey to report to hospice and that his faculties were to be withdrawn. He further directed that Dorsey was forbidden to enter any house in Ashley, or in the territory of St. Leo's parish, and that he was forbidden to meet at any place under any circumstances - - or to communicate in any way with - - any person of the female sex whose domicile or quasi -domicile was at this time, or at any time within the territory of Ashley or within the territory of St. Leo's parish. On October 1, 1959, the Diocese reinstated Dorsey and appointed him to St. Ann. With this appointment, Hannon forbid Dorsey to visit any homes in Ashley or Wilkes -Bane. Dorsey was again placed in hospice. On June 29, 1964, Hannon revoked the faculties of the Diocese for Dorsey. Hannon subsequently received inquiries from the Diocese of New York and the Diocese of Burlington, Vermont about Dorsey. Hannon notified them that Dorsey was an incorrigible recidivist. He advised that Dorsey was first sent to the Diocesan hospice after he became sexually involved with a high school girl. Dorsey was listed as withdrawing from the Diocese in 1975. 827 Summary A letter dated was sent to the Diocese from a parishioner who advised that during the previous Sunday, she had received a telephone call from a local police officer who asked her to meet him at the police station. On who reported that the Diocese received an anonymous letter from a parishioner The Diocese referred the anonymous letter District Attorney's Office. was questioned and denied the . to the allegation. On , the Diocese sent a letter to the Office recounting an allegation that was made by that 828 District Attorney's It was written . REDACTED -- ONGOING APPELLATE LITIGATION Summary REDACTED ONGOING APPELLATE LITIGATION Reverend John M. Duggan Biographical Information YEAR OF BIRTH: YEAR OF DEATH: ORDINATION: Unknown Unknown Unknown Employment/Assignment History 5/1988 Asst. Pastor, St. Paul, Scranton, PA Summary Father John M. Duggan was assigned to the Jesuit community in Scranton in the 1970s. In the late 1980s, he was approved by the Diocese of Scranton to assist pastors in the area. Then, in 1988, Bishop James C. Timlin appointed Duggan to be the Assistant Pastor at St. Paul. In 1993, Duggan was sent for a psychological evaluation and admitted to sexually abusing young children in his early priesthood. He denied that any of the abuse occurred within the Diocese. Upon his release, Timlin reinstated Duggan. However, Duggan was restricted to supervised ministry and was required to meet regularly with his aftercare counseling team. On December 11, 1996, an adult male reported to Timlin that he was sexually abused by Duggan in the 1970s when he was a teenager engaged in spiritual counseling at the Jesuit house in Scranton. Timlin thereafter imposed a ban on Duggan' s parish work and restricted him to convent and prison ministry. In 1999, the same male reported that he believed Duggan was participating in unsupervised ministry. The Diocesan Review Board recommended to Timlin that the only ministries that would be open to Duggan were the celebration of mass and the administration of sacraments in correctional facilities, nursing homes and convents. In May, 2002, the male contacted the Diocese and requested assurances that Duggan posed no threat to young people. Timlin then suggested to the Maryland Provincial that it would not be a good idea for Duggan to return to Scranton. The Provincial notified Timlin that Duggan had been removed from the Jesuit Community in Scranton. The victim reported his sexual abuse to the Lackawanna County District Attorney's Office but the statute of limitations had expired. Paperwork was located wherein it indicated that the Jesuit Community provided free tuition to the victim's children and transferred Duggan from the Jesuit Community in Scranton. 830 Reverend John J. Dzurko Biographical Information YEAR OF BIRTH: YEAR OF DEATH: ORDINATION: 1904 1991 May 21, 1932 Employment/Assignment History 6/1932 - 9/1932 Asst. Pastor, St. Joseph's, Matamoras, PA 9/1932 - 10/1932 Asst. Pastor, St. Mary's, Wilkes -Bane, PA 10/1932 - 6/1934 Asst. Pastor, St. Patrick's, White Haven, PA 6/1934 - 9/1934 Asst. Pastor, St. Mary's, Lackawaxen, PA 9/1934 - 2/1938 Asst. Pastor, Holy Trinity, Hazleton, PA 2/1938 - 6/1943 Pastor, St. Michael's, Forest City, PA 6/1943 - 9/1959 Pastor, Holy Trinity, Simpson, PA Pastor, St. Joseph's, Nanticoke, PA 9/1959 - 1/1970 1/1970 - 9/1979 Pastor, St. Joseph's, Wilkes -Bane, PA 9/1979 - 8/1991 Pastor Emeritus, St. Joseph's, Wilkes -Bane, PA Summary On November 28, 2005, the Diocese of Scanton received a complaint from a 48 -year -old female who stated that she was sexually molested by Father John J. Dzurko in 1957 when she was 11 years of age. The Diocese believed the victim to credible and deserved to receive assistance in healing from her childhood trauma. The Diocese subsequently paid the cost of art therapy for the victim. 831 Reverend James F. Farry Biographical Information YEAR OF BIRTH: YEAR OF DEATH: ORDINATION: 1921 1990 June 29, 1946 Employment/Assignment History 7/1946 - 6/1948 Asst. Pastor, Our Lady of Mt. Carmel, Carbondale, 6/1948 - 1/1953 Asst. Pastor, St. Francis, Scranton, PA 1/1953 1/1954 - 5/1960 6/1960 9/1966 - 9/1968 9/1968 - 11/1976 11/1976 - 6/1990 PA Suffered aneurysm, Confined to hospital Resident, St. Michael's School for Boys, Hoban Heights, PA Cure of Ars Hospice Asst. Pastor, St. Mary, Old Forge, PA Chaplain, St. Mary's Villa, Elmhurst, PA In Residence, St. Boniface, Williamsport, PA Summary In January 1953, Father James F. Farry suffered an aneurism and was unable to perform full time duties during his recovery. On January 1, 1954, Farry was assigned to St. Michael's School for Boys. On May 29. 1960, Farry was notified by Bishop Hannan that his relations with the guests of St. Michael's had made it intolerable for him to continue to live there. Additionally, Hannan stated that since he would not be able to meet the responsibilities of the ministry in any available post which needed priestly service, Farry was invited to take up residence at the Cure of Ars Hospice. On August 21, 2006, the Diocese received a report that resident at St. Michael's from 1953 to 1954 stated that he was sexually abused by a Father Collins. The victim later revealed that it was Farry. The Diocese filed a report of the abuse with the District Attorney's Office of Wyoming County. The Diocese agreed to assume responsibility for the co-payments associated with the victim's psychological counseling services. 832 Reverend James F. Fedor Biographical Information YEAR OF BIRTH: YEAR OF DEATH: ORDINATION: 1947 N/A May 12, 1973 Employment/Assignment History 5/1973 - 9/1977 Asst. Pastor, Holy Trinity, Swoyersville, PA 9/1977 - 9/1979 Asst. Pastor, St. Peter's, Scranton, PA Asst. Pastor, St. John the Evangelist, Scranton, PA 9/1979 - 9/1980 9/1980 - 6/1982 Asst. Pastor, St. Rose of Lima, Carbondale, PA 6/1982 - 7/1983 Asst. Pastor, St. Patrick's, Scranton, PA 7/1983 - 9/1983 Administrator, St. Mary's, Avoca, PA 9/1983 - 9/1984 Chaplain, Holy Family Residence, Scranton, PA 9/1984 - 8/1985 Pastor, St. Joseph, Wilkes -Bane, PA 8/1985 - 7/1986 Pastor, Holy Ghost, Olyphant, PA 7/1986 - 1/1987 Administrator, Christ the King, Dunmore, PA 9/1987 - 7/1991 Chaplain, Holy Family Residence, Scranton, PA 7/08/1991 5/03/1994 Indefinite leave of Absence Laicized Summary From 1981 to 1986, Father James F. Fedor sought counseling on his own for issues/concerns relating to his desire to have contact with young girls. From 1986 to 1987, Fedor received psychological treatment/evaluation. On July 7, 1991, Fedor was granted an indefinite leave of absence by Bishop James C. Timlin and he was laicized on May 3, 1994. On November 1, 2012, the Diocese of Scranton received an anonymous letter from an adult female. She claimed that Fedor abused her in 1978 when she was 10 -years -old. She stated that he engaged in grooming behavior which led to sexual abuse for a period of two years. On November 15, 2012, a letter was sent to the Lackawanna County District Attorney's Office about the allegation. 833 Reverend Ralph N. Ferraldo Biographical Information YEAR OF BIRTH: YEAR OF DEATH: ORDINATION: 1943 1997 May 10, 1970 Employment/Assignment History 5/1970 - 9/1970 Asst. Pastor, St. Mary, Jessup, PA 9/1970 - 9/1976 Asst. Pastor, St. Francis, Nanticoke, PA 9/1976 - 9/1979 Catechist, Bishop O'Reilly High School, Kingston, PA 9/1979 - 9/1980 9/1980 - 9/1984 9/1984 - 2/1986 2/1986 - 11/1986 11/1986 - 11/1988 11/22/1988 11/30/1988 In Residence, Maternity BVM, Wilkes -Bane, PA Chaplain, St. Joseph Hospital, Carbondale, PA Our Lady of Grace, Hazleton, PA Chaplain, GWV Medical Center Leave of Absence In Residence, St. Boniface, Williamsport, PA Leave of Absence Indefinite Leave of Absence, removed from active ministry Summary On December 3, 1974, Chancellor James C. Timlin received a telephone call from a female who stated that her 16 -year -old son had been touched by Father Ralph N. Ferraldo in an immoral manner She further reported that Ferraldo had done this to other altar boys and to an orderly at a local hospital. The female did not want to provide her name. When questioned by Timlin and Bishop J. Carroll McCormick, Ferraldo denied the allegations. He did admit that he had older boys visit his room in the rectory, but nothing wrong had occurred. He was asked not to do that anymore. Ferraldo thereafter asked for a transfer out of Nanticoke if things were being said about him. He was informed that it was their understanding that the talk was not widespread and it would be an admission of guilt for him to be moved. The caller was subsequently notified of the meeting between McCormick, Timlin and Ferraldo. She maintained that her son was telling the truth. She was told that if she wanted to pursue the matter, her son would have to come forward and face Ferraldo. Timlin pointed out that it was possible that her son was mistaken. An October 3, 1985 note in the Diocesan records reveals that an evaluation on Ferraldo was undertaken after a report of inappropriate behavior with a hospital patient was received. On February 14, 1986, two staff members from Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center called Timlin to report that Ferraldo made improper sexual advances against a 23 -year - 834 Summary old male patient. Ferraldo admitted to this allegation, stating that he did not know what comes over him. Ferraldo agreed to immediately leave his assignment and not return to the hospital. Timlin instructed Ferraldo to make arrangements for other priests to cover his masses and to tell them that he was not feeling well. He was further directed to report for evaluation and counseling. On November 30, 1988, Timlin granted Ferraldo an indefinite leave of absence. On May 14, 2002, the Archdiocese of New York notified the Diocese of Scranton that a male had reported that he was sexually abused by Ferraldo in 1982-1983 when he was 16 or 17 years of age. On June 6, 2002, Father Kopacz, Vicar for Priests, wrote that he had spoken with the victim and advised him that Ferraldo was removed from the ministry in the late 1980s and that he died in the early 1990s. The victim informed Kopacz that he did not report the sexual misconduct in order to expose Ferraldo, to embarrass the Church, or, to bring suit against the Church. Instead, he revealed the abuse for the sake of reconciliation. 835 Reverend Angelus Ferrara Biographical Information YEAR OF BIRTH: YEAR OF DEATH: ORDINATION: Unknown Unknown 1990 Employment/Assignment History ASSIGNMENTS: N/A Summary On September 20, 2000, Bishop James C Timlin received a request from Father Angelus Ferrara to establish the Society of the Annunciation of the Lord, which would serve as a retreat for priests and lay persons. The facilities were also to include the Mary Mother of God Monastery. Ferrara wanted to settle this religious community and monastery in the eastern part of Pennsylvania; however, he needed the sponsorship of a Diocesan Bishop in order to do so. Upon receiving the approval from Rome, Timlin notified Ferrara that he was willing to receive him into the Diocese of Scranton for the purpose of establishing the new religious community as of January 1, 2001. The Society of the Annunciation of the Lord was not to become a separate parish, however, so as to take people away from their local churches and be viewed as a competitor. The community settled in Warren Center. On November 26, 2003, Ferrara asked for the transfer of canonical sponsorship from the Diocese to the Eparchy of Newton for Melkite Greek Catholics in the USA. On January 10, 2011, the Executive Director of Catholic Charities received a report from the mother of a 14 -year -old boy who revealed that he was sexually abused by Ferrara at the retreat house. It was reported that Ferrara had the boy massage his male parts. Ferrara admitted that this conduct occurred. On March 28, 2011, Ferrara was terminated from his monastic venture. criminally charged and pled guilty. He was sentenced to state prison. 836 He was Reverend Austin E. Flanagan Biographical Information YEAR OF BIRTH: YEAR OF DEATH: ORDINATION: 1941 N/A May 28, 1966 Employment/Assignment History 6/1966 - 9/1966 Parochial Vicar, Queen of Peace, Hawley, PA 9/1966 - 9/1969 Parochial Vicar, Nativity of BVM, Tunkhannock, PA Parochial Vicar, St. Mary's, Avoca, PA 9/1969 - 9/1971 9/1971 - 9/1973 Parochial Vicar, St. Ignatius, Kingston, PA 9/1973 - 9/1975 Parochial Vicar, St. Mary, Avoca, PA 9/1975 - 9/1979 Chaplain, Little Flower Manor, Wilkes -Bane, PA Pastor, St. Thomas the Apostle, Elkland, PA 9/1979 - 9/1980 9/1980 - 6/1982 Pastor, St. Francis of Assisi, Mildred, PA 6/1982 - 9/1985 Pastor, St. Mark, Inkerman, PA 9/1985 - 9/1986 Pastor, St. Agnes, Forest City, PA 9/1986 - 4/1990 Pastor, Blessed Sacrament & St. John the Baptist, 4/1990 - 6/1990 6/1990 - 6/1993 6/1993 - 7/1994 7/1994 - 7/1998 71998 - 9/1999 7/2002 Wilkes -Bane, PA Sick Leave Residence, St. Thomas Aquinas, Archbald, PA Residence, St. Lucy, Scranton, PA Residence, Most Precious Blood, Hazleton, PA Chaplain, St. Joseph Medical Center, Hazleton, PA Residence, St. Francis of Assisi, West Hazleton, PA Chaplain, St. Joseph Medical Center, Hazleton, PA Removed from active ministry Summary On September 11, 1980, Bishop J. Carroll McCormick received a letter from a parishioner who advised that the parishioners were disgusted with Father Austin E. Flanagan. The letter stated that Flanagan would not let anyone in the rectory and that he was sleeping in sleeping bags with young boys. On June 27, 1990, Bishop James C. Timlin received a letter from Dr. Richard D. Malone, Associate Medical Director, St. Vincent's Hospital and Medical Center in Harrison, New York concerning Flanagan. The letter was sent upon the request of, and with the permission of, Flanagan himself. Flanagan related that approximately one month prior to his admission to St. Vincent's Hospital, he had been questioned about fondling two boys at a summer camp two years earlier. 837 Summary The boys had reported it to another priest who, in turn, reported it to Timlin Flanagan told Malone that he did not deny what happened. However, he stated, "I thought they were asleep and also I had a lot to drink." Flanagan acknowledge that several other similar instances in the past had occurred. There was no information in the files concerning the identity of the two boys. On July 3, 2002, Flanagan was removed from active ministry. In June, 2005, the Diocese was contacted by a 34 -year -old male who claimed that he was sodomized by Flanagan in the rectory at St. Mary's in 1973 when he was 11 -years -old. Flanagan was questioned by Father Kopacz and denied any wrongdoing. On June 27, 2005, the Diocese of Scranton reported the allegation to the Luzerne County District Attorney's Office. On May 6, 2016, the Diocese sent a certified letter to each of the District Attorney's Offices within the Diocese. The letter included a list that contained the names of all priests against whom complaints of sexual abuse of minors had been made. Flanagan' s name was on the list and several victims were identified. 838 Reverend Joseph D. Flannery Biographical Information YEAR OF BIRTH: YEAR OF DEATH: ORDINATION: 1928 2005 May 30, 1953 Employment/Assignment History 6/1953 - 6/1959 Asst. Pastor, St. John, Honesdale, PA 6/1959 - 4/1963 Asst. Pastor, St. John, Pittston, PA 4/1963 - 6/1963 Asst. Pastor, Holy Savior, Wilkes -Bane, PA 6/1963 - 9/1966 Asst. Pastor, Ascension, Williamsport, PA 9/1966 - 9/1967 Asst. Pastor, Sacred Heart, Jermyn, PA 9/1967 - 9/1970 Asst. Pastor, St. Jude, Mountain Top, PA 9/1970 - 9/1980 Pastor, St. Francis of Assisi, Mildred, PA 9/1980 - 9/1985 Pastor, St. Patrick, Nicholson, PA 9/1985 - 3/2000 Pastor, Immaculate Conception, Taylor, PA 3/2000 Pastor Emeritus, Immaculate Conception, Taylor, PA Summary In 1964, 1965 and 1966, the Diocese of Scranton received letters about Father Joseph D. Flannery' s affairs with women, his dating a young girl and getting her pregnant, and, being seen on vacation in Atlantic City with this female. The letters were received from a member of the clergy, a parishioner and the mother of the young girl. Nothing was found in the file reflecting an investigation or questioning of the priest. The matter was not referred to the District Attorney's Office. On May 6, 2016, the Diocese sent a certified letter to each of the District Attorney's Offices within the Diocese. The letter included a list that contained the names of all priests against whom complaints of sexual abuse of minors had been made. Flannery was included on that list. 839 Reverend Martin J. Fleming Biographical Information YEAR OF BIRTH: YEAR OF DEATH: ORDINATION: 1869 1950 September 14, 1898 Employment/Assignment History 9/1898 - 11/1898 Cathedral, Scranton, PA 11/1898 - 3/1899 Wellsboro, PA 3/1899 - 4/1899 Plymouth, PA 4/1899 - 1901 Sugar Notch, PA, St. John's, Scranton, PA 1901 1902 1907 1919 1902 - 1907 - 1919 - - Unknown Hazleton, PA Freeland, PA Moscow, PA Swoyersville, PA Summary On April 14, 2006, the Diocese of Venice, Florida notified the Diocese of Scranton that a female victim had reported that she was sexually abused by Father Martin F. Fleming in 1940 when she was six -years -old. The victim reported that she underwent counseling over the years. On June 30, 2006, the victim met with Bishop Dougherty and other members of the Diocese. She noted that she was in heart failure and "wants to put all of her ducks in a row." She stated that she desired to be counted as a victim of a priest from the Diocese of Scranton. She advised that this deepest secret came back again and again to trouble her spirit and cause her emotional distress. Dougherty called the abuse an abomination, expressing his deep sorrow for the wounding of her child self. The victim was strongly encouraged to consult with a woman therapist or trusted female friend. On May 6, 2016, the Diocese sent a certified letter to each of the District Attorney's Offices within the Diocese. The letter included a list that contained the names of all priests against whom complaints of sexual abuse of minors had been made. Fleming was included on that list. 840 Reverend Robert J. Gibson Biographical Information YEAR OF BIRTH: YEAR OF DEATH: ORDINATION: 1932 2012 May 31, 1958 Employment/Assignment History 6/1958 - 10/1958 Camp St. Andrew, Tunkhannock, PA 10/1958 - 9/1965 Asst. Pastor, St. Paul, Scranton, PA 9/1965 - 9/1968 Asst. Pastor, St. Matthew, Stroudsburg, PA 9/1968 - 1/1974 Asst. Pastor, St. Luke, Stroudsburg, PA 1/1974 - 9/1982 Administrator, Our Lady Queen of Peace, Broadheadsville, 9/1982 - 1/1983 Pastor, St. John Bosco, Conyngham, PA 1/1983 - 1/1995 Pastor, St. Bernadette, Canadensis, PA 1995 1/1995 - 8/1995 8/1995 - 1997 2/01/1998 PA Resigns as Pastor, St. Bernadette Leave of Absence Residence, St. Ignatius Rectory, Kingston, PA Faculties removed Summary On January 5, 1995, the Diocese of Scranton was contacted by an attorney representing a man who claimed to have been sexually abused by Father Robert J. Gibson in 1975 when the victim was 14 years old. Gibson admitted to the sexual misconduct. A civil action was filed against the Diocese and a $30,000 settlement was reached. On January 9, 1995, Gibson resigned as pastor of St. Bernadette. He was admitted to St. John Vianney Hospital in Downington for evaluation and treatment. In August 1995, Gibson was discharged with a recommendation that he reside at a parish under supervision and continue to receive therapy. He was placed in residence at St. Ignatius Rectory. In the spring of 1997, a complaint was received from a mother who accused Gibson of "grooming behavior" involving her son. Gibson was re -admitted to St. John Vianney Hospital for further assessment. On September 16, 1997, the decision was made that Gibson could no longer exercise priestly ministry or reside in a Diocesan facility. He remained under supervision until he was able to be placed in a residential treatment facility. 841 Summary On February 1, 1998, Gibson was placed in the St. John Vianney Renewal Center in Dittmer, Missouri. The facility monitors priests so as to prevent any behavior that would be harmful to the faithful. Bishop James C. Timlin removed Gibson' s priestly faculties and directed him to refrain from wearing clerical attire outside of the Renewal Center. Gibson refused to seek voluntary laicization. On February 26, 1998, the Diocese received information that Gibson was involved in sexual misconduct with his nephew, who was a minor at the time. On April 5, 2002, the Diocese received a letter from an adult male who accused Gibson of sexual misconduct and providing pornographic material to him when he was a minor. A copy of the letter were shared with law enforcement. On October 5, 2005, the Diocese was contacted by an adult male who reported that Gibson sexually assaulted him when he was a minor. The victim sought financial compensation. Gibson admitted to the allegations and arranged to pay the victim $700 a month until his own death. On July 16, 2007, an adult male reported to the Diocese that he was sexually abused by Gibson frrom 1973 through 1974. The Monroe County District Attorney's Office was notified of the allegations. The Diocese offered to arrange for counseling for the victim and to arrange for the victim to meet with the Bishop. The victim declined. Gibson was questioned about the allegations but had no memory of the allegations. Gibson was diagnosed with dementia. 842 Monsignor Joseph G. Gilgallon Biographical Information YEAR OF BIRTH: YEAR OF DEATH: ORDINATION: 1934 1991 May 23, 1959 Employment/Assignment History 6/1959 - 6/1966 Asst. Pastor, St. Basil, Dushore, PA 6/1966 - 9/1966 Asst. Pastor, St. Francis, Eagles Mere, PA 9/1966 - 9/1972 Pastor, St. Ignatius, Kingston, PA 9/1972 - 9/1985 Pastor, St. Peter, Scranton, PA 9/1985 - 9/1987 Pastor, St. Therese, Shavertown, PA 9/1987 - 2/1991 Pastor, St. Francis, West Hazleton, PA Summary On January 31, 2006, the Diocese of Scranton was notified that a 40 -year-old adult male who was undergoing counseling had alleged that he was sexually abused by Monsignor Joseph G. Gilgallon on December 31, 1986. Although the Diocese could not locate any paperwork that the incident had been reported by the victim, the Diocese spoke with other priests in service during that time period and confirmed that the abuse took place in the rectory. Counseling was continued for the victim. On May 6, 2016, the Diocese sent a certified letter to each of the District Attorney's Offices within the Diocese. The letter included a list that contained the names of all priests against whom complaints of sexual abuse of minors had been made. Gilgallon was included in that list. 843 Reverend Joseph A. Griffin Biographical Information YEAR OF BIRTH: YEAR OF DEATH: ORDINATION: 1901 1988 June 11, 1927 Employment/Assignment History 6/1927 - 9/1927 Asst. Pastor, St. Matthew, East Stroudsburg, PA 9/1927 - 2/1928 Asst. Pastor, St. Andrew, Blossburg, PA 2/1928 - 9/1929 Asst. Pastor, Annunciation, Williamsport, PA Studies - Catholic University 9/1929 - 1/1932 1/1932 - 9/1938 Chaplain, & Teacher, Marywood College, Scranton, PA 9/1938 - 6/1944 Chaplain, St. Joseph Children and Maternity Hospital, 6/1944 9/1951 9/1952 1/1967 9/1974 9/1976 5/1980 7/1980 - 9/1951 - 9/1952 - 1/1967 - 9/1974 - 9/1976 - 7/1980 Scranton, PA Pastor, St. Catherine, Moscow, PA Administrator, St. Basil, Dushore, PA Pastor, St's Peter & Paul, Towanda, PA Pastor, St. Mary, Avoca, PA Chaplain, Marian Convent, Scranton, PA Retired Part-time Administrator, St. Catherine, Moscow, PA Part-time Administrator, Blessed Sacrament, Hughestown, PA Summary In September, 2009, the Diocese of Scranton was contacted by a 42 -year -old male who reported that he was sexually abused by Father Joseph A. Griffin in 1967 when he was nine years old. This occurred when Griffin took the victim and other boys on boat trips to Seneca Lake, NY and to a summer cottage at Lake Henry in the Poconos. The caller stated that Griffin touched him, rubbed his backside and slept with his arm around him. The victim stated that he did not wish to pursue any action against the Diocese; rather, he just wanted the Diocese to be aware of what had occurred. The victim contacted the Diocese again in 2011, just wanting to talk about what had happened to him. 844 Reverend P. Lawrence Homer Biographical Information YEAR OF BIRTH: YEAR OF DEATH: ORDINATION: 1933 2015 May 23, 1959 Employment/Assignment History 8/1959 - 10/1961 Asst. Pastor, Vicar, Holy Rosary, Scranton, PA 10/1961 - 6/1964 Asst. Pastor, St. John the Baptist, Scranton, PA 3/1965 - 9/1965 Asst. Pastor, Gate of Heaven, Dallas, PA 9/1965 - 9/1966 Asst. Pastor, Holy Trinity, Hazleton, PA 9/1966 - 2/1967 Asst. Pastor, St. Boniface, Williamsport, PA 2/1967 - 1/1970 Asst. Pastor, Queen of Peace, Hawley, PA 1/1970 - 1/1977 Asst. Pastor, St. John the Baptist, Pittston, PA 1/1977 - 10/1993 Pastor, Holy Trinity, Hazleton, PA 9/1987 - 10/1993 Pastor, Our Lady of Mt. Carmel, Hazleton, PA 10/1993 10/1993 - 7/1994 7/1994 - 6/2002 7/03/2002 Resignation Effective October 03, 1993 Residence, Marian Convent, Marywood College, Scranton, PA Residence, Our Lady Queen of Peace Rectory, Brodheadsville, PA Removed from ministry Summary On January 15, 1967, Father Post was advised that Father P. Lawrence Homer had a 14 year -old female in his locked office for the duration of an entire class period. It was reported that he engaged in a sexual conversation with her wherein he asked her about her "sex hair" and the development of her breasts and nipples. He told her that while she was only 14 years old, she had the body of an 18 -year -old. Post was also made aware of a second victim that Homer brought into his office. This victim was also approximately 14 years old. It was reported that she was in his locked office for more than one hour. During that time period, he asked her sexual questions about herself and told her that one day he would have her come to his office and he would undress her. He also took her into the examination room next to the health office where he unbuttoned the front of her blouse, french -kissed her and stated that she "would be nice to marry even though it meant leaving the Priesthood." Homer was subsequently transferred to another parish. On January 24, 1988, a female notified the Diocese that she was sexually molested by Homer in 1964 when she was 14 years old. She advised that Homer had fondled her breasts under her blouse. 845 Summary The Diocese received multiple complaints from adult female victims over the years who alleged that they were sexually involved with Homer during a fragile time in their lives. One incident involved a nun whom Homer touched, hugged and kissed. Homer was sent for evaluation and treatment on two separate occasions. Information contained within the Diocesan files was very vague, however. None of the incidents were reported to law enforcement. He was removed from ministry in July 2002. 846 Reverend Mark A. Honart Biographical Information YEAR OF BIRTH: YEAR OF DEATH: ORDINATION: 1946 N/A February 2, 1980 Employment/Assignment History 2/1980 - 8/1981 Asst. Pastor, Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, 8/1981 - 7/1986 7/1986 - 10/1990 10/1990 - 1/1991 1/1991 - 6/1991 6/1991 - 8/2000 8/2000 - 1/2001 1/2001 - 1/2004 6/2004 - 6/2009 6/2004 - 6/2005 6/2005 - 7/2007 7/2007 - 7/2010 6/12/2009 6/13/2009 7/2010 - 2/2011 2/03/2011 Kansas City, MO Asst. Pastor, Holy Cross, Kansas City, MO Pastor, St. Patrick's, St. Joseph, MO Sabbatical Leave Asst. Pastor, Immaculate Conception, Kansas City, MO Pastor, Immaculate Conception, Richmond, MO Pastor, St. Rose of Lima, Savannah, MO On loan to the Archdiocese of Santa Fe, NM On loan to the Diocese of Scranton Asst. Pastor, St. Rose of Lima, Carbondale, MO Administrator, St. Anthony, St. Bridget, St. John the Baptist, Throop, PA Administrator, Our Lady Help of Christians, Dorrance, PA Excardinated to the Diocese of Kansas City Incardinated to the Diocese of Scranton Asst. Pastor, Ascension, Forest City, PA; St. Katherine Drexel, Pleasant Mount, PA Faculties removed Summary On February 2, 2011, the Diocese of Scranton was notified by the Diocese of Kansas City that there was an allegation that Father Mark A. Honart had sexually abused a young boy in 1985-1986 when he was in the fourth grade at Holy Cross. The Diocese of Scranton withdrew Honart's faculties and notified local law enforcement. Arrangements were made to relay the incident to law enforcement in Kansas City. In 2015, the Diocese of Kansas City -St. Joseph reached a settlement with the victim in the civil lawsuit. On February 3, 2011, Honart was assigned to a leave of absence for health reasons. 847 Reverend Joseph F. Houston Biographical Information YEAR OF BIRTH: YEAR OF DEATH: ORDINATION: 1937 N/A February 8, 1964 Employment/Assignment History 3/1964 - 9/1966 Asst. Pastor, St. Thomas More, Lake Ariel, PA 9/1966 - 9/1970 Asst. Pastor, St. Peter, Wellsboro, PA 9/1970 - 6/1977 Asst. Pastor, St. Paul, Scranton, PA 9/1977 - 9/1980 Pastor, Holy Child, Mansfield, PA 9/1980 - 9/1982 Pastor, St. Thomas More, Lake Ariel, PA 9/1982 11/1982 6/2002 - 6/2002 Resigned Pastor, St. Vincent de Paul, Plymouth, PA Removal from ministry Summary On June 29, 1971, Father George Jeffrey reported to Bishop J. Carroll McCormick that Father Joseph F. Houston and a minor female were observed going into a motel room late at night on multiple occasions. They had also been seen together in public on a regular basis. On May 4, 2002, Bishop James C. Timlin received a letter from this female victim, advising that Houston had taken advantage of her from the age of 14 to the age of 17. She asked that the incident not be brought to the attention of law enforcement. On May 11, 2002, Houston sent a letter to her, apologizing for the pain that he caused her by his inexcusable behavior. On June 28, 2002, Houston was removed from his priestly duties by the Diocese. On July 06, 2004, Pope John Paul II granted Houston dispensation. On May 6, 2016, the Diocese sent a certified letter to each of the District Attorney's Offices within the Diocese. The letter included a list that contained the names of all priests against whom complaints of sexual abuse of minors had been made. Houston's name was on the list along with the name of the victim. 848 Biographical Information 0n received a letter from an individual - 9 REDACTED ONGOING APPELLATE LITIGATION Summary The Diocese of Scranton received complaints from three adult males who claimed that they were sexually molested by in the 1970's during the time period when they the The first two complaints were received in 2007. . The Diocese issued a Decree that the allegations were to be investigated. A private detective was hired. Although the two victims were shown photo line-ups containing photographs of priests from the 1970's, they could not positively identify The Diocese determined that the complaints were unsubstantiated but did offer to pay for counseling for the two victims. Law enforcement was not notified. . In 2014, the Diocese received the complaint from the third victim who alleged that he was sexually molested by The Diocese listed this complaint as unsubstantiated. However, it was referred to law enforcement. . 850 REDACTED -- ONGOING APPELLATE LITIGATION Reverend Francis G. Kulig Biographical Information YEAR OF BIRTH: YEAR OF DEATH: ORDINATION: 1948 Unknown May 18, 1974 Employment/Assignment History 6/1974 - 9/1974 Asst. Pastor, St. Matthew, East Stroudsburg, PA 9/1974 - 9/1979 Asst. Pastor, Immaculate Conception, Scranton, PA Asst. Pastor, St. John the Evangelist, Wilkes -Bane, PA 9/1979 - 10/1985 10/1985 - 9/1986 Asst. Nativity BVM, Tunkhannock, PA 9/1986 - 8/1987 Pastor, St. Mary of the Lake, Lake Winola, PA 8/01/1987 9/1987 - 1/2001 1/2001 - 6/2002 7/03/2002 Resigned from St. Mary of the Lake Chaplain, Mercy Center Convent, Dallas, PA Chaplain, Holy Family Residence, Scranton, PA, Removed from ministry Summary On November 4, 1986, a concerned father wrote a letter to the Diocese of Scranton wherein he alleged that his son was sexually molested by Father Francis G. Kulig beginning in 1979 when the boy was 12 years old. The abuse continued until Kulig was transferred on October 2, 1985. It was alleged that there was mutual masturbation, oral sex and anal sex. When he was interviewed, Kulig admitted to having a relationship with the victim. He stated that mutual masturbation was the only activity that occurred. On December 30, 1986, Bishop Timlin acknowledged that Kulig would receive treatment. He underwent treatment from February 17, 1987 through August 14, 1987. At the request of Timlin, Kulig submitted his resignation from St. Mary of the Lake. Following his treatment, Kulig was assigned to the Mercy Center Convent. Upon learning of this assignment, the victim's father began writing Timlin, expressing his concerns that Kulig was still a priest. A sum of $10,000 was ultimately paid to the family. Effective July 3, 2002, Kulig had his faculties removed. He was prohibited from wearing clerical garb and presenting himself as a priest. He was further prohibited from celebrating mass or the sacraments as a priest. 851 Reverend Albert M. Libertore, Jr. Biographical Information YEAR OF BIRTH: YEAR OF DEATH: ORDINATION: 1964 N/A August 26, 1989 Employment/Assignment History 8/1989 - 6/1990 Student, Louvain, Belgium 7/1990 - 2/1991 Parochial Vicar, St. John the Evangelist, Pittston, PA 2/1991 - 6/1993 Parochial Vicar, St. Peter's Cathedral, Scranton, PA 7/1993 - 6/1995 Student, Louvain, Belgium 7/1995 - 6/1997 Director of Vocations, Scranton, PA 7/1995 - 4/1997 St. Pius X Seminary, Faculty, Dalton, PA 4/1997 - 6/1997 Resident, St. Clare, Scranton, PA 7/1997 - 1/2004 Administrator, Sacred Heart of Jesus, Duryea, PA 5/2004 5/26/2006 Faculties removed Removed from the clerical state Summary On November 27, 1996, Father Joseph Bambera sent a memorandum to Bishop James C. Timlin expressing his concern about a close relationship between Father Albert M. Liberatore, Jr. and a young adult male. He wrote that he perceived it to be a potentially problematic situation. He stated that Liberatore knew the young male was not old enough to drink in Pennsylvania so therefore he took him to New York to consume alcohol. They spent the night there. Timlin wrote on the memorandum, "Confidential - no action taken." In March, 1997, a note was written that contained a summary of concerns about Liberatore. One concern was about inappropriate behavior by Liberatore in February, 1997 when 20 young men from Bishop Hoban High School toured St. Pius X Seminary. As they walked by a room with the door ajar, Liberatore was observed lying on the bed being given a back rub by a seminarian. Timlin noted on the summary, "Strictly Confidential, spoke to Father Liberatore about all of this. Matter was resolved." On December 16, 2002, Timlin received a letter from The American College in Louvain, Belgium. It was reported that while Liberatore was visiting there, a seminarian observed Liberatore taking a young man in his teens or early twenties into his bedroom. Liberatore was visibly inebriated. 852 Summary On December 30, 2002, Bishop Dougherty and Timlin met with Liberatore. He admitted to the activity described in the letter but assured them that the person was out of college. It was agreed that Liberatore would go for an evaluation in January, 2003. On January 3, 2004, the Diocese received a complaint that Liberatore had sexually abused two young men. The allegations were determined to be credible and they were reported to law enforcement. On July 15, 2004, Liberatore was arrested by the Lackawanna County District Attorney's Office. He was charged with indecent assault, corruption of minors, endangering the welfare of children and furnishing alcohol to a minor in connection with the sexual abuse of an altar boy between May, 1999 and May, 2004. Liberatore was also arrested by the New York City Police for a felony for a sexual assault on the same minor. Liberatore pled guilty in both cases. A civil action was also filed regarding this abuse and a settlement was reached in the amount of $3 million. 853 Reverend John A. Madaj Biographical Information YEAR OF BIRTH: YEAR OF DEATH: ORDINATION: 1914 1998 June 3, 1939 Employment/Assignment History 6/1939 - 9/1944 Asst. Pastor, Nativity, Plymouth, PA 9/1944 - 1/1946 Asst. Pastor, St. Mary, Wilkes -Bane, PA 1/1946 - 9/1946 Asst. Pastor, St. Hedwig, Kingston, PA 9/1946 - 5/1950 Asst. Pastor, St. Adalbert, Glen Lyon, PA 5/1950 - 10/1955 Pastor, St. Joseph, Morrris Run, PA 10/1955 - 1/1970 Pastor, Sacred Heart, Forest City, PA 1/1970 - 9/1984 Pastor, Transfiguration, West Hazleton, PA 9/1984 - 1/1985 Pastor, St. Mary of Czestochowa, Eynon, PA 1/1985 - 9/1989 Pastor, SS Peter and Paul, Scranton, PA 9/1989 - 11/1998 Pastor Emeritus, St. Peter and Paul, Scranton, PA Summary In December, 1952, Father McHugh received two anonymous letters alleging that Father John A. Madaj was having an affair with his housekeeper. Nothing was found in the file to indicate that any action was taken on the part of the Diocese. On March 12, 1990, the Diocese received a letter from the parents of a 19 -year-old male, alleging that Madaj had sexually molested their son when he was nine or 10 years of age. When Bishop James C. Timlin confronted Madaj, Madaj denied the allegation Timlin then contacted the parents of the victim and informed them of Madaj's denial. Timlin recommended that their son speak to a counselor. He also suggested that they meet with Madaj. 854 Biographical Information Em ployment Assignment History 5' I a 93 a ?4 p?p?n p?REDACTED ONGOING APPELLATE 855 LITIGATION Reverend James M. McAuliffe Biographical Information YEAR OF BIRTH: YEAR OF DEATH: ORDINATION: 1914 1989 May 30, 1942 Employment/Assignment History 6/1942 - 9/1942 Asst. Pastor, St. Ann, Tobyhanna, PA 9/1942 - 3/1945 Asst. Pastor, St. Thomas, Archbald, PA 3/1945 - 6/1945 Asst. Pastor, Our Lady of the Snows, Clarks Summit, PA 6/1945 - 4/1947 Asst. Pastor, St. Mary's, Pittston, PA 4/1947 - 6/1953 Asst. Pastor, St. Paul, Scranton, PA 6/1953 - 6/1954 Asst. Pastor, St. Therese, Shavertown, PA 6/1954 - 9/1954 Asst. Pastor, St. Ann, Tobyhanna, PA 9/1954 - 2/1966 Asst. Pastor, Holy Saviour, Wilkes -Bane, PA 2/1966 - 9/1969 Asst. Pastor, St. Thomas, Dickson City, PA Pastor, St. James, Pleasant Mount, PA 9/1969 - 9/1973 9/1973 - 9/1989 Pastor, St. David, Scranton, PA 9/1989 Pastor Emeritus, St. David, Scranton, PA Summary On June 24, 2010, an advertisement was placed in a Scranton newspaper, inquiring as to whether anyone had served as an altar boy at a certain parish and was sexually abused by Father James M. McAuliffe. If so, they were asked to contact the listed telephone number. As a result of this advertisement, the Diocese placed an announcement in the bulletins that were circulated to all of the parishes to which McAuliffe had been assigned. The announcement requested victims of sexual abuse by a member of the clergy to come forward. Several victims responded. Financial assistance was offered in connection with counseling for them and law enforcement was notified. These incidents of reported sexual abuse occurred between September 18, 1954 and April 3, 1963. On August 23, 2010, one of the victim met with Bishop Joseph Bambera. He expressed concern that his report of the abuse was made in 1963 but McAuliffe continued to serve as a priest. Bambera confirmed that this incident was in fact documented in McAuliffe' s file. In March 1963, the victim had informed his father that he was sexually abused and sodomized by McAuliffe. This was reported to the Diocese and McAuliffe was removed almost immediately. He was sent to Kentucky to spend time in a rehabilitation facility. Bishop Hannon was notified by the psychiatrist in charge that McAuliffe was cured of his problems and was ready to be reassigned. Hannon refused to follow that advice, however, and noted in the file that no altar boy should ever be put in danger of being hurt again by this priest. McAuliffe went to live with his sister in Scranton. 856 Summary Hannon then traveled to Rome to participate in the Second Vatican Council. He passed away during the end of the Council. Thereafter, McAuliffe managed to return to ministry. Although the Diocese is now aware that McAuliffe re -offended on other young boys, there was no information in his file until the recent reports in response to the newspaper advertisement. On March 20, 1963, it was announced McAuliffe was assigned to St. Christopher's effective April 5, 1963. On April 3, 1963, Hannon rescinded this assignment, stating that an unforeseen physical indisposition had intervened to prevent McAuliffe from accepting the appointment. Monsignor Joseph A. Madden wrote in 1963 that McAuliffe was in need of some psychiatric attention. He also wrote to the parents of the victim that to report this was the best thing that could have been done for the interest of the Catholic Church; specifically, that Almighty God had seized this opportunity to make McAuliffe a better priest following his experience of being apprehended. Madden also made the following remark to the father of the victim, "after all your son was over the age of reason." 857 Reverend Neil McLaughlin Biographical Information YEAR OF BIRTH: YEAR OF DEATH: ORDINATION: Unknown Unknown 1959 Employment/Assignment History 1961 - 1983 Taught at Scranton Preparatory School 1971 - 1995 Celebrated weekend masses at St. John Bosco, Conyngham, PA 1985 - 1986 Served as the Assistant Director of Campus Ministries, 1985 - 2006 1990s 1996 - 2006 University of Scranton Administrative jobs with the Alumni Association at the University of Scranton Celebrated weekend masses at St. Mary of the Assumption, Scranton, PA Ministered part-time at St. Thomas More, Lake Ariel, PA Summary Father Neil McLaughlin was a Jesuit priest from the Maryland Province of the Society of Jesus. The Province had a Jesuit Community within the Diocese of Scranton. When Bishop Martino was installed as the Bishop of Scranton, he directed that a comprehensive review of all allegations of sexual misconduct involving clerics of the Diocese be conducted. A concern about McLaughlin was discovered. Jesuit priests are not governed by the Diocesan Bishop in the area where they are serving; instead, they are governed by their Provincial leader. As a result of the Dallas Charter in 2002, the Society of Jesus notified the Diocese of Scranton of an allegation made against McLaughlin by his niece. While in therapy, the niece had recovered a memory that in 1959, McLaughlin hugged her in a sexual manner at his ordination. McLaughlin was sent for an evaluation and was diagnosed as a latent pedophile. The Society recently sent McLaughlin for another evaluation and that the physician felt that there was an error in the first evaluation and that McLaughlin was not a threat to children. On January 30, 2006, the Diocese received notification from the Society of Jesus that it was recommended that McLaughlin continue ministry but that it be restricted to ministry that did not involve children. 858 Summary On January 11, 2007, McLaughlin was assigned to the Jesuit Provincial Community in Baltimore, MD. McLaughlin was notified by the Diocese of Scranton that his faculties were withdrawn. In December, 2008, an adult female reported to the Society of Jesus that Father McLaughlin touched her in a sexual and inappropriate manner in 1963, when she was 10 years old. The allegation was reported to the local police department in Maryland. 859 Reverend Joseph F. Meighan Biographical Information YEAR OF BIRTH: YEAR OF DEATH: ORDINATION: 1943 N/A May 25, 1968 Employment/Assignment History 6/1968 - 9/1968 Asst. Pastor, St. Ann, Shohola, PA 9/1968 - 5/1970 Asst. Pastor, St. Boniface, Williamsport, PA 5/18/1970 5/1970 - 6/1975 6/1975 - 5/1976 5/1976 - 12/1981 12/1981 - 9/1984 9/1984 - 9/1987 9/1987 - 7/1990 8/1991 - 1/2001 1/2001 - 2/2001 2/2001 - 6/2002 7/03/2002 Removed from St. Boniface and ordered to report for psychological evaluation and treatment Asst. Pastor, St. Matthew, East Stroudsburg, PA St. Meinrad, IN for further studies Asst. Pastor, St. Nicholas, Wilkes -Bane, PA Pastor, St. Martin of Tours, Jackson, PA Pastor, St. Boniface, Wilkes -Bane, PA Pastor, St. Therese, Shavertown, PA Resigned as pastor, St. Therese Chaplain, Holy Family Residence, Scranton, PA Chaplain, Mercy Center Convent, Dallas, PA St. Mary's Villa Nursing Home, Elmhurst, PA Removed from ministry Summary In 1970, at least four boys were interviewed by the Diocese of Scranton and reported that Father Joseph F. Meighan had disrobed and fondled them. Meighan was transferred and ordered to report for psychological evaluation and treatment. In 1990, a mother observed Meighan in the process of disrobing her 17 -year -old son in the parlor of the rectory. Meighan thereafter resigned as pastor at St. Therese and was again sent for psychological evaluation and treatment. After he was released, he was assigned to Holy Family Residence. He was then transferred to Mercy Center. The father of one of the victims protested this assignment, however, because it was too close to the area where his son had been molested. Meighan was then immediately assigned to St. Mary's Villa Nursing Home until his removal from ministry. At least 3 more complaints were made in 2003, 2007 and 2008. 860 Reverend Russell E. Motsay Biographical Information YEAR OF BIRTH: YEAR OF DEATH: ORDINATION: 1946 N/A May 13, 1972 Employment/Assignment History 5/1972 - 3/1973 Asst. Pastor, Most Precious Blood, Hazleton, PA 3/1973 - 9/1974 St. Aloysius, Wilkes -Bane, PA 9/1974 - 1/1975 St. Lawrence, Williamsport, PA 1/1975 - 9/1977 SSacred Heart, Peckville, PA 9/1977 - 8/1978 Asst. Pastor, Our Lady of Grace, Hazleton, PA 8/1978 - 6/1982 Asst. Pastor, St. John the Evangelist, Wilkes -Bane, PA 6/1982 - 9/1985 Asst. Pastor, Holy Name of Jesus, Swoyersville, PA 9/1985 - 7/1989 Pastor, St. James, Pleasant Mount, PA, 7/1989 - 7/1996 Pastor, St. Juliana, Rock Lake, PA 7/1996 - 4/2012 Pastor, Our Lady of Mount Carmel, Carbondale, PA 4/13/2012 9/15/2015 Resigned Removed from priestly ministry Summary On March 16, 2012, the Diocese of Scranton received an e-mail communication from a sender only known as "Jeff' he wrote that he needed to speak with the "Bishop only" concerning sexual abuse by a clergy member. A reply was sent to "Jeff' wherein he was encouraged to contact law enforcement immediately regarding the allegation. After receiving no response, a copy of the e-mail correspondence was given to the Lackawanna County District Attorney's Office. The victim was ultimately located and the case was turned over to the Wayne County District Attorney's Office. The Pennsylvania State Police interviewed the victim who reported that he was touched and fondled by Father Russell E. Motsay. He explained that he would stay overnight at the rectory and sleep in the same bed as Motsay. They would only be dressed in their underwear and Motsay would massage the victim, rubbing his inner thighs and fondling him. He reported that Motsay was sexually aroused during these incidents. The Pennsylvania State Police subsequently identified four additional victims who experienced similar abuse. Because the statute of limitations had expired, however, no criminal action could be taken. 861 Motsay was interviewed and admitted to the allegations. On September 15, 2015, he was permanently removed from priestly ministry. 862 Reverend James F. Nolan Biographical Information YEAR OF BIRTH: YEAR OF DEATH: ORDINATION: 1897 1957 May 15, 1929 Employment/Assignment History 6/1929 - 9/1929 Asst. Pastor, St. Mary, Lackawaxen, PA Asst. Pastor, St. Patrick, Wilkes -Bane, PA 9/1929 - 1/1931 1/1931 - 9/1939 Asst. Pastor, SS. Peter and Paul, Towanda, PA Asst. Pastor, St. Vincent, Scranton, PA 9/1939 - 6/1944 6/1944 - 6/1950 Pastor, St. James, Pleasant Mount, PA 6/1950 - 6/1956 Pastor, St. Charles, Sugar Notch, PA 6/25/1956 Resigned Summary On November 7, 2003, the Diocese of Scranton was contacted by a 75 -year -old male who reported that he was groped by Father James F. Nolan when he was a 15 years old altar boy. The male stated that Nolan had touched his genitals on the outside of his clothing. The victim was advised that Nolan had died. The victim declined an offer to speak with the Victim Assistance Coordinator for the Diocese and stated that he believed that he could now put the matter behind him. This matter was not reported to law enforcement. On May 6, 2016, the Diocese sent a certified letter to each of the District Attorney's Offices within the Diocese. The District Attorneys were notified by Bishop Joseph Bambera that in in an effort to further the Church's ongoing commitment to transparency as it continues to address the sad reality of child sexual abuse, he was submitting for their information a confidential comprehensive list of all priests in the Diocese of Scranton against whom accusations of sexual abuse of children had been made. Nolan' s name was contained on the list. 863 Reverend W. Jeffrey Paulish Biographical Information YEAR OF BIRTH: YEAR OF DEATH: ORDINATION: 1956 N/A September 3, 1988 Employment/Assignment History 9/1988 - 6/1991 Asst. Pastor, Our Lady of the Snows, Clarks Summit, PA 6/1991 - 1/1992 Asst. Pastor, Annunciation, Williamsport, PA 1/1992 - 6/1992 Asst. Pastor, St. Cecilia, Exeter, PA 6/1992 - 7/1993 Asst. Pastor, Most Precious Blood, Hazleton, PA 7/1993 - 1/1994 Asst. Pastor, Sacred Heart, Peckville, PA 1/1994 - 7/2000 Chaplain, Little Flower Manor, Wilkes -Bane, PA 7/2000 - 7/2004 Pastor, St. Francis Xavier, Friendsville, PA, 7/2004 - 11/2004 11/2004 - 6/2005 6/2005 - 9/2005 9/2005 - 11/2005 11/2005 - 3/2006 3/2006 - 10/2006 10/2006 - 7/2008 7/2008 - 7/2011 7/2011 - 8/2012 8/2012 - 11/2012 11/2012 - 7/2013 7/2013 - 11/2013 9/20/2013 St. Patrick, Middletown, PA and St. Thomas the Apostle, Little Meadows, PA Leave of Absence Asst. Pastor, St. Joseph's, Minooka, PA, Immaculate Conception and St. John the Baptist, Taylor, PA Chaplain, St. Mary's Villa, Elmhurst, PA Asst. Pastor, St. Patrick, Scranton, PA Leave of Absence Residence, St. Cecilia, Exeter, PA Asst. Pastor, St. Mary, Old Forge, PA Administrator, St. Elizabeth, Bear Creek, PA Leave of Absence Asst. Pastor, Holy Cross, Olyphant, PA Leave of Absence Asst. Pastor, Prince of Peace, Old Forge, PA Leave of Absence Summary On September 20, 2013, the Diocese of Scranton was notified by the Lackawanna County District Attorney's Office that Father W. Jeffrey Paulish was in custody. Campus security officers at the University of Scranton had caught Paulish having sex with a 15 -year-old boy. Paulish ultimately pled guilty to the charge of corruption of a minor and was sentenced to eight to 23 months in prison. The Diocese instructed the pastors of any churches to which Paulish had been assigned to advise their congregations that law enforcement had found Paulish engaged in an inappropriate act with a minor. The pastors were further instructed to encourage anyone who 864 may have been involved in, or may be aware of, any abusive situation involving Paulish to contact the District Attorney's Office or local law enforcement. 865 Reverend John A. Pender Biographical Information YEAR OF BIRTH: YEAR OF DEATH: ORDINATION: 1936 2009 June 6, 1962 Employment/Assignment History 6/1962 - 9/1962 Asst. Pastor, Queen of Peace, Hawley, PA 9/1962 - 2/1966 Asst. Pastor, Sacred Heart, Peckville, PA 2/1966 - 6/1967 Asst. Pastor, St. Leo, Ashley, PA 6/1967 - 10/1968 St. John, Susquehanna, PA 10/15/1968 Left the Diocese of Scranton without permission Summary Father John A. Pender was instructed to submit himself for psychiatric study by Bishop J. Carroll McCormick in October, 1968. Although Pender agreed to go to an institution for priests and nuns, he never reported for the treatment. Years later, the Diocese of Scranton was contacted by the Diocese of Jefferson City and advised that Pender was practicing in their Diocese. On May 6, 2016, the Diocese sent a certified letter to each of the District Attorney's Offices within the Diocese. The District Attorneys were notified by Bishop Joseph Bambera that in in an effort to further the Church's ongoing commitment to transparency as it continues to address the sad reality of child sexual abuse, he was submitting for their information a confidential comprehensive list of all priests in the Diocese of Scranton against whom accusations of sexual abuse of children had been made. Pender' s name was on the list, noting that an allegation from a "John Doe" was made in 2014. 866 Reverend Mark T. Rossetti Biographical Information YEAR OF BIRTH: YEAR OF DEATH: ORDINATION: 1959 N/A August 31, 1985 Employment/Assignment History 9/1985 - 1/1987 Asst. Pastor, St. John the Evangelist, Wilkes -Bane, PA 1/1987 - 9/1987 Asst. Pastor, SS Peter and Paul, Plains, PA 9/1987 - 7/1990 Asst. Pastor, St. John the Evangelist, Pittston, PA 7/1990 - 1991 Asst. Pastor, Holy Name, Swoyersville, PA 1991 1994 7/1994 - 11/1995 11/29/1995 Asst. Pastor, St. John the Evangelist, Pittston, PA Administrator, St. John the Baptist, Pittston, PA Pastor, St. Joseph, St. Joseph, PA Resigned Summary On November 1, 1995, the Diocese of Scranton was made aware of an incident between Father Mark T. Rossetti and a 13 -year -old boy that occurred when the boy was in eighth grade. It involving hugging, french -kissing and inappropriate conversations about how far they should go. The incident was immediately reported to the police. Rossetti was removed from ministry and sent for psychological evaluation and rehabilitation. On November 21, 1995, the victim and his family signed a waiver of prosecution to end the investigation. On October 17, 1997, Bishop James C. Timlin sent a letter to the Archbishop of New York. Although the Review Board for the Diocese of Scranton had reacted negatively to giving Rossetti an assignment in Scranton, it was Timlin' s personal opinion that Rossetti was not a risk and that he should be allowed to perform some priestly work. In his letter, Timlin stated that he would be deeply grateful if the Archbishop could allow Rossetti to work in New York, at least temporarily. The Archdiocese of New York released Rossetti back to the Diocese of Scranton in 2002. On November 11, 2014, Bishop Martino notified Rossetti that he was disturbed to find that his case had not yet been handled so as to comply with the requirements of the Code of Canon Law. He noted, "Bishop Timlin, I believe, felt that he had looked into the matter but was unable to decide on the truthfulness of the claims made by you and [the victim]." Rossetti was withdrawn from the sacred ministry. He was laicized in 2007. 867 Reverend Edward J. Shoback Biographical Information YEAR OF BIRTH: YEAR OF DEATH: ORDINATION: 1942 N/A May 27, 1967 Employment/Assignment History 6/1967 - 9/1967 Asst. Pastor, St. Ann, Shohola, PA 9/1967 - 9/1968 Asst. Pastor, St. Stephen, Plymouth, PA 9/1968 - 9/1970 Asst. Pastor, Holy Rosary, Ashley, PA 9/1970 - 9/1974 In residence, St. Therese, Wilkes -Bane, PA 9/1974 - 12/1980 Asst. Pastor, St. Aloysius, Wilkes -Bane, PA 12/1980 - 9/1987 Pastor, St. John Nepomucene, Luzerne, PA 9/1987 - 9/1989 Pastor, Transfiguration, West Hazleton, PA Pastor, St.' s Peter and Paul, Scranton, PA 9/1989 - 7/2004 7/20/2004 5/22/2009 Removed from active ministry Dismissed from the clerical state Summary On June 27, 2002, the Diocese of Scranton met with a male in his thirties who stated that he had been sexually molested by Father Edward J. Shoback 25 years earlier. The male was in theological formation and the Diocese of Raleigh terminated its relationship with him. Additionally, the St. Mary's Seminary in Baltimore dismissed him. The male stated that his troubles in the seminary were due to the sexual abuse. The male stated that he did not want to pursue the matter with Shoback because he liked him. He stated that he had put the matter behind him following several years of therapy and did not want to see Shoback defrocked. When confronted, Shoback denied the allegation. On July 19, 2004, an adult male contacted the Diocese to report that he was sexually abused by Shoback in 1981 at the age of 12. The incident occurred when Shoback invited him to watch a movie. Shoback removed the victim's clothing and performed oral sex on him at that time. The victim stated that he was certain that Shoback had sexually abused other boys. Three days later, a second male contacted the Diocese after speaking with the victim. He reported that Shoback had touched his genitals on the outside of his clothing. A third adult male then contacted the Diocese on July 26, 2014, and reported that Shoback introduced him to wine/liquor and pornography. The male reported sexual abuse by Shoback involving genital contact. When confronted, Shoback admitted to the allegations made by the first victim. He was removed from ministry. 868 Summary As a result of the 2002 Charter, the Diocese was required to place a notice in the church bulletins that were distributed to congregations to which Shoback had been assigned. The notice requested that anyone who may have been sexually abused by Shoback to come forward. As a result of the notice, three additional victims came forward. The statute of limitations had expired, however, in connection with their cases. The Diocese offered to assist with counseling services. Complaints received in 2007 and 2009 were referred to the Luzerne County District Attorney's Office. 869 Reverend Thomas P. Shoback Biographical Information YEAR OF BIRTH: YEAR OF DEATH: ORDINATION: 1951 N/A May 7, 1977 Employment/Assignment History 5/1977 - 8/1977 Asst. Pastor, St. Matthew, East Stroudsburg, PA 9/1977 - 1/1984 Asst. Pastor, Nativity of the Blessed Mary, Plymouth, PA 1/1984 - 8/1984 Asst. Pastor, St. Joseph, Hazleton, PA 8/1984 - 2/1989 In residence, Sacred Heart, Plains, PA 2/1989 - 6/1997 Pastor, St. Andrew and St. Mary, Blossburg, PA 7/1997 - 7/2002 Pastor, Our Lady of Lourdes, Montoursville, PA 7/2002 - 7/2004 Pastor, Holy Redeemer, Harding -Falls, PA 7/2004 - 7/2006 Pastor, St. Joseph, Hudson, PA, Sacred Heart, Plains, PA 7/2006 - 11/2011 Pastor, Sacred Heart of Mary, Jermyn, PA 11/15/2011 5/01/2013 11/14/2014 Leave of Absence Resignation Removed from ministry Summary On May 20, 2006, the Diocese of Scranton received a report that an 11 -year -old boy was sexually assaulted by Father Thomas P. Shoback when the victim was an altar boy. The allegation was reported to the Tioga County District Attorney's Office and was investigated by the Diocese. When questioned about the allegation, Shoback denied that anything inappropriate had occurred. The victim provided the name of another former altar boy who was also a victim. This second male was interviewed and denied that anything had occurred. No criminal charges were filed. Shoback was sent for an evaluation. On November 14, 2011, the male who had denied that anything had occurred when he was interviewed in 2006 revealed that he was sexually abused by Shoback when he was llyears old and serving as an altar boy. The Diocese filed a report with the Tioga County District Attorney's Office and also filed a report with ChildLine. Criminal charges for child sexual abuse were filed against Shoback for assaults that occurred between 1991 and 1997. In April, 2013, Shoback was found guilty. He was sentenced to five to ten years in state prison. On November 14, 2014, Shoback was removed from ministry. 870 Reverend John J. Tamalis Biographical Information YEAR OF BIRTH: YEAR OF DEATH: ORDINATION: 1944 N/A May 1, 1971 Employment/Assignment History 5/1971 - 9/1971 Asst. Pastor, St. Mary of the Mount, Mount Pocono, PA 9/1971 - 9/1976 Asst. Pastor, Queen of Peace, Hawley, PA 9/1976 - 8/1985 9/1985 - 7/1990 7/1990 - 7/1996 7/1996 - 3/1997 4/03/1997 2/02/1998 12/21/2007 St. Boniface, Williamsport, PA Campus Ministry, Lycoming College, Williamsport, PA Pastor, Holy Child, Mansfield, PA Pastor, St. Lawrence, South Williamsport, PA Pastor, St. Boniface, Williamsport, PA Leave of Absence Removed from ministry Dispensation from clerical state Summary On February 28, 1997, a 33 -year-old male reported to the Diocese of Scranton that he had been sexually abused by Father John J. Tamalis in 1976 when he was 13 years of age. He stated that Tamalis furnished alcohol to him and performed oral sex on him. On March 10, 1997, Tamalis was sent for an evaluation wherein he admitted that he probably abused nine boys/young men. The Vicar for Priests was advised by professional staff that there was likely far more than nine victims. Additional victims subsequently came forward to the Diocese to report that they were sexually abused by Tamalis. However, the statute of limitations had expired. The Diocese offered to assist with counselling services for the victims. On December 21, 2007, Tamalis was dispensed from his obligations to the priesthood by Pope Benedict XVI. 871 Reverend Virgil B. Thetherow Biographical Information YEAR OF BIRTH: YEAR OF DEATH: ORDINATION: 1964 N/A June 29, 2002 Employment/Assignment History ASSIGNMENTS: 1/23/2015 None Dispensation from clerical state Summary On July 1, 1998 Father Virgil B. Tetherow was a professed member of the Franciscan Friars of the Renewal in New York and known as Brother Gabriel Francis Tetherow. He communicated with Bishop James C Timlin about setting up a religious community within the Diocese of Scranton. Timlin agreed and on February 1, 2001 the establishment of the Servants Minor of St. Francis was approved. Timlin assisted Tetherow with his ordination at Our Lady of Guadalupe in Denton, Nebraska. Upon his ordination, Tetherow was incardinated within the Diocese of Scranton. After his ordination, Tetherow was never given an assignment in the Diocese, but was allowed to reside within the Diocese. In January, 2005, it was brought to the attention of the Pocono Mountain Regional Police that child pornography was found on a computer at a rectory within the Diocese. The police interviewed Tetherow and he admitted to downloading the child pornography. Tetherow was arrested and removed from ministry on March 24, 2005. He pled guilty to criminal charges and received a probationary sentence. Complaints began to come in from the Diocese of Harrisburg that Tetherow had opened a church in York County after his faculties had been removed. Tetherow was thereafter dismissed from the clerical state by the Holy Father on January 23, 2015. 872 Reverend Robert M. Timchak Biographical Information YEAR OF BIRTH: YEAR OF DEATH: ORDINATION: 1965 N/A June 27, 1992 Employment/Assignment History 7/1992 - 7/1994 Asst. Pastor, St. Mary of the Immaculate Conception, 7/1994 - 7/1996 7/1996 - 7/1998 7/1998 6/2000 - 7/2006 - 7/2006 7/2006 7/2007 - 7/2007 - 4/2009 4/04/2009 1/24/2014 Wilkes -Bane, PA Director of Religious Formation, Seton Catholic High School, Pittston, PA Director of Religious Formation, Bishop Hoban High School, Wilkes -Bane, PA Holy Savior, Wilkes -Bane, PA Asst. Pastor, Annunciation, Williamsport, PA Transfiguration, West Hazleton, PA St's. Peter & Paul, Hazleton, PA Leave of Absence Asst. Pastor, St. Vincent de Paul, Milford, PA St. John Neumann, Lords Valley, PA Leave of Absence Dispensation from clerical state Summary On December 9, 2008, the Diocese of Scranton received an anonymous letter alleging that Father Robert M. Timchak was viewing / downloading child pornography. The Diocese turned over the material that was received to the Pike County District Attorney's Office. At the conclusion of a police investigation, Timchak was charged with possessing /downloading child pornography. He pled guilty and was sentenced to state prison. On January 24, 2014, Pope Francis granted dispensation to Timchak. 873 Reverend Lawrence P. Weniger Biographical Information YEAR OF BIRTH: YEAR OF DEATH: ORDINATION: 1910 1972 May 26, 1934 Employment/Assignment History 6/1934 - 9/1940 Asst. Pastor, St. Boniface, Wilkes -Bane, PA 9/1940 - 6/1941 Asst. Pastor, St. Mary Magdolen, Honesdale, PA 6/1941 - 6/1949 Asst. Pastor, St. Mary, Scranton, PA 6/1949 - 9/1951 Pastor, St. Thomas, Little Meadows, PA 9/1951 - 9/1960 Pastor, St. John, Troy, PA 9/1960 - 5/1961 Pastor, St. Mary's Assumption, Pittston, PA 5/1961 - 5/1968 Pastor, Sacred Heart, Luzerne, PA 5/19/1968 3/08/1971 Prelate of Honor Diocesan Consultor Summary On February 26, 2002, the Diocese of Scranton was contacted by an adult male who stated that he was sexually abused by Father Lawrence P. Weniger in the 1960s when he served as an altar boy. No further information was contained in the file. On June 3, 2002, the Diocese was contacted by another adult male who stated that he was sexually abused by Weniger in the 1960's. The male stated that he was seeking information and inquired about compensation for his painful memories. Bishop James C. Timlin wrote a note stating that he had a good conversation with the male Timlin wrote that he answered his questions and expressed how sorry he was. The note indicated that the male felt that compensation was sufficient for him. On December 27, 2011, the Diocese was contacted by Catholic Social Services who reported that an adult male had revealed that he had been sexually molested by Weniger in the 1960's. The male was offered assistance with counseling and the allegation was reported to law enforcement. 874 Reverend Joseph B. Wilson Biographical Information YEAR OF BIRTH: YEAR OF DEATH: ORDINATION: 1925 Unknown December 18, 1994 Employment/Assignment History 12/1994 - 7/1996 Asst. Pastor, St. Ignatius, Kingston, PA 7/1996 - 1/1998 Administrator, Ascension, Williamsport, PA 2/1998 - 7/1999 Chaplain, Marian Convent, Scranton, PA 7/1999 - 1/2000 Asst. Pastor, St. Nicholas, Wilkes -Bane, PA 1/2000 - 7/2002 Chaplain, Divine Providence Hospital, Williamsport, PA 7/03/2002 8/19/2002 Resigned Removed from ministry Summary In 1994, Father Joseph B. Wilson was known as Brother Raphael Wilson, a member of the Order of Holy Cross Province. He approached Bishop James C Timlin and requested to be accepted into the Diocese of Scranton. He was approved by the Admissions Committee. After several months of confirming his records, Wilson was ordained as a priest at 69 years of age. Handwritten notes in the file reflected that in July, 2002, the Diocese became aware that while Wilson was a Religious Brother at Holy Cross, there were allegations made that he had sexually abused two boys. Wilson admitted to abusing one of the boys and he was sent for evaluation and treatment. A confidential settlement in the amount of $250,000 was reached with the victim. 875 876