DIOCESE 0F
PITTSBURGH

587

588

 

Biographical Information

-
-


Em ployment Assignment History













 

 

 

 

Summary

 

 

589 REDACTED -- ONGOING APPELLATE
LITIGATION

Summary

 

REDACTED -- ONGOING APPELLATE

LITIGATION

590

Summary

 

 

 

REDACTED -- ONGOING APPELLATE

LITIGATION

591

Summary

 

 

 

592

Reverend James R. Adams
Biographical Information
YEAR OF BIRTH:
YEAR OF DEATH:
ORDINATION:

1935
2011

May 4, 1963

Employment/Assignment History
5/1963-2/1966
2/1966-8/1966
8/1966-5/1972
5/1972-10/1977
10/1977-9/1979
9/1979-10/1992
6/17/85-11/19/85
10/4/1992-3/31/93
3/31/1993-3/1/2003
3/1/2003

Francis Xavier, Pittsburgh, PA
Peter, McKeesport, PA
Raphael, Morningside, PA
Francis of Assisi, Finleyville, PA
Resurrection, West Mifflin, PA
St. Isaac Jogues, Elrama, PA
Leave of Absence
Leave of Absence
Leave of Absence
Withdrew/Dismissed from Ministry
St.
St.
St.
St.

Summary
On July 24, 1992, then -Father David Zubik had a telephone conversation with a young
man who accused Father James R. Adams of sexually assaulting him in the 1970's when the
victim was between eight and 12 years old and a member of St. Francis of Assisi. The victim
said that Adams had touched his genitals while the victim was fully clothed on at least two
occasions, both times, while Adams was driving the victim and other boys to outings. The victim
and the other boys discussed that Adams was "strange" and fought over where to be seated in
his vehicle because no one wanted to sit next to him. The victim indicated that Adams had done
this to other pre -adolescent boys as well.
In light of the allegation, Adams' ministerial faculties were withdrawn and he was sent
to St. Michael's Community in St. Louis, Missouri for evaluation and treatment. Adams left
before completing the program.
In January 2003, his faculties were withdrawn and he was permanently removed from
ecclesiastical ministry, referencing the publication of Charter for the Protection of Children and
Young People.

593

 Reverend James

L.

Armstrong

Biographical Information
YEAR OF BIRTH:
YEAR OF DEATH:
ORDINATION:

1950
2012
October

1,

1977

Employment/Assignment History
10/13/1977 - 7/07/1982
St. Elizabeth of Hungary, Pittsburgh, PA
7/08/1982 - 6/02/1985
St. Francis Xavier, Pittsburgh, PA
6/03/1985 - 6/21/1989
Resurrection, West Mifflin, PA
6/21/1989 - 2/20/1990
St. Ursula, Allison Park, PA
7/23/1990 - 6/27/1991
Holy Sepulcher, Butler, PA
6/27/1991 - 12/27/1991
Leave of Absence
10/24/1992 - 8/02/1999
St. Paul, Butler, PA
8/02/1999 - 7/23/2007
Newman Center, Slippery Rock, PA
8/02/1999 - 7/23/2007
St. Peter, Slippery Rock, PA
7/24/2007

Administrative Leave

Summary
According to a "File Synopsis" contained in records subpoenaed from the Diocese of
Pittsburgh, a file was opened on Father James Armstrong on February 16, 1990. That synopsis
and attached documents reflected that there was an allegation that Armstrong gave homeless
boys from Pittsburgh drugs, alcohol, and money in exchange for sex.
In May 1991, Armstrong was sent to St. Luke Institute in Maryland for evaluation.
Residential treatment was recommended and the Diocese placed Armstrong on administrative
leave. Armstrong was granted a leave of absence for health reasons on June 27, 1991. He was
admitted to St. Michael Center in St. Louis for residential treatment in July of 1991 and was
discharged on December 27, 1991. He completed his aftercare program in December, 1993.
A confidential memorandum authored by Rita Flaherty, Diocesan Assistance
Coordinator, indicated that a victim contacted the Diocese on September 30, 2009 and requested
counseling. He reported that he had been abused by several priests in the course of his life,
including a priest whom he knew as "Father Tom." The male stated that his father was a heroin
addict and his mother was a prostitute. He eventually ran away from home and became a "street
kid." He said he was struggling to put the pieces of his abuse together. Flaherty asked the male
to put his allegation in writing to the best of his ability.

The male's therapist subsequently indicated that he was sure that something happened
to the male; that the names, places, and other information was very specific. The therapist
594

 Summary
advised that the incidents invovlved "sex for pay" and occurred when the male was 14 to 15
years old.
Within the Diocesan records was a letter dated August 3, 2011 informing Armstrong of
the sexual abuse allegations against him. The letter that the victim wrote to the Diocese dated
January 22, 2010 was attached and referred to Armstrong as "Father Tom." The victim indicated
that he was introduced to him when he was 16 years old in the winter of 1985-86.
According to the victim, Armstrong would drive him [the victim] and a "hustler" far out
Route 28 to Route 8, the Red Belt, toward Shaler Township up a winding road, always late night
around 11:00 PM to midnight. In his letter, the victim wrote that Father Tom had them do
various violent sex acts like calling him degrading things while he gave them oral sex. They
beat his body, slapped his face, and spanked him too. This lasted for a couple of years.
In the period following his placement on administrative leave, there was correspondence
between Armstrong and the Diocese for approximately four years, until 2011, which reflected
he was still receiving treatment in Maryland. Armstrong died in 2012.

595

 Reverend John M. Bauer
Biographical Information
YEAR OF BIRTH:
YEAR OF DEATH:
ORDINATION:

1947

N/A
May 5, 1973

Employment/Assignment History
5/22/1973-10/02/1978
10/02/1978-1/17/1988
6/17/1988-6/27/1994
6/27/1994-2/18/1998
2/18/1998-1/20/1999
1/20/1999-6/04/2006
1/20/1999 -present
6/04/2006 -present

Parochial Vicar, St. Joan of Arc, South Hills, PA
Parochial Vicar, Immaculate Conception,
Washington, PA
Pastor, Immaculate Conception, Washington, PA
Pastor, Good Samaritan, Ambridge, PA
Leave of Absence
Administrator, Our Lady of Consolation,
Carmichaels, PA
Pastor, St. Hugh, Carmichaels, PA
Pastor, Our Lady of Consolation, Carmichaels, PA

Summary
Documents subpoenaed from the Diocese of Pittsburgh revealed that an allegation of
sexual abuse by Father John Bauer first surfaced when it was included in another complaint that
was lodged against Father Michael Romero.
A memorandum to the file dated October 13, 2013 from Rita Flaherty, Diocesan
Assistance Coordinator, indicated that, during a telephone conversation with the male, he told
her that Romero and Bauer would provide him alcohol and encourage him to drink it. He stated
that he has suffered with alcoholism for years while he was trying to suppress the memories of
sexual abuse as a minor child. He stated that he attributes the majority of his problems with
alcohol to his early exposure to alcohol by Romero and Bauer.

This memorandum also stated that Romero and Bauer would engage him and the other
young boys in conversation about masturbation a lot. The male stated that he remembers Bauer
taking him to a wrestling tournament on Columbus, Ohio along with two other students. They
were all drinking alcohol as they drove.
The victim reported that Bauer would "wrestle" with him but maintained that there was
no genital contact. He found this to be strange that Bauer would want to wrestle with all the
boys since he was not a wrestling coach or was not really involved in the wrestling program.

The victim asked for assistance with counseling to help him deal with his repressed
issues of sexual abuse. Flaherty told him that she would contact her counterpart in Florida, where
596

 Summary
the victim was living, and would forward some referral information to him. Flaherty also asked
him to make a written statement and told him that she would be obligated to share this
information with the Washington County District Attorney's Office.
On October 17, 2013, Flaherty sent a follow up e-mail to the victim, providing him with
contact information for a local counselor. She also asked him to make a written statement
outlining his allegations because the Diocese wanted want to follow up with Bauer and would
like to have the written statement to discuss with him.
In a memorandum to the file dated October 17, 2013, Flaherty outlined a meeting that
she, Bishop William Waltersheild, Father Mark Eckman had with Bauer to address the
allegations. Bauer stated that he recalled the victim and that he remembered him as one of the
young boys who would work out in the "wrestling room." Bauer said he remembered wrestling
with some of the boys on occasion in the "wrestling room." Bauer stated he would often "join
them" since he enjoyed doing a good workout.

Bauer was specifically asked about the trip when he took three young boys to Columbus,
Ohio and provided them alcohol. Bauer initially denied taking this trip but then then recalled
this trip did occur. Bauer denied providing the boys alcohol in their car ride and suggested that
maybe they had their own alcohol that they were drinking but he was unaware of that happening.
Bauer also suggested that the victim may have mistaken him for the deceased Romero who was
also assigned to the parish at the same time. Bauer stated that some of the boys would ask him
to provide them alcohol but that he never did.
The victim's allegation was forwarded to the Washington County District Attorney's
office on August 5, 2014.

597

 Reverend John E. Brueckner
Biographical Information
YEAR OF BIRTH:
YEAR OF DEATH:
ORDINATION:

1915
1960

June 16, 1940

Employment/Assignment History
2/20/1940 - 9/6/1944
Immaculate Conception, Pittsburgh, PA
9/7/1944 - 9/11/1947
St. Joseph, New Kensington, PA
9/11/1947 - 4/6/1949
St. Mary and New Castle Hospital, New Castle, PA
4/7/1949 - 11/7/1951
St. Mary, Beaver Falls, PA
11/ 8/1951 - 6/13/1956
St. Lawrence, Pittsburgh, PA
6/14/1956 - 5/27/1959
Annunciation, North Side, PA
5/23/1959 - 10/2/1960
St. Luke, Carnegie, PA
Summary
The Diocesan records contained a memorandum dated May, 4, 2016 that was written by
Father William J Waltersheid. He reported that a woman had contacted the Diocese of
Greensburg to report that her husband suffered abuse at the hand of a Catholic priest when he
was only a child. Prior to the creation of the Diocese of Greensburg on March 10, 1951, the
parishes in Armstrong, Fayette, Indiana, and Westmoreland counties were encompassed by the
Diocese of Pittsburgh.

According to the memorandum, the woman stated that in 2002 her husband informed
her that he had been abused by a priest from St. Joseph sometime between the years of 1947 and
1951. He stated that the abuse occurred in the priest's car after they saw a baseball game
together. She could not recall the name of the priest who abused her husband.
A search of Diocesan records revealed that Father Brueckner and Father Stewart were
assigned to St. Joseph during this time period.

On May 6, 2016, the Diocese sent a confidential memorandum to the Westmoreland
County District Attorney's Office, reporting that sometime between 1947 and 1951, a catholic
priest stationed at St. Joseph Church abused a boy "just going into puberty." The memorandum
provided a list of priests who were assigned to St. Joseph. Brueckner and Stewart' s names were
contained on the list. The letter also mentioned a May 3, 2016 e-mail communication that had
previously been sent to the District Attorney's Office. However, the Diocesan files do not
contain a copy of this e-mail.

598

 It does not appear that the Diocese of Pittsburgh took any further action in connection
with the allegation.

599

 Reverend Leo Burchianti
Biographical Information
YEAR OF BIRTH:
YEAR OF DEATH:
ORDINATION:

1939
2013
1964

Employment/Assignment History
5/27/1964-8/21/1966
8/22/1966-6/09/1968
6/10/1968-5/21/1973
5/22/1973-1/24/1979
1/25/1979-11/21/1980
11/22/1980-2/12/1981
2/13/1981-12/03/1981
12/04/1981-4/12/1993
4/12/1993-1/30/1995
1/30/1995
1/31/2003

St. Joseph, Natrona, PA
Immaculate Conception, Bloomfield, PA
Our Lady of Grace, Scott Township, PA
St. James, Sewickley, PA
St. Philip Neri, Donora, PA
Leave of Absence, health reasons
St. Rosalia, Greenfield, PA
St. Joseph, West Aliquippa, PA
Leave of Absence, health reasons/administrative
Retired
Withdrew from ministry

Summary
Records subpoenaed from the Diocese of Pittsburgh, including a confidential
memorandum dated May 10, 2012, medical records, and victim files, reflected that from
approximately 1967 to 1993, Father Leo Burchianti was alleged to have had inappropriate
contact with at least eight young boys. These allegations included but were not limited to
Burchianti: having anal or oral sex with them; inappropriately touching them; making suggestive
comments to them; providing alcohol to them; allowing them to use drugs in the rectory; and
inviting some to stay overnight to sleep in his bed with him.
In February/March 1979, a minor boy was asked by Burchianti to go over to the parish
house by himself. While there, the boy was given alcohol by Burchianti and told by Burchianti
that "he gets very horny after one beer." Burchianti also stated, "Love the one you're with, if
you're not with the one you love, and since you are not with the one you love (your girlfriend),
he should love the one he was with." Burchianti then dimmed the lights in the room. A fuse
then blew and the boy used this opportunity to leave the room very quickly. As he was leaving,
he received the impression that Burchianti was going to kiss him, but Burchianti did not.
In the summer of 1979, another minor boy was given alcohol by Burchianti and on two
distinct occasions, was told by Burchianti that he "wanted to rape" the boy. In September 1979,
while the boy was at the rectory doing work for Burchianti, Burchianti attempted to go into the
bathroom with the boy. He later placed his hand under the elastic in the boy's shorts. When he

600

 Summary
told Burchianti not to tickle him, Burchianti responded, "I'm not trying to tickle you, I'm trying
to grab for something." The boy quickly left.
In January 1980, another minor boy was having personal issues and was persuaded to
talk to his parish priest. It was agreed that he would talk to Burchianti and spend the night at
the rectory with him. While in Burchianti' s room, he saw a picture of a young boy,
approximately 17 years old. Burchianti pointed to the picture and said, "You see that young boy,
he is making $20.00 to $25.00 a hit and you could be too." Burchianti then stated that he had
pornographic films and he could show them to the boy. As they both got ready for bed and
undressed to their underwear, Burchianti sat next to the boy on the bed and grabbed at the boy's
genital area. The boy hit Burchianti and Burchianti made the boy promise to not tell his mother.
The boy then got into the bed and Burchianti got in beside him. The boy immediately got out
of the bed and slept on the couch. The next morning, Burchianti asked the boy if it would help
him if Burchianti made love to him. The boy, in response, twisted Burchianti' s arm behind his
back and told him not to try anything ever again.

On several unknown occasions in 1979/1980, another minor boy was involved in a
number of incidents with Burchianti. On one occasion, Burchianti offered to watch 'films" of
guys or girls with him, but Burchianti noted that he preferred to watch guys. On another
occasion, Burchianti stated "you could have just as much fun with a man as with a woman" and
then asked the boy, "you mean to tell me you wouldn't take a blowjob from a guy?" Burchianti
then told the boy that he would like to kiss him. On another occasion, Burchianti told the boy
that he was his "secret admirer" and that he "wanted to rape him." The boy reported that
Burchianti provided him alcohol several times.
In the early 1980s, a 12 -year-old boy alleged that he was kissed and groped numerous
times by Burchianti, while Burchianti was assigned to St. Joseph.

It should be noted that on October 26, 1980, Burchianti admitted to all of these
allegations except the "ones concerning abuse."
In 1985, a mother of a minor boy informed Father Nicholas Dattilo that Burchianti had
made sexual advances toward her son in 1977. Burchianti reportedly told her son that they
should go to bed together. The boy told his mother about this incident in 1982.

In November 28, 1990, a 30 -year-old adult male (hereinafter referred to as John Doe 1)
confronted Burchianti at his home about being sexually abused by him when the male was 14
years old. John Doe 1 was encouraged by his therapist to meet with Burchianti to obtain closure
and so that he could be assured that Burchianti was receiving therapy for his "problem."
Burchianti assured John Doe 1 that he was receiving therapy. According to John Doe 1, the
sexual abuse included Burchianti providing and receiving oral sex from him for a period of a
year and a half starting in approximately 1974. During this time, Burchianti was assigned to St.
Joseph.

601

 Summary
On November 29, 1990, Father Theodore Rutkowski included a handwritten letter in
Burchianti' s file. That letter concerned his conversation with Burchianti about Burchianti' s
meeting with John Doe 1 the night before. Rutkowski stated at the end of his letter that:

Besides the usual assurances of our support, I advised . . . Burchianti that,
legally, the statute of limitations had long since expired and that he should direct
all contact from [John Doe 1 's] family to me [Rutkowski]."

Nothing more was done at the time.
On April 6, 1993, then -Father David Zubik and Father Robert Guay met with another
victim (hereinafter referred to as John Doe 2) who stated that from the ages of 13/14 (from
approximately 1976 or 1977) to age 21, he had engaged in oral and anal sex with Burchianti.
John Doe 2 was initially referred to Burchianti by his father to discuss John Doe 2 having been
being sodomized by another young boy. John Doe 2 stated that the abuse with Burchianti
occurred approximately 200-300 times while Burchianti was assigned to St. Philip's in Donora
and then approximately 20-30 times while Burchianti was at St. Joseph. John Doe 2 stated that
he was coming forward now with the allegations because he saw Burchianti recently and it
caused these memories to resurface.
On April 12, 1993, Zubik and Guay met with Burchianti to inform Burchianti of the
allegations made by John Doe 2. Burchianti admitted to having had a sexual relationship with
him over the years, but disputed the number of times it occurred. As a result of the meeting,
Burchianti resigned as pastor of St. Joseph, effective immediately and then requested a leave of
absence for health reasons. On April 13, 1993, Burchianti was admitted to St. Francis Hospital.
On May 6, 1993, Burchianti was admitted to St. Michael's for assessment and treatment

Ultimately, on March 18, 1994, a signed settlement agreement for $15,000 was reached
between the Diocese and John Doe 2.
On April 16, 1994, Burchianti asked the Assessment Board and Clergy Task Force to
consider his request for reassignment. On August 29, 1994, the report of the Ministerial
Assessment Board unanimously recommended that Burchianti not be given any assignment in
the diocese. On September 22, 1994, Burchianti asked Bishop Wuerl to be reassigned
somewhere within the diocese. On September 29, 1994, Bishop Wuerl informed Burchianti that
given the recommendation of both the Assessment Board and the Clergy Task Force, his request
would not be granted and no assignment would be given to him. On October 18, 1994,
Burchianti requested early retirement "for reasons of health," which was ultimately approved.
On October 27, 1994, Zubik sent a letter to Bishop Donald Wuerl which referred to
"Retirement Request: Reverend Leo R. Burchianti" The letter stated:

Attached you will find a draft letter granting Father Leo Burchianti early
retirementfrom active ministry for reasons of health. I purposely did not indicate
any reference to the possible arrangements for his work with the retired priests
602

 Summary
St.
John Vianney Manor nor his residence there. In light of the
recommendation made by the Assessment Board, I feared this might appear to
be an assignment. Because I indicated a reference in the letter to being in contact
with me, I feel it would be better to work out the details of his work and residence
at St. John Vianney with both Father Burchianti and Sister Joyce. If you feel the
letter needs to be more explicit in this regard, I will make the appropriate
changes.

at

Burchianti began residing at St. John Vianney Manor on February
there until at least 2012.

1,

1995 and remained

On January 16, 2003, Father Young wrote to Burchianti, informing him that with the
publication of the Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People by the United States
Conference of Catholic Bishops, and with the approval by the Holy See of the Essential Norms
for Diocesan/Eparchial Policies Dealing with Allegations of Sexual Abuse of Minors by Priests
or Deacons, he was being permanently removed from ecclesiastical ministry. Young also told
Burchianti, "Given this significant development, I would ask that you write Bishop Wuerl
indicating that you are withdrawing from priestly ministry."
On September 21, 2007, John Doe 1 met with Rita Flaherty, Diocesan Assistance
Coordinator, regarding the sexual abuse he endured by Burchianti, which was discussed above.
He told Flaherty of the sexual abuse that occurred when he was in seventh and eight grades and
that these assaults occurred in the rectory, in Burchianti' s room and car. Joe Doe 1 also recalled
being taken to the seminary pool during this time frame, where he would see other boys from
his class. These boys came to the pool with Father Bob Castelucci and Father Rudy Smoley,
friends of Burchianti. He stated that the "priests would make statements to each other, bragging
about the boy that each of them brought."
On September 25, 2007, Father David Bonnar, Father John Rushofsky and Flaherty, met
with Burchianti to discuss the allegations. During this meeting, Burchianti admitted to sexual
contact with John Doe 1 and "wished he could erase his past." Burchianti also admitted to being
"sexually involved with [John Doe 1
mother for 6-8 months" and that he along with
Castelucci and Smoley, would take young boys to the seminary pool and brag to one another
about them.

On June 10, 2008, the Diocese provided John Doe
was receiving as a result of this abuse.

1

with for $24,000 for counseling he

During his tenure as a priest, Burchianti appears to have been evaluated and treated at
St. Luke's and/or St. Michael's Institute on at least three separate occasions in 1989, 1993 and
2012 for "inappropriate relationships with male minors." Burchianti died in 2013.

603

 Reverend Robert Castelucci
Biographical Information
YEAR OF BIRTH:
YEAR OF DEATH:
ORDINATION:

1938

N/A
May 9, 1964

Employment/Assignment History
5/27/1964-3/07/1965
5/08/1965-5/21/1973
5/08/1965-5/21/1973
5/22/1973-5/29/1974
5/30/1974-6/29/1981
6/30/1981-12/09/1994
12/09/1994-7/27/1999
7/28/1999-3/25/2002
3/25/2002

Rosalia, Greenfield, PA
Joseph, Coraopolis, PA
Martha, Groveton, PA
Patrick, Canonsburg, PA
Mary of Mt. Carmel, Braddock, PA
Lawrence, Hillsville, PA
Leave of Absence
Administrative Leave
Withdrew from active ministry
St.
St.
St.
St.
St.
St.

Summary
Documents obtained by subpoena from the Diocese of Pittsburgh show that Father
Robert Castelucci is alleged to have engaged in inappropriate sexual conduct with several
minors throughout his active ministry. The Diocese determined the allegations to be credible
based on one victim's knowledge of Castelucci' s anatomy, and Castelucci' s psychological
evaluation at St. Luke Institute. Despite having knowledge since 1994 of Castelucci' s sexual
abuse of children, the Diocese did not remove him from ministry, instead initially allowing him
to take a leave of absence for personal reasons. Eventually, they requested Castelucci to
voluntarily withdraw from the active priestly ministry in March 2002.
The first victim met with Fathers Robert Guay, David Zubik, Joseph Karabin and Rita
Flaherty, Diocesan Assistance Coordinator on October 27, 1994. The victim stated that
Castelucci molested him at the St. Mary rectory and in Castelucci' s car. The victim said the
abuse occurred from age 13 or 14 until age 17 in the 1970's. The victim alleged that sexual
activity with Castelucci included masturbation, oral sex and one attempt at anal sex. He stated
that he was a "troubled" youth at the time of the abuse. He reported that Castelucci gave him
money and cigarettes.

The victim initially sent a letter to Castelucci on October 22, 1994, and wanted to speak
with Castelucci regarding the abuse. In that letter, the victim stated, "I was 13 or 14 when you
talked me into masturbation parties only to offer me money later." According to a letter written
by Bishop Donald Wuerl to the Vatican on May 6, 2005, after the victim confronted him,
Castelucci reportedly called the victim and stated

604

 Summary
not to get diocesan officials involved in the matter, and told [the victim] that he
would never have gotten sexually involved with him had he known how much
difficulty it would have caused him.
Castelucci also allegedly reminded the victim that he was "a messed up young man already
when he had met him."
The Diocese determined the allegation was credible due to the victim having detailed
knowledge of Castelucci' s anatomy. Based on the information available, it does not appear that
the Diocese notified law enforcement of the allegations. The victim eventually filed a civil
lawsuit along with 32 other individuals, which resulted in a $1.25 million settlement in October
2007. Diocesan records revealed that this victim signed a "Settlement Agreement and Release"
document on October 3, 2007. The Diocese later forwarded three checks to the victim's
therapist: One in 2008 for $1,130; one in 2010 for $1,820; and one in 2011 for $,1620.

Information about an additional victim was contained in materials obtained from the
Diocese pursuant to subpoena. This additional victim appears to be a brother of the first victim.
According to the civil lawsuit documents, this victim "was a minor child approximately eight
(8) years old when he was first sexually abused by Father Robert Castelucci." Based on the
victim's date of birth and his approximate age, the abuse would have occurred in approximately
1978. It does not appear that the Diocese provided any further information regarding this victim
or his alleged abuse. This victim also signed a "Settlement Agreement and Release" document
on October 3, 2007.
In October 1994, Castelucci reluctantly agreed to go to St. Luke Institute for a
psychological evaluation. According to a document entitled, "Reverend Robert Castelucci Confidential File Chronological Review," St. Luke Institute recommended that Castelucci
undergo testify to determine, inter alia, "to what degree this includes sexual attraction to
adolescents." According to a letter in Castelucci' s file from Bishop Wuerl dated February 28,
1996, Castelucci was unwilling to accept the recommendation for inpatient treatment, instead
citing that he needed to take care of his ailing mother. Castelucci requested three extensions of
his personal leave of absence. In May 1999, Castelucci requested an early retirement, which
Wuerl "did not grant since he did not meet the requirements in place for such a request."

Shortly after Castelucci requested an early retirement, the Diocese received information
in July 1999 regarding an allegation that Castelucci had given a 17 -year -old male a pornographic
video, and performed oral sex on him. This third victim lived in Ohio where Castelucci moved
after he took an extended leave of absence to care for his sick mother. Castelucci was placed on
administrative leave. The Diocese reached out to the victim's family regarding assistance with
counseling. According to the Diocese, they never received a response from the victim's family
In February 2000, Castelucci notified the Diocese that "the authorities of Columbiana County,
Ohio had decided not to press any charges against him."

According to a memorandum dated February 12, 2002, a fourth victim met with
Diocesan officials to report a sexual conduct allegation against Castelucci. The victim alleged
605

 Summary
that the abuse occurred while he employed as an organist at St. Mary, beginning in May or June
1974, when he was approximately 17 years old. The victim stated that almost immediately upon
his arrival, he began to experience "touchy feely" behavior from Castelucci. He said that
Castelucci would come up behind him, grab him, and put his hands down his pants. He would
also attempt to kiss him.
The victim recalled that in July 1974, Castelucci offered him alcohol in the rectory living
room. Castelucci came over to him and began to caress his legs, shoulders and chest, eventually
performed oral sex on him. These incidents occurred off and on while the victim was employed
at Mt. Carmel, ending in June 1977. He also recalled an incident where he stayed in the rectory
to watch Castelucci' s dogs while he was out. Castelucci returned around two in the morning,
and suggested that the victim stay the night. He agreed to stay in the guest room, but Castelucci
came into the room several times during the night to "bother him." The memorandum does not
detail what "bother" involved.

The victim further stated that there were multiple times that he told Castelucci he wanted
the sexual activity to stop, but Castelucci made it known that sexual activity was expected as a
condition for employment. The victim recalled, "Father Castelucci saying on more than one
occasion that 'this is why I hired you' or 'you can just leave your keys then.- The victim
mentioned that he was paid by check for playing the organ but was also given cash.
The victim also said that his friend (the first victim mentioned in this report) told him
that Castelucci abused him. He also mentioned another young male who lived in the rectory for
two months until he eventually grew tired of the sexual arrangement and moved out. According
to the victim, this male "had a suspect background and who implied to (victim's name) that his
living arrangement was in exchange for sexual favors provided to Father Castelucci."

The victim recalled nearly walking in on Castelucci and another unknown boy as they
were about to engage in some type of sexual activity. The victim did not know the identity of
this boy. Finally, the victim said that Burchianti would frequently visit St. Mary along with a
"TOR priest" named "John," and both were also "touchy feely with him." (See narrative
regarding Leonard Burchianti in this report for further information regarding sexual abuse
allegations against him.)
Diocesan officials offered counselling which the victim declined. They then advised the
victim that if he became aware of other individuals who have been harmed by Castelucci he
should direct them to the clergy office so assistance can be offered to them.
In March 2002, after the fourth victim's allegation, Diocesan officials met with
Castelucci and indicated that it was in his best interest to voluntarily withdraw from ministry
rather than be subjected to a canonical process. On March 25, 2002, Castelucci submitted a
handwritten letter to Bishop Wuerl withdrawing from active ministry. On the same date,
Castelucci sent a second letter to Bishop Wuerl which denied all allegations against him.

606

 Summary
A fifth victim sent an allegation to the Diocese in October 2002. The victim claimed that
in the 1970's when he was a 12 or 13 -year -old altar boy, Castelucci had asked his mother if he
could stay overnight at the St. Joseph rectory. According to the victim, his mother readily agreed
since his father was no longer around. She wanted him to spend time with a man, particularly a
priest for a positive role model. The victim had heard from other altar boys that Castelucci had
"dirty movies" that some of the boys watched. During the overnight stay, the victim asked to see
Castelucci' s "dirty movies." Castelucci allegedly responded, "he [the vicimt] would have to
allow Father Castelucci to put his hand in a 'dirty place' on [victim's name] before he would
show him a movie." According to the victim, he declined. However, the victim stated that he
awoke to Castelucci masturbating him while the two of them slept in the same bed. The victim
also stated that he remembered "seeing Father Castelucci standing by the window in the room
and saying, 'What have I done[?]

-

The Diocese offered to assist with the victim's counseling costs, which he initially
declined. However, he called in November 2002 to accept the offer. On November 22, 2002, the
Diocese issued two checks: One to the victim totaling $2,550 and the other to the provider of
the therapy the victim was receiving (Clover Psychological Assoc.) for $494. The Diocese noted
that the victim's allegation were credible, and the Allegheny County District Attorney's Office
was allegedly notified. However, it does not appear that there were any documents with the
victim's actual name in the file containing the written allegation.

Father David Bonnar and Flaherty, wrote to Castelucci on February 10, 2009 to explain
the Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People promulgated in 2002. Bonnar and
Flaherty reassured Castelucci, "Please understand that all of these allegations are past the
current Statute of Limitations and therefore time barred."

Another victim called Flaherty in May 2011 to report sex abuse by Castelucci at St. Mary
when he was 15 or 16 in the late -1970s. The victim would not go into much detail, but stated
that the alleged incident happened once when he was alone with Castelucci. The victim
remembered that Castelucci took him to see an "X" rated movie. On another occasion when the
same victim spoke with Flaherty, the victim's friend, who had also been molested, was present.
The victim mentioned that he did not believe that his friend was inclined to come forward
because he was mentally slow. Flaherty told the victim that the Diocese would be happy to help
his friend if he decided to come forward.
In January 2015, Flaherty sent a letter to the victim's former therapist which indicated
that the Diocese was moving towards a more time -limited approach to the therapy they would
cover. The Diocese would offer a limitation of three years or 90 sessions for alleged victims. In
this victim's file there were three photocopied checks made out to the victim's counselor in the
amounts of $190, $814 and $1,447 for therapy. An allegation with the victim's name was sent
to the Allegheny County District Attorney's Office on December 5, 2012.

607

 Reverend Mauro James Cautela
Biographical Information
YEAR OF BIRTH:
YEAR OF DEATH:
ORDINATION:

1948
2005
May 4, 1974

Employment/Assignment History
5/1974-5/1979
6/1979-8/1983
8/1983-5/1984
5/1984-1/1989
1/1989-10/1992
10/1992-2/2000
7/1998-2-2000
2/2000-8/2005

Our Lady of Joy, Pittsburgh, PA
St. Vitus, New Castle, PA
St. James, Sewickley, PA
Mother of Good Counsel, Pittsburgh, PA
St. Norbert, Pittsburgh, PA
Purification of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Ellwood City, PA
St. Agatha, Ellwood City, PA
Holy Redeemer, Ellwood City, PA

Summary
According to records subpoenaed from the Diocese of Pittsburgh, Father Mauro Cautela
was alleged to have inappropriately touched three young boys during the times that he
respectively served as pastor of Our Lady of Joy, St. Norbert, Purification of the Blessed Virgin
Mary, and Holy Redeemer. Additionally, Cautela is alleged to have used church donations and
other funds to further some of his relationships with young boys as well as to purchase
homosexual pornography on church computers.
In a confidential memorandum dated August 9, 2006, Rita Flaherty, Diocesan Assistance
Coordinator, detailed a telephone call she had with an adult male who reported that Cautela had
abused him. He stated that between 1975 and 1981, when he was about 14 years of age, Cautela
molested him multiple times while on church property and at Bear Lake in Seven Springs. The
victim alleged that he was provided alcohol on some occasions as well. The victim reportedly
brought these allegations up directly to Cautela in a voice -mail message in November 2003.
Cautela claimed that the victim asked for $20,000 in exchange for not exposing him as a
pedophile. Cautela claimed that he deleted the message because he was upset by the allegation
but reported the voicemail to Father James Young. Young said that the allegations had been
forwarded to the Lawrence County District Attorney's Office. The records revealed that an
Ellwood City Police Officer advised that a case number was never assigned to the matter out of
respect for Cautela.

On July 7, 2005, Flaherty prepared a confidential memorandum regarding a telephone
call she received from an attorney concerning possible sex abuse allegations against Cautela.

608

 Summary
Flaherty indicated that she and other representatives would want to meet with this potential
victim.
On August 17, 2005, Diocesan officials met with the victim about whom the attorney
had called on July 7, 2005 and his parents. This adult male alleged that Cautela sexually abused
him between 1998 and 2005 when he was between 12 and 19 years old. He explained that
Cautela had befriended him during a very difficult time in his life, He reported that he was
inappropriately touched repeatedly by Cautela. This victim said that Cautela first encouraged
him to begin lifting weights at a nearby gym. There Cautela would "massage" the boy to keep
him loose, touching around his body including his upper buttocks and upper leg. While lifting
weights, Cautela constantly touched the boy's muscles commenting how much progress he was
making The victim also reported that on two different trips to Hilton Head, Cautela set up
lodging to have the victim share a room and a bed with him. On one such occasion, the victim
reported that Cautela began rubbing him down as he often did but ran his hands into the waistline
of his shorts touching the top of his buttocks. The victim also reported that while on these trips
Cautela was very insistent on applying sunscreen to the victim, partially exposing his buttocks
in one instance while doing so. The victim further alleged that after he had suffered a staph
infection, Cautela insisted on checking the boy for other abscesses on his leg. While pulling up
his pant leg the victim incidentally revealed his scrotum to Cautela. After a football injury, the
victim reported that Cautela came over his house while his parents were not home. Cautela
began rubbing his leg, eventually sliding his hand up his shorts and further rubbing his groin.

The victim alleged that there were other males that Cautela was "helping" lift weights,
massaging them in the same way as him. On August 23, 2005, he sent a 10 -page letter to the
Diocese in which he detailed his abuse.

The victim claimed that Cautela had purchased weight sets, a gym membership, a
necklace, and a celllar telephone for him, gave the victim his car and paid for the insurance.
After the allegations were made, Cautela resigned from his position as pastor in August
2005 and was placed on administrative leave by the Diocese shortly thereafter in the same
month. The Diocese advised the victim and his family that the allegations were forwarded to the
Lawrence County District Attorney's Office.
On August 23, 2005, Trooper Janice Wilson of the Pennsylvania State Police ("PSP")
took the initial information from the victim, and ultimately wrote a 24 -page report of
investigation detailing the abuse. The report of investigation included a number of allegations
previously detailed above. Wilson noted the following in the narrative of the report:

In the fall of 1998 when the victim was approximately 12 years
old, Cautela and the victim developed a close, friendly
relationship after Cautela suggested that the victim begin lifting

609

 Summary
weights as a form of discipline while his parents went through a
divorce.

Prior to working out, Cautela massaged the victim's
thighs and buttocks to "loosen" the victim.

Cautela exposed the victim to homosexual pornography.
In the summer of 1999, the victim began to work at the rectory
(unspecified) on a volunteer basis.

Cautela requested the victim's help with one of the computers,
and had the victim sit on his lap while he worked. Cautela would
then massage the victim's legs, arms, shoulders, back, neck and
buttocks.
When the victim turned 14 in 2000, Cautela provided the victim
alcohol and gave him two fifty dollar bills for his birthday.
The victim noted that Cautela would never give the victim
gifts in front of anyone else.

In August of 2001, Cautela took the victim and two additional
minors to Hilton Head, South Carolina.

Prior to the trip, Cautela promised the victim that he
would have his own room, however when they got to the
condominium, they had to share a king size bed.
When the victim went to sleep in the same bed as Cautela,
he began to rub the victim's back and proceeded to fondle
the victim's genitals and buttocks under the victim's

underwear.
The victim claims to have left, and slept on the couch for
the remainder of the trip.

In the fall of 2001, the victim injured his leg, and "Cautela would
rub his leg, continuing up under his shorts, and rubbing his

groin"
The victim noted that Cautela had an extensive amount of
homosexual pornography on his computer in the rectory, and
would often have the victim delete Cautela's internet history.

610

 Summary
On August 25, 2005, the New Castle Police Department received
a complaint of unauthorized dumping in their dumpster. The trash
contained VHS tapes and DVDs of nude wrestling and
homosexual pornography, at least 23 envelopes addressed to
Cautela and a framed photograph of the victim and his two

siblings.
In addition, Wilson contacted an individual regarding his two sons. According to the
father, his two sons did not want to speak with the trooper, stating:

he could see no advantage to his sons to speak with me. He stated that what
happened was thirteen or fourteen years ago, and they didn't want to talk about
it.

Wilson also interviewed the first victim, mentioned above. According to the first victim,
Cautela took him and a friend to a cabin that belonged to a friend of Cautela's at Bear Lake near
Seven Springs. All three of them slept in the same bed because the other room was "mice
infested." The victim stated that Cautela provided them beer. When they went to bed, the victim
reported that Cautela "pulled his shorts aside and was performing oral sex on [the victim]." The
victim then rolled over, pretended to wake up and went to sleep on a lounger in the room.
Wilson also interviewed the cook/housekeeper of the St. Agatha rectory regarding
Cautela. The housekeeper stated that Cautela "often had young men up in his room even though
that was against the rules." According to the housekeeper, Cautela told her that the young men
needed to use his computer. The housekeeper also noted that the young man noted above
frequently came to the rectory in 1998 and/or 1999.
Based on Wilson's report, PSP noted three potential charges: Endangering the welfare
of children; corruption of minors; and indecent assault.
Between October and November 2005, Cautela wrote letters to the Diocese requesting
that it postpone both his evaluation at St. Luke Institute and the Diocesan Review Board process.
The Diocese accepted the proposal to defer the church-based proceedings.

According to Wilson, on December 9, 2005, the Federal Bureau of Investigation agreed
to file federal charges against Cautela for the incidents that occurred outside the Commonwealth

of Pennsylvania.
Cautela suffered a heart attack and died in 2005, however, thus concluding the criminal
investigation.

611

 Summary
On June

1,

2006, the second victim's attorney filed a civil lawsuit. The civil complaint

stated:

Although aware of Cautela's history of sexually abusing children, including the
plaintiff, the Diocesan defendants nevertheless made deliberate decisions:
a. Not to notify police;
b.

Not to notify Children and Youth Services or other civil
authorities;

c.

Not to suspend Cautela from his priestly duties and/or contact
with children;

d.

Not to warn parishioners at Holy Redeemer Church that Cautela
posed a serious risk to children; and

e.

Not to conduct an investigation to determine the identity of other
children sexually abused."

Ultimately, the second victim signed a "Full and Final Release" document on November
2, 2006, which released the Diocese of Pittsburgh of responsibility for the abuse. As part of the
settlement, the Diocese of Pittsburgh agreed to pay the victim a total amount of $250,000.

612

 Reverend Charles J. Chatt
Biographical Information
YEAR OF BIRTH:
YEAR OF DEATH:
ORDINATION:

1936

N/A
May 9, 1964

Employment/Assignment History
5/27/1964-3/27/1969
3/28/1969-5/29/1974
5/30/1974-8/23/1981
8/24/1981-7/27/1992
7/27/1992-1/31/2003
1/31/2003

St. Alphonsus, Springdale, PA
St. Anne, Castle Shannon, PA
St. Albert the Great, Baldwin, PA

Our Lady of Loreto, Brookline, PA
Leave of Absence
Withdrew from Active Ministry

Summary
Subpoenaed Diocesan files concerning Father Charles J. Chatt, including confidential,
personnel and victim files, indicate that on July 27, 1992, the father of a young man reported his
son's sexually abuse by Chatt. These incidents occurred in either 1970 or 1971, when the victim
was in seventh or eighth grade at St. Anne. According to the Diocesan report, the father reported
that he had gone to see Chatt and had told Chatt that he (Chatt) needed to call the Diocese or he
(the victim's father) would.
That same day, Chatt met with Diocesan officials and admitted to the sexual contact
which began at St. Anne when victim one was 14 years of age. The report recited that: "Chatt
states he neverfelt 'it' was wrong, felt it was a service-later felt like their whore." The sexual
contact continued after Chatt's assignment at St. Anne's had ended because "they came to him."
Chatt advised that the "relationship" lasted during his assignment at St. Anne's and that it
(sexual contact) "tapered off' after that. He claimed that the victim would ask for money and
that the "relationship" stopped when the victim was 20 years of age.
The report further disclosed that when Chatt was assigned to St. Albert's, he had sexual
contact for a few months with a 15 -year -old from that parish. Chatt admitted this conduct during
his meeting.
Chatt denied ever having contact with anyone from Our Lady of Loreto, but admitted to
having contact with the first victim and his two brothers at Our Lady of Loreto when the boys
were over 18. Chatt submitted his letter of resignation from Our Lady of Loreto on July 27,
1992. According to Diocese -provided documents, after submitting his resignation, Chatt sought
treatment at St. Michael's Community in St. Louis, Missouri. Documents in the file indicated
that he worked at St. Michael's and at "Vianney Renewal Center" until approximately 1999.

613

 Summary
A letter in the file dated August 3, 1992 provided further details of the sexual abuse
against the first victim. The letter was addressed to Father William D. Perri of the St. Michael's
Community and was written by then -Father David Zubik.

The letter provided the details about the abuse of the first victim. It also furnished
additional details about Chatt' s subsequent statements to Diocesan representatives. The letter
indicated that Chatt confirmed for church representatives that he was "involved in sexual
relationships" with the fist victim as well as "five other youngsters under the age of eighteen in
the 1970's." He attributed his behavior to the 'free spirit" of that time when the "anything goes"
mentality was in "vogue," in addition to his own sexual weaknesses and what he described as
the "promiscuity of the adolescent boys involved."
On February 3, 1994, the first victim and his wife met with Diocesan officials. He
advised that in 1970, he was 13 years old and in the seventh grade at St. Anne school. The victim
went to Chatt, who was principal of the school, to tell him that the basketball coach, Mr. Giles,
had been fondling the genitals of many boys on the basketball team. He further reported that
Giles would also spank the boys. The victim advised that Chatt did nothing about the reported
incidents.

The victim further recalled going to the rectory to visit Chatt on many occasions after
Saturday night mass. The victim said that they would listen to the radio, have Cokes, etc. The
abuse began shortly after he reported the incidents involving Giles.
The victim reported that he knew of at least five other victims. He said that Chatt had
confessed to him about three of them and that he [the victim] was present when two others were
abused at the same time he was. This occurred in the rectory and at a cottage on the
Youghiogheny Reservoir that belonged to Father Mihock. The victim stated that there was a
lot of alcohol consumption, mostly at the cottage.

The victim described sexual acts to include, oral sex, anal sex and said that Chatt would
insert objects into his anus. The victim recalled that he and Chatt would pair up and that Chatt
would encourage the other two victims to be partners.

There were also instances of abuse within the victim's home by Chatt, who was a
frequent guest. Chatt would go up to the victim's room after he went to bed and abuse him.
The victim stated that Chatt had bought him expensive gifts, including: a dirt bike, a
drum set and hockey equipment. When he was 15, the victim told his mother about the abuse.
The victim, his mother and Chatt then went to Father Hugh McCormley for confession. The
victim's relationship with Chatt "tapered off around the age of 16." Chatt then moved to St.
Albert the Great, but the victim continued to occasionally visit Chatt.
The victim said that Chatt kept pornographic magazines in a safe in the rectory. He
recalled one magazine in particular, "Blue Boys," which contained images of young men and

614

 Summary
boys together. Chatt then moved on to his assignment at Our Lady of Loreto. The victim further
recalled seeing a pornographic video there that Chatt claimed he found in a dumpster.

The victim's wife recalled seeing nude photographs of a six -year -old girl, who lived next
door to Chatt' s parents. She said that Chatt had told her and the victim that he took showers with
the girl.
The Diocese's file indicated that on February 16, 1994, officials met with Chatt to
discuss the meeting they had had with the victim and his wife. According to the file, Chatt was
"disheartened" that the victim and his wife were "still focusing so much anger and hatred
towards him."

Documentation, including correspondence, receipts and treatment plans, indicated that
the Diocese paid for counseling for the first victim and members of his family for several years
after the allegations were reported.
In July 2001, another allegation involving Chatt was brought to the attention of the
Diocese. This victim (the third victim) reported that Chatt had fondled him on many occasions
while the victim worked in the rectory answering phones in the evening. This occurred in the
early 1980's at Our Lady of Loreto when the victim was approximately 15 to 16 years of age.
The abuse occurred one to two times per week, about every week or two, and lasted for several
years. The fondling then abruptly stopped.

The victim explained that he was part of a small group of boys that worked within the
rectory and parish. The boys were seen as "Father Chatt's favorites."

The victim recalled an incident when Chatt asked him to retrieve something from his
(Chatt' s) room. The victim found a nude photograph of one of the boys who worked at the
rectory. The victim said that, based on the photograph, he assumed that at least one of the other
boys was sexually involved with Chatt. The file indicated that the Diocese offered assistance
with counseling to to this victim.
In August of 2001, Diocesan representatives spoke with Chatt, via telephone, regarding
the incident reported in July 2001. The details of the conversation were documented in a
memorandum and contained the following information. Chatt admitted that there were occasions
that he "playfully groped" the victim, but advised that they were infrequent and denied that the
fondling occurred several times per week, off and on, for a year.

Chatt stated that he was not sexually involved with the victim. He was confronted with,
but did not respond to, questions about the nude photograph of a boy that the victim found in
the rectory. In notes of the conversation, Chatt was described as "remorseful" and concerned
that he may have hurt the victim. The report further indicated that, "Charles minimized his
behavior as being 'much less than' his behavior that ultimately led to his treatment at St.
Michael's." Chatt further expressed concern about possible legal action, but was advised that
the victim's allegation was "time barred" so no legal action could take place.
615

 Summary
The Diocese's file further documents a series of e-mail conversations with Rita Flaherty,
Diocesan Assistance Coordinator, and a fourth victim in July and August of 2003. He alleged
"sexual, moral, and mental manipulation" that occurred at St. Anne, St. Alphonsus in Springdale
and at also a cottage outside of Pittsburgh. The abuse initially occurred when the victim was 15
years old. In speaking of Chatt, the victim stated, "Due to his [modus] operandi of taking nude
photos as part of his grooming process, it is safe to say that [dozens] of individuals are affected."
"I am in contact with a family where all of the brothers were sexually abused in Castle
Shannon." Flaherty advised him in the e -mails to file a formal complaint, however nothing
appears in the file.

Following the first documented report of sexual abuse of children reported in July 1992
that occurred in 1970 or 1971 at St. Anne's Parish, Chatt resigned as pastor of Our Lady of
Loreto Parish. The parishioners were told that he had resigned for health reasons and to allow
him time to better care for his aging parents. Chatt was sent to St. Michael's Community for an
evaluation and thereafter returned to the facility for treatment where he remained for
approximately five months. At the completion of treatment, St. Michael's staff recommended
he be returned to ministry. Bishop Donald Wuerl did not honor Chatt' s request for ministerial
assignment and instead encouraged him to consider offers for assignment at St. Michael's. Chatt
began an assignment at St. Michael's where it appears he remained on staff until approximately
1999. Thereafter, it appears that he began to do "telephone work" assisting the elderly and later
became a social worker. In January 2003, at the request of the Bishop, Chatt withdrew from
ministry and the Bishop withdrew his faculties and permissions.

616

 Reverend Anthony J. Cipolla
Biographical Information
YEAR OF BIRTH:
YEAR OF DEATH:
ORDINATION:

1943

2016
October 28, 1972

Employment/Assignment History
12/06/1972-11/14/1974
11/15/1974-5/20/1975
5/21/1975-9/22/1975
9/23/1976-7/04/1978
7/05/1976-10/08/1978
10/09/1978-6/28/1983
6/28/1983-7/05/1983
12/01/1983-11/01/1988
11/01/1988-9/19/2002
9/19/2002

Parochial Vicar, St. Bernard Church, Mt. Lebanon, PA
Parochial Vicar, Immaculate Conception, Washington, PA
Parochial Vicar, St. Philomena, Beaver Falls, PA
Parochial Vicar, St. Agatha, Bridgeville, PA
Parochial Vicar, St. Francis Xavier, Pittsburgh, PA
Parochial Vicar, St. Canice, Knoxville, PA
Parochial Vicar, St. Philip, Crafton, PA (7 days)
Chaplin, McGuire Memorial Home for Exceptional Children,
New Brighton, PA
Leave of Absence
Laicized

Summary
Pursuant to a Grand Jury subpoena, records concerning Father Anthony Cipolla were
provided by the Diocese of Pittsburgh, including a confidential Diocesan file, personnel and
legal document files, victim files and files containing numerous copies of documents related to
civil litigation. As detailed further below, the Grand Jury heard testimony from two of Cipolla' s
victims, their mother and by members of the Pittsburgh Police Department who investigated the
victims' allegations.
These files and testimony reflected that during the time Cipolla served as a priest, three
different Bishops headed the Diocese. Cipolla was moved by his superiors from parish to parish,
throughout the Diocese, several times during his tenure, for a total of eight moves in a sixteen
year period.
Cipolla was first accused of sexually abusing children, specifically, two brothers who
were ages 9 (first victim) and 12 (second victim) in 1978 while Cipolla was assigned to St.
Francis Xavier. The abuses occurred in Cipolla' s bedroom in the rectory and also in a hotel room
in Dearborn, Michigan. On July 25, 1978, the victims' mother called the Pittsburgh Police
Department and criminal charges were filed. Ultimately, the criminal charges were not pursued
to a conclusion because, according to the mother, she was harassed and threatened by church
officials to drop the charges and to "let the church handle it."

617

 Summary
Members of the Pittsburgh Police Department who investigated the abuse of the brothers
testified before the Grand Jury. The Grand Jury learned that on July 25, 1978, police responded
to a residence in Upper Brighton Heights where they met the first victim and his mother. The
first victim was taken to the hospital for an examination and detectives thereafter took over the
investigation.
The Grand Jury was informed that the detectives subsequently interviewed the first
victim, with his mother and father present. During the interview, the first victim related that on
July 25, 1978 at approximately 1515 hours, he had gone to St. Francis Xavier church/rectory for
the purpose of communion instructions as communion was scheduled to take place on July 29,
1978. The victim reported that he was taken to the bedroom of Cipolla after he had answered
some questions pertaining to his catechism instructions. In the bedroom, the victim was told, "I
(Cipolla) did this to you before. I'll do this again." According to the victim, Cipolla shut all of
the curtains and told the victim to take off his clothes. Cipolla took all of his clothes off and
Cipolla placed a thermometer in the boy's mouth and stethoscope to his chest and told him he
was going to examine him again. The boy reported that Cipolla sat in a chair by the bed and he
sat on his lap while Cipolla reached around and touched the boy's penis in a squeezing motion;
first, 20 times and then 50 times. The victim stated that he knew this because Cipolla counted
every time he squeezed the victim's penis. The victim also reported that Cipolla placed his finger
inside the victim's anus at one time. The child stated that he got up when Cipolla was done and
sat on the bed. Cipolla told him that this was their secret and it would be a sin if he told anyone.
He was made to sign a paper saying he would not tell anyone. The victim reported that he
believed there was a list of names under a table in the room but he did not know what it meant.
Detectives were told by parents that when the victim came home, he seemed scared. When they
questioned him about it, he told them what had happened.
The first victim told investigators that Cipolla had done the same thing to him
approximately three weeks earlier. Cipolla had also stated, "I went through this same thing with
your brother, and the doctor would charge $60 for this."
The second victim was interviewed by the detectives and reported that he was a victim
of the same type of conduct as his brother. He believed that these incidents occurred "during
the early vacation period of the summer of 1977." He explained that after school let out for the
summer and before a trip to Dearborn, Michigan, he was told to get a physical examination.
Cipolla informed his mother that if her son came to the rectory, he would check her son's heart
and blood pressure and they would not have to spend any money. When the second victim
arrived at the rectory he was told to take off all of his clothing. Cipolla then took his blood
pressure and checked his heart with a stethoscope. Cipolla then checked him for a hernia and
the second victim was made to bend over. Cipolla checked his rectum by placing his finger into
it. When the child asked what that was for, Cipolla stated that he was checking to see if there
was anything in there. When asked why he never told his parents, he stated that he just thought
he was getting a physical examination. He further stated that the priest asked him to come to
the rectory and that he would pay him to clean up his room, but that the victim never went. The
victim noted that the price of $3.00 was mentioned.

618

 Summary
On July 25, 1978, a search warrant was executed at the St. Francis Xavier rectory.
Investigators recovered the following: 1) One stethoscope; 2) One blood pressure gauge; 3) One
thermometer; and, 4) Three 3x5" index cards containing the names of the [victims]. Although
Cipolla admitted that he "examined' the two children, he said he did it "because they had related
that they were a bit ill and he felt he was being of service for the family." When detectives asked
him why he told the youths to take off all of their clothing, Cipolla stated that he had not given
them such an instruction; instead, he claimed that when he had entered the room, "that is the
way they were." Cipolla denied placing his finger in the victim's anus and denied placing his
hand on the victim's penis.

After speaking with the mother of the boys and hearing her request to prosecute, the
detectives obtained an arrest warrant for Cipolla. However, when investigators arrived for the
preliminary hearing on August 28, the charges were dismissed. As one of the investigators told
the Grand Jury:

[I] didn't recall seeing Father Cipolla, but I do recall there was - approximately - - there was five men and it has been a while back. I don't know
if they were all attorneys or who they belonged to. But one of them approached
me and told me that the mother doesn't want to press charges and they - - to the
effect they didn't want to get the priest in any trouble or hurt the priest. Something
to that effect. And I said, 'Well, what about the boy?' And I didn't get an answer.
So I kind of asked again. I said, 'What do we want to do with the boy? He is the
one who is the victim here.' And I was kind of ignored, to be honest about it. And
the case was dropped, thrown out, whatever you want to call it, and it was
nothing that the police - - that we could do because the Magistrate went along
with it and dumped the case. So here we are today.
On August 18, 2017, the mother of the victims testified before the Grand Jury. She
recounted how her family was friendly with Cipolla, trusted him and thought that he was "a nice
man." With respect to her younger son (first victim), she described the following events when
he came home following his catechism class with Cipolla:
When he came back, his two eyes were all puffy . . . Everybody was upset because
I couldn't -- I'm asking them, 'What's wrong with you? Why are your eyes all
red? What's going on?' [The first victim] said, 'I can't tell you, mom.' I said,
well, 'You better tell me or I'm going to whoop you if you don't tell.' [The first
victim] said, 'Well, I can't because I swore on a Bible that I wouldn't.' I'm like,
`What do you mean? There's isn't anything you can't tell your mother. You know,
your mother would understand anything. So what's going on?' [The first victim]
says, 'Well, Father Cipolla gave me a physical.' I said, 'A physical?' [The first
victim] said, 'Yeah, he made me take my clothes off and gave me a physical.' And
I'm thinking, boy, they really changed things since I was going to school. They
never made us get a physical for First Holy Communication. I said, 'Why are
you crying like that?' He says, 'Because I can't tell you.'
***

619

 Summary
It took me a while to get it out of him because Father Cipolla made him sign a
paper in the Bible saying that he would not tell anyone what had happened to
him or that he even had a physical. Anyway, [the first victim] told me that Cipolla
put his finger up his behind and started playing with him. [The first victim]
called it his dingdong. He said Cipolla played with his dingdong and that sort of
thing. And then [the first victim] was like, 'I got to get out of here. My mom's
making dinner.' But Cipolla wouldn't let him leave until he signed that paper
saying I promise, I swear to God -- or how did it -- it had something to do with
God, you know, that he had to swear on the Bible that he would not tell. So that's
how I found out.

The Grand Jury learned that records from the first victim's hospital examination revealed
the presence of a lubricant on his underwear.

The mother testified that when she arrived at the preliminary hearing, she believed that
both of her boys were going to testify. She stated that even though charges had yet to be filed
for the abuse of the second victim, it was known that Cipolla had offended on both of them.
However, upon arrival, an attorney from the District Attorney's office and an attorney for the
Diocese took her into a room. The attorney for the Diocese then began "firing questions at [the
first victim and the second vitim] really fast." The second victim "had tears in his eyes" and the
first victim "was just shaking like a leaf." She stated that the prosecutor permitted the attorney
for the Diocese to interrogate both of her sons. The mother stated:
[T]the Diocese attorney was writing all this stuff down and I thought they were
going to do something with it. But the next thing I know, the big tall attorney
(Diocese Attorney) just started - - he became a bully. He was telling my kids,
`Well, look, you go into court.' He said, 'You're going to be talking - - if you
don't want to talk about it now, there could be 100 people in there that you're
going to have to talk about it in front of and we're going to tear your testimony
apart.' My kids are like, you know, and I was just as scared as they were because
how do I know what they can do? They're pushing the District Attorney around
or this guy is ignoring the District Attorney. And the District Attorney is not
sticking up for us. He isn't telling them, you know, 'Hey, don't talk to them kids
like that' or 'Don't talk to that woman like that.' He just let him say whatever he
wanted to do and he did. And he intimidated us really bad.

The mother further recounted that the Diocesan attorney was relentless regarding how
this would negatively affect her children. According to the mother:
The Diocese Attorney said, 'Don't you understand how embarrassed -- you see
them kids. You see how embarrassed they are. They're not going to want to go in
in front of a hundred people.' And they kept talking like that. They were scaring
my kids half to death and it scared me too.

620

 Summary
The mother testified that the Diocesan attorney also brought up the impact that the case would
have on the church. He asked her why they wanted to "hurt the church?" She told the Grand
Jury, however, "We weren't there to hurt the church. We were there to stop Cipolla before he
did it again with some other kids." According to the mother, the prosecutor told her that if she
signed to expunge the charges against Cipolla and he "does it again" within 10 years, "we can
bring those charges back up." She was told that "it would be kept quiet unless he committed the
crime again."
The mother also reported that one day prior to the preliminary hearing, Bishop Vincent
Leonard phoned her. Leonard told her that Cipolla "was going to go through this intensive
therapy or something like that to get his mind right and all that." Leonard told her that Cipolla
"got that way from hearing confessions and the devil, you know, influenced him." Leonard
further told her to "let the church handle it. We've got good psychiatrists. We got good doctors."
Leonard called her a total of three times stating, "Just let the church handle it . . ."
In addition to Leonard calling her immediately following the abuse and prior to the
preliminary hearing, Cipolla also attempted to get in touch with the first victim. According to
the mother, Cipolla came to their house a few times and tried to call on the telephone. Cipolla
wanted to talk to the first victim "really bad" but she wouldn't let him. The mother explained
that Cipolla was trying to convince them to drop the charges against him.

The mother further explained that her family was harassed by numerous people in the
community who believed that Cipolla was innocent and that her sons were making up the
accusations. Some of the harassment included having their car windows shot out, a tire being
slashed, an apartment window broken, the first victim being slapped, including in the face 'for
telling lies on a poor blessed priest," and receiving numerous threatening telephone calls and
letters. Due to this harassment, she and her family moved out of the state.
On October 20, 2017, the first victim testified before the Grand Jury and recounted the
details of how, on two separate occasions, he was sexually abused by Cipolla. When describing
when Cipolla placed a finger in his anus, he stated, "I felt like that there was-you know, smart
to know that - - you know, just something wasn't right about it. And then for him to make me
swear like that (not to tell anyone)." He explained that if he told anyone, "it would be an
unforgiveable sin."

With respect to the charges being dropped against Cipolla, his recollection/interpretation
as a nine -year -old child was:

I remember my mom being in tears, bawling in tears and, you know, them just
trying to make liars out of us. And I remember some compassion from some
police officers, though, you know, and them just being like, you know, they - they felt like their hands were tied. I know there was a jail in that building, too;
but I don't remember exactly what building it was. And I just remember asking
them questions as a kid would, and I was just - - I was kind of - - you know, how
kids have a tendency to block stuff out. I wasn't really bumming except for
621

 Summary
watching my mother bawling her eyes out. But I remember - - yeah, I remember
them. Just from what I understand and remember, they (the attorneys) tried to
just say, you know, they would make me look like a liar and there was nothing
we could do.
The first victim explained to the Grand Jury how the abuse affected his life. He noted his
suffering (losing his father to suicide and losing his brother who was struck and killed by a car)
and stated that he would have been able to handle it better "without [the sexual abuse] happening
to me, you know. I feel like I would've had a way more sound mind." He ended his testimony
with the statement, "God's word never returns void."

The Grand Jury also heard testimony by the second victim about his abuse by Cipolla.
He stated tha Cipolla gave him an anal exam once at the St. Francis Xavier rectory and a second
time at a hotel room in Dearborn. He ended his testimony by stating:
Basically, when a child is fooled with in any way, shape, or form, it is a lasting
injury. It is a lifelong injury. And I'm assuming some recover from fully others
never recover from. I consider myself one of the lucky ones that - - having a
stronger mind and ability to deal with adversity, but it is ongoing. I still have,
you know, my issues with authority at points; and I still have my anger issues,
but making great strides. And if there is anything that you as a grand jury can
do to ensure that you - - if you can save just one child, I have done my job. You
have done yours. Please, please protect the children. Please.

After these sexual abuses occurred and the charges were dropped, the Diocese reassigned
Cipolla immediately to St. Canice where he reoffended on another young male.
In 1988, a third victim reported that he was sexually abused by Cipolla for approximately
a four year period when he was 13 to 17 years old. Notes by Father Theodore Rutkowski dated

June 22, 1988 which were contained in subpoenaed Diocesan files, stated that the boy moved to
the Pittsburgh area when he was 12 years of age and Cipolla asked him to become an altar boy
at St. Canice. Cipolla became a father figure to him.
The third victim reported that he saw nude pictures of young boys in some files in
Cipolla' s room and that some of the boys were masturbating in these pictures; Cipolla would
give him "physicals" telling the victim that he (Cipolla) was a "missionary doctor;" that after he
showered Cipolla would insist on putting talcum powder all over his body including his genitals;
and that he would go on vacations with Cipolla, who would hug and him while they shared a
bed.
The third victim advised that in September 1987 he entered St. Paul Seminary to become
a priest but left in November 1987 because of his confused, four year relationship with Cipolla.

Documents dated July 1, 1988 contained within the subpoenaed files, indicated that the
Diocese conducted an "internal review" and concluded that the third victim's allegations "were
622

 Summary
without foundation and the matter be dropped."
allegations against Cipolla.

The police were not informed of these

In December of 1988, the third victim reported the sexual abuse to the Beaver County
District Attorney's Office.

Because of the allegations lodged against him again, Cipolla was sent by Bishop Wuerl
to St. Luke Institute for a psychiatric examination and evaluation. The staff at St. Luke's
recommended that Cipolla "not have any ministry which involves children." It was further
recommended that Cipolla report immediately to St. John Vianney Hospital in Downingtown.
Cipolla adamantly refused to go there. Wuerl informed Cipolla that he did not have to go for
treatment to St. John Vianney specifically, but that he did have to go to a "bona fide" church approved facility that they both agreed on and that he needed to do this sooner rather than later.

Cipolla refused to cooperate and insisted on going to a facility of his choosing, St.
Michael's Institute in New York City, which is an outpatient counseling center. Wuerl tried to
discourage him from going there because St. Michael's was not a church -approved facility.
Cipolla nonetheless went to St. Michael's and from it received a "glowing" evaluation
that basically disagreed with everything in the report from St. Luke's. Cipolla hired an attorney
who wrote to Wuerl requesting that he reassign Cipolla to a parish based on the report from St.
Michael's, which found no bar to such an assignment.
In a letter to Wuerl dated March 16, 1989, Cipolla indicated that he had changed his
mind and was going to cooperate. The letter said Cipolla would go to St. John's.

However, three weeks later, in a letter from Cipolla to Wuerl dated April 6, 1989, Cipolla
asked to be released from the Diocese so that he might seek another diocese in which to serve.
In reply correspondence, Wuerl indicated that Cipolla had to secure a letter from the Bishop of
the Diocese in which he wished to serve. Wuerl also told Cipolla that he (Wuerl) would have
to write to that Bishop and tell him of the sexual abuse allegations that had been lodged against
Cipolla, as well as the findings and recommendations of St. Luke's.
In a May 15, 1989 letter, Wuerl informed Cipolla that he (Wuerl) would be meeting with
his advisors to discuss Cipolla's situation including his refusal to report to St. John's and his
request to leave the Diocese of Pittsburgh. Wuerl warned Cipolla that he would not be able to
exercise his priestly ministry unless he went for the recommended evaluation. In a letter dated
June 6, 1989, Wuerl told Cipolla that he is still unassignable to pastoral ministry. In a subsequent
letter dated June 30, 1989, Wuerl notified Cipolla that he could not be reinstated until he
underwent the evaluation (at St. John's) recommended by St. Luke's. Cipolla repeatedly wrote
to Wuerl requesting to be reinstated. His requests were all denied because he continued to refuse
to go for the recommended evaluation and counseling.

While these communications were occurring, Cipolla continued to present himself as a
priest in good standing despite being repeatedly warned by Wuerl to stop doing so. On
623

 Summary
September 17, 1990, Wuerl wrote to Cipolla, and notified him that his canonical facilities had
been removed because he failed to take the actions directed. He therefore could not act as a
priest in good standing; could not conduct any public celebrations as a priest; and could not wear
priestly attire. He could not resume doing any of these things until he obtained a church approved evaluation.
In October 1992, the third victim filed a civil suit against Cipolla, the Pittsburgh Diocese
and several officials of the Diocese. The lawsuit maintained that as a result of the above -detailed
1978 sexual allegations involving the two brothers, the defendants should have known that
Cipolla was using his position as a Catholic priest to gain access to and to acquire the confidence
of others and otherwise seduce minor male children for his sexual gratification. It also alleged
that Cipolla' s superiors in the Diocese covered that up.

On March 9, 1993 an order from the Vatican called a "Signatura" ruled that Wuerl
violated Canon Law and ordered that Cipolla should be reinstated as a priest in good standing.

On March 27, 1993 Wuerl asked the Supreme Tribunal to re -open the case involving
Cipolla because there were factual errors.

On September 30, 1993 this civil lawsuit was settled out of court with an undisclosed
financial settlement.
In April 1993, Wuerl traveled to Rome in connection with the appeal to the Supreme
Tribunal. When he returned, he issued a precept reminding Cipolla that he was not to celebrate
the sacraments publicly or to identify himself as a priest in good standing. Wuerl again
instructed Cipolla to go get the recommended psychological evaluation at a church -approved
hospital or it would be considered an act of disobedience.
In September 1995, the Vatican reversed the "Signatura" and declared that Wuerl acted
properly when he banned Cipolla from ministry. Even after the "official" ruling from the Vatican
that he was no longer a priest in good standing, Cipolla continued to perform masses and to
present himself as a priest in good standing, even though he was advised in person, several times,
that he was barred from doing these things. Cippola' s appeal to the Vatican was denied in
November 1996.

Following the Vatican's September 1995 ruling, Cipolla was assigned to St. John
Vianney Manor and was told he must report for this assignment by February 29, 1996. They
reminded him again that he was not to present himself as a priest in good standing and that in
order for him to be reinstated he would have to undergo the recommended psychological
evaluation. Cipolla told Diocese officials that they could not force him to do this and not even
the pope could make him.
Wuerl repeatedly insisted that Cipolla meet with him and the other church officials, but
Cipolla kept declining to meet, offering excuses as to why he could not meet.

624

 Summary
In March 1996, Cipolla wrote to Wuerl requesting additional money. He complained
that he had not received his priestly salary since December 1995. In April 1996, Father John
Kozar wrote to Cipolla, telling him that, since he was put on leave in 1988, the Diocese had
provided him with a monthly check along with his medical insurance benefits which, to date,
then totaled $135,000. Kozar added that in return for this the church had received nothing in
the way of priestly ministry, service or cooperation and an increase scandal in the eyes of the
community. Kozar wrote:

At the present you are being provided a residence by the diocese at St. John
Vianney Manor, a residence for priest of this diocese. The cost of providing this
residence for you is $782 per month in addition to the $638 afforded you monthly
by way of the medical coverage offered for active priest[s]; namely Blue
Cross/Blue Shield coverage in the amount of $190 per monthly; Major Medical
coverage at the expense of $90 per month; dental insurance in the amount of $25
per month; and a monthly payment in the amount of $333 to the Priest Benefit
Plan in anticipation of your retirement. With all these provisions, the Church of
Pittsburgh is more than meeting your need to substances and social assistance.
In May 1996, Cipolla caught again acting as a priest in good standing, Wuerl issued
another degree forbidding him to do so and asked to meet with Cipolla. Cipolla refused claiming
medical stress.
In July 1996, Cipolla wrote Wuerl again asking for his priestly salary. By this time the
Diocese had received his tax statements (although not all of the documents requested in March
of 1996) which showed he had significant money elsewhere (because of the interest he reported)
and determined Cipolla was not "a priest in need." The Diocese therefore refused to provide
him any more money.
In September 1996, the Diocese received a letter from an individual in Warren, Ohio
which claimed that Cipolla' s parents were helping him financially and that he was performing
masses regularly in their home where he was staying part time. In November of 1996 the
Diocese also received information from several people who said that they were on a recent
pilgrimage and that Cipolla was there celebrating masses and telling everyone he was a priest in
good standing. Over the next six years numerous reports were received that Cipolla was
continuing to conduct himself in the same manner
In July 2002 Wuerl wrote to the Pope asking for Cipolla' s dismissal from priesthood.
Official approval for Cipolla' s dismissal as a priest was issued on September 19, 2002. Despite
this, in December of 2003 the Diocese received information that Cipolla was still saying masses
and acting as a priest.
In August 2015 Cipolla wrote to Bishop Zubik asking him for retirement and a monthly
stipend and pension for the time he served as a priest. Cipolla was informed in a January 2016
letter that that he did not qualify for a pension because he was dismissed as a priest.

625

 Reverend John P. Connor
Biographical Information
YEAR OF BIRTH:
YEAR OF DEATH:
ORDINATION:

1934

N/A
April 4, 1962

Employment/Assignment History
4/28/1962
1/08/1966
6/18/1966
6/18/1966
1969-1970
1970-1985
2/2002

Assistant, St. Francis of Assisi, Vineland, NJ
Assistant, St. Mary, Gloucester, NJ
Assistant in Residence, St. Rose of Lima, Haddon Heights, NJ
Faculty, Paul VI High School, Haddon Township, NJ
Assistant CYO Director of Diocese, Diocese Center
Chairperson, Bishop Eustace Preparatory, Pennsauken
Township, NJ
Removed from active ministry/retirement

Summary
Records obtained by subpoena from the Diocese of Pittsburgh, show that in October of
1984, Father John P. Connor was arrested in New Jersey for sexually molesting a 14 -year -old
child. The sexual abuse for which Connor was apprehended took place in Connor' s home in the
Diocese of Camden during the time he was a theology teacher and golf coach at Bishop Eustace
Preparatory School in Pennsauken. According to the 2005 Philadelphia Grand Jury Report,
Connor never went to trial on the charges because lawyers for the Diocese of Camden negotiated
a pretrial intervention with the Cape May Prosecutor's Office. The terms of the agreement were
that if Connor would admit to sexually molesting the 14 -year-old child, he would have the record
of his arrest erased, as long as he were not re -arrested within one year. In Connor' s Diocesan
file, a letter dated March 29, 1985 from the Office of the Prosecutor, County of Cape May to
Connor' s attorney stated:
[W]e have placed explicit reliance on the internal discipline of the institutional
church in assuring that Father Connor takes all the steps reasonably necessary
to live up to the letter and the spirit of the Participations Agreement-even after
the period of court supervision expires.

The subpoenaed Diocesan files contained several memoranda and letters from the
Southdown Institute outside of Toronto, Canada where Connor spent approximately eight
months in treatment after his arrest. The documents from Southdown indicated an assessment
that because of Connor' s problem with alcohol: "he acts out sexually with some preference to
late adolescent males." They specifically warned against giving Connor responsibility for
adolescents. In a September 3, 1985 memorandum to Bishop George Guilfoyle of Camden from
the Executive Director of Southdown specifically cautioned that "because of the incident for
626

 Summary
which he was apprehended, we would not recommend any ministry that would directly put him
in a positions of responsibility for adolescents such as a teaching situation."
In a letter dated September 11, 1985, Guilfoyle, wrote to Bishop Anthony Bevilacqua,
the Bishop of Pittsburgh asking if Bevilacqua would consider accepting Connor. Guilfoyle later
acknowledged in a letter dated September 12, 1985 that he could not keep Connor in Camden
stating; "If it were not for the matter of scandal, I would be willing to keep him here."
In a memorandum dated September 11, 1985 to Bevilacqua, Father Nicholas Dattilo
expressed several concerns about the request from Guilfoyle. Dattilo specifically pointed out
that: "If the problem is homosexuality or pedophilia we could be accepting a difficulty with
which we have had no post -therapeutic experience." He also stated in this memorandum:

If after you have talked with Bishop Guilfoyle you believe there is no serious risk
in accepting Father Connor, we will do everything we can to keep the tradition
of bishops helping bishops intact.
It should be noted that there is a hand-written note at the bottom of the memo which reads: "I
cannot guarantee that there is no serious risk." It is initialed "AJB" (Anthony Joseph
Bevilacqua) and dated September 17, 1985. Despite this acknowledgement, and after receiving
reports from Southdown. Bevilacqua agreed to give Connor an assignment in the Diocese.

According to the 2005 Philadelphia Grand Jury Report, an additional memorandum
dated September 11, 1985 from Dattilo documented his concern about bringing Connor to the
Diocese which stressed the "serious consequences of recurrence" given "the nature of the
incident for which he was apprehended." Bevilacqua initialed this memorandum and added a
note stating; "He must also be told that his pastor/supervisor will be informed confidentially of
his situation." There is no documentation regarding this September 1985 memorandum in the
file that was provided by the Diocese.
In a letter to Connor dated October 9, 1985, Bevilacqua appointed him as Chaplin to the
Catholic patients at Sewickley Valley Hospital and assigned him to reside at St. James.

However, less than a year later, in a letter dated September 5, 1986, Bevilacqua informed
Connor that he had appointed another priest as Chaplain at Sewickley Valley Hospital, and
reassigned Connor to St. Alphonsus in Wexford. Connor's new assignment gave him an
unrestricted ministry. There was no warning to the parishioners of the church that he was an
admitted child molester.
According to Philadelphia Grand Jury Report, after Bevilacqua left Pittsburgh to become
the Archbishop of Philadelphia, Dattilo revoked Connor's assignment citing "legal
complications" and suggested Connor apply to the Philadelphia Diocese since Bevilacqua had
been willing to accept Connor before. In a memorandum to Connor dated September 7, 1988,
Bevilacqua appointed him as assistant pastor of St. Matthew in Conshohocken, a parish with a
grade school. Bevilacqua encouraged Connor, among other things, to "educate youth." Once
627

 Summary
again Connor was given an unrestricted ministry and there was no warning to the parishioners
of the church that Connor was an admitted child molester.

According to the Philadelphia Grand Jury Report, Bevilacqua told the Grand Jury that
he recalled Connor calling him directly to request the new assignment in Conshohocken. He
stated that while he asked Monsignor Samuel Shoemaker to handle the appointment, he did nor
recall whether he had told Shoemaker about Connor' s history. An excerpt from the 2005 Grand
Jury Report reads as follow:
Bevilacqua and the Philadelphia Archdiocese accepted this dangerous priest
readily but did nothing to ensure the propriety of his future conduct. Father
James W. Donlon, the pastor of St. Matthew Church since March 1989,
testified to the Grand Jury that Cardinal Bevilacqua never told him about
Father Connor's arrest or that he had been treated at Southdown for abusing
alcohol and a 14 -year old boy. The Archbishop met with Father Donlon for a
half hour in February 1989 to familiarize Father Donlon with his new parish.
Rather than share information that might have aided the pastor in protecting
the children of St. Matthew, Archbishop Bevilacqua chose to say that Father
Connor was brought from Pittsburgh to be closer to his family. Moreover,
Father Donlon was given no guidance as to what activities Father Connor
should or should not participate in, even though the Southdown report that
Cardinal Bevilacqua had received explicitly recommended that Father Connor
not be put in a position of responsibility for adolescents. Since Father Donlon
received no warning from the Archbishop, he allowed Father Connor full
access to the youth of the parish. The pastor did not know to be concerned
about an especially close relationship that was developing between Father
Connor and a young boy from the parish grade school, named "Timothy."
The Grand Jury further heard that Archbishop Bevilacqua also neglected to tell

that pastor that Father Connor had a history of alcohol abuse and that
Southdown had warned that excessive use of alcohol could increase the risk
that the priest would act out sexually with adolescents. Thus, when Father
Connor continued to drink, Father Donlon did not know to be especially
concerned.
Donlon also told the Grand Jury that it was not until a newspaper reporter called him in 2002
that he became aware of Connor' s arrest for the sexual abuse of a minor. Donlon explained to
the Grand Jury that he "would have been more careful about everything" meaning Connor' s
activities and his association with the school.
The Grand Jury report went on to say that "Timothy," the child from St. Matthew in
Conshohocken to whom Connor was paying a great deal of attention, had been located and was
now 24 years old. Although Timothy did not openly admit to the sexual abuse, he claimed that
from third grade until the beginning of high school Connor took him, once a week, to the movies,
dinner, bowling and golfing and that Connor bought him golf clubs and a bike.
628

 Summary
In 1993, Connor was suddenly moved back to Camden because his 1984 victim of sexual
abuse had sued and received a settlement from the Diocese of Camden.
In 1994, it was reported that Connor (who was assigned to a church in New Jersey) was
still continuing to visit "Timothy" in Conshohocken weekly to take him on trips and give him
gifts. Monsignor Lynn called Camden Chancellor and the Archdiocese attorney to notify them
of Connor' s "imprudent" behavior, but according to the Grand Jury Report, there was still no
attempt to notify Timothy's mother that Connor was an admitted child molester.
In 1995, Father John Kelly, the parochial vicar at St. Matthew reported that Connor was
back in the parish and still in "Timothy's" life. The 2005 Grand Jury report quoted Lynn as
saying: "I told Father Kelly that all I could do was inform the Camden Diocese, as I did before,
that Connor was back in the picture with this young boy here in Conshohocken."

Included in the file for Connor that was provided by the Diocese, is a letter to Father
Ronald P. Lengwin, from Father Peter Murphy, pastor of St. Alphonsus. Murphy's letter stated
that on October 27, 2008 a man called the rectory. The caller apparently wanted the current
priest to apologize to the whole church during the homily for assigning Connor to the church
and about the terrible things Connor did. When the man was asked if he had been abused by
Connor, he said he had. Murphy told the man to call the Diocese of Pittsburgh to make the
accusation.
In a memorandum dated November 5, 2008 to Diocesan Assistance Coordinator Rita
Flaherty, Lengwin stated that he spoke to the Allegheny County District Attorney's Office on
October 27, 2008 about an allegation of sexual abuse made against Connor. There was concern
that a threat was being made against the church and was asking for help on how to deal with it.

More recently, in the files obtained from the Diocese, there is a letter to Bishop David
Zubik dated December 18, 2014 from an attorney who represented a victim who claimed that
he was repeatedly sexually molested by Connor from approximately 1986 to 1988 when he was
a 12 to 14 years of age. During that time, Connor was assigned to St. Alphonsus. The male, then
40 years old, claimed that Connor ruined his life and that Connor stole his innocence. The letter
stated that the victim suffered from trust issues, low self-esteem, suicidal ideation, alcohol abuse,
estrangement from the Catholic Church, guilt, shame, embarrassment, etc. As a result of his
suffering, the victim demanded a settlement for $1 million.
.

In a "Confidential Memorandum" to the Diocese file dated January 21, 2015, Flaherty
stated that she and Father Mark Eckman phoned Father Terry Odien, the current Vicar for Clergy
in the Diocese of Camden, to alert him of the allegations they had received. Odien advised that
Connor was out of active ministry and living in a retirement facility for priests. They also called
the Archdiocese of Philadelphia and spoke to Monsignor Daniel Sullivan to inform him of the
recent allegations. Flaherty stated, "we had little information about him [the victim] and that
we have had no contact with the alleged victim."

629

 The subpoenaed Diocesan files contain little to no information on the victim's status or
whether he was offered counseling. The Grand Jury investigation found little to no
documentation that the Dioceses of Pittsburgh, Philadelphia or Camden notified local law
enforcement or the District Attorney's office about Connor's sexual abuse.

630

 Reverend John David Crowley
Biographical Information
YEAR OF BIRTH:
YEAR OF DEATH:
ORDINATION:

1929

2006
May 29, 1954

Employment/Assignment History
6/10/1954-6/9/1968
6/10/1968-3/27/1969
3/28/1969-1/17/2003
1/10/2003

St. Elizabeth, Pleasant Hills, PA
St. Margaret, Green Tree, PA

Holy Angels, Hay, PA
Resigned

Summary
Subpoenaed Diocesan records indicate that, at the time of his release from seminary in
1954, there were reports that Father John David Crowley would need "constant supervision"
because he was "inclined to look for `loop -holes,' special privileges, etc."
In 1992, a complaint was made by a mother and her twin adult daughters, one of whom
was 16 years old at the time of victimization. Crowley was presented with the allegations in
June 1992 and a referral for a mental health evaluation at St. Michael's Community was made
in September 1992. In the interim, Crowley remained in his assigned parish. Evaluators at St.
Michael's opined that Crowley was being truthful in his denials regarding the sexual abuse of
the mother and her twin daughters and recommended outpatient therapeutic support to address
insecurities, low self-esteem and obsessive -compulsive tendencies. Upon his discharge from St.
Michael's following the one week evaluation period, Crowley was returned to his parish.
In late -2001, the mother and twin daughters renewed their complaint with the Diocese.
The 2002 Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People triggered a report of this
allegation on August 30, 2002, to the Allegheny County District Attorney's Office.
Additionally, the allegation was presented to the Diocesan Review Board. The Board found the
victims' allegations to be credible and rejected Crowley' s testimony. On December 9, 2002, the
Board recommended that Crowley be asked to resign his position as pastor and should he refuse,
that he be removed according to the norms of Canon Law. They further recommended that
Crowley be requested to retire from active ministry, that his faculties be withdrawn and that he
be asked to begin intensive counseling.

Following the recommendations, Bishop Donald Wuerl gave Crowley an option to
voluntarily resign and withdraw from active ministry, or undergo a judicial canonical process.
Crowley chose resignation and submitted the same on January 7, 2003. Wuerl permitted him to
announce to his parish that he was "voluntarily accepting an earlier retirement since he was
only two years away from submitting a mandatory letter of retirement at age 75." This was
631

 Summary
permitted, according to Wuerl, to "protect his [Crowley's] reputation in the widespread
community." Wuerl faced great scrutiny regarding Crowley' s departure by members of the
parish and the media who loved Crowley and thought there was more to the story (they believed
that Wuerl had forced Crowley out). Wuerl maintained that "Father Crowley, for reasons of his
own, asked to retire."
Crowley was notified by Wuerl on May 30, 2003, that his ministerial faculties had been
withdrawn. On June 9, 2004, the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith confirmed Wuerl's
decision that Crowley remain in retirement and that he not exercise any public ministry
Crowley died in 2006.
On July 24, 2008, Rita Flaherty, Diocesan Assistance Coordinator, prepared a
memorandum to Crowley' s file that documented a meeting with an adult male who stated that
he was sexually abused by Crowley in the 1970s when he was 11 to 12 years old. The Diocese
reported this complaint to the Allegheny County District Attorney's Office on August 13, 2009.

632

 Reverend Richard Deakin
Biographical Information
YEAR OF BIRTH:
YEAR OF DEATH:
ORDINATION:

1955

N/A
April 13, 1985

Employment/Assignment History
3/1984-6/1987
6/1987-8/1988
1988

8/15/1989
12/29/1992

Deacon until ordained; Assistant Pastor after ordination,
St. Martin, Baltimore, MD
Parochial Vicar, St. Cecilia Church and Friary, Rochester, PA
St. Francis Friary, Brookline, PA (in residence only)
Leave of Absence
Dismissed from clerical state

Summary
Documents subpoenaed from the Diocese of Pittsburgh reflected that in May 1990,
Father Richard Deakin was contacted by the Baltimore City Police Department about allegations
that he had sexually abused a 13 -year-old girl for more than a two year -period while his was the
assistant pastor of St. Martin in Baltimore, Maryland. At the time police contacted him, Deakin
was on a leave of absence from his Order and the priesthood.

Deakin was arrested on June 25, 1990. He was charged with and, in October 1990, pled
guilty to charges of second degree rape and sexual abuse of a child, who was identified in court
filings as "Jane Doe." He was sentenced to a 15 -year suspended prison sentence and five years
of probation.
Correspondence from the victim's attorneys which was included in subpoenaed
Diocesan files reflected that when the victim was 13 years old, she underwent serious surgery
to remove a tumor from her chest. During this vulnerable period, Deakin assumed a prominent
role in her life, being both her friend and confidant. He would visit her in the hospital regularly
and they became very close. "In the winter of 1985-86," Deakin began sexually abusing her.
"The sexual relationship intensified and sex occurred in St. Martin's Church, the rectory, Father
Rich's car, (redacted) home, and various other locations."
In an undated letter by Deakin which was addressed to "Most Holy Father," he described
in his own words, details of his inappropriate relationship with this young girl. He stated:

During my last year to sixteen months at St. Martins' I became progressively
more sexually involved with a teenage girl in the parish. I had become friends
with her and her family. Our relationship started by this girl and her brother
accompanying me when I went out shopping or to the movies or to the park. Our
633

 Summary
physical contact progressed from occasional playful contact to kissing and
petting to sexual intercourse.
Deakin wrote that he "[had] never forced [redacted] to have any sexual contact without
her consent" and that she "[had] initiated the sexual behavior between us as often as I did."
"We both knew that this behavior was inappropriate and wrong." He went on to say that he
believed that he and the victim "were both so emotionally needy that we overlooked what was
right and wrong" and that he "was using this teenage girl to gain a sense of power, as well as,
to feel needed by someone not as a priest but as a man."
Deakin admitted that lilt was a very sick relationship," and added that Inlo one was
aware of the sexual behavior between myself and this teenage girl." Deakin also admitted that
he never told his psychiatrist about his relationship with the victim because he "knew there were
legal consequences." Deakin' s abuse of this girl which lasted over a year and a half, continued
after he was transferred to St. Cecelia in Rochester, PA. Deakin returned to Baltimore on several
occasions, however, and would meet the victim at a motel. The relationship was finally
terminated when Deakin told the victim that he was in love with another woman whom he
intended to marry.
Shortly after Deakin ended the relationship, she became a troubled child, acting out in
school and eventually failing tenth grade. In December, 1989, she began to have nightmares
about the sexual abuse she endured. She entered counseling and revealed her relationship with
Deakin to her mother and to her psychiatrist. She became despondent and suicidal and she had
to be hospitalized.
In October 1990, she was hospitalized again and was not released until January, 1991.
She reentered the hospital again in March of 1991 for a short stay. She underwent psychotherapy
on an outpatient basis. She was eventually diagnosed with post -traumatic stress disorder and
major depression, all the result of the sexual abuse.

This victim and her mother subsequently filed a civil lawsuit.
On November 17, 1992, Father Robert F. Guay of the Diocese of Pittsburgh testified in
a deposition taken in connection with the litigation. Guay had served as the Director of the

Department of Clergy Personnel for the Diocese during the time that Deakin was transferred to
St. Cecilia. During his testimony, he stated that after the Diocese found out about the ongoing
sexual abuse of this victim, it did not investigate or inquire of anyone at St. Cecelia to learn if
Deakin had engaged in sexual misconduct with any of the children in that parish. Guay also
testified that he only learned that Deakin had been formally charged for sexual abuse of a minor
through a newspaper article. Guay said that he was not aware if anyone from the Diocese of
Pittsburgh had contacted the Archdiocese of Baltimore to find out more information regarding
the charges.
The lawsuit was settled on October 11, 1993 for $2,705,000.

634

 Reverend Ferdinand B. Demsher
Biographical Information
YEAR OF BIRTH:
YEAR OF DEATH:
ORDINATION:

1914
1983

May 25, 1946

Employment/Assignment History
8/22/1946 - 7/16/1947
St. Peter, New Kensington, PA
7/17/1947 - 6/29/1949
Christ the King, Ambridge, PA
6/30/1949 - 5/20/1951
St. James, West End, PA
5/20/1951 - 6/29/1963
United States Army
7/02/1963 - 6/06/1966
Resurrection, Brookline, PA
6/07/1966 - 6/24/1983
St. Mary of the Assumption, Pittsburgh, PA
Summary
Documents subpoenaed from the Diocese of Pittsburgh revealed that on March 18, 2002,
a victim contacted the Diocese via e-mail to report sexual abuse by Father Ferdinand Demsher.
The victim stated that the abuse occurred from 1975 to 1976 at St. Mary of the Assumption
church. The victim was approximately 13 to 14 years old at that time.

Demsher died in 1983.
According to the victim, his grandparents arranged for him to be employed at St. Mary
doing odd jobs for Demsher. One summer day, he complained of a heat rash on his inner thigh.
Demsher offered to look at the rash, and the victim remembered being in Demsher' s office in
the rectory with his pants down. He stated that Demsher had "manipulated his penis until it was
hard" and when he could no longer "stand it he ejaculated." The victim stated that he knew it
was wrong, but "he [Demsher] could cause problems for me." Demsher continued this pattern
of abuse while the victim had the heat rash.
The victim further claimed that Demsher attempted to manipulate him into sexually
touching him [Demsher] by using a ruse related to a prostate check. He explained:

[Demsher]would stick a finger into his anus and massage the prostate until he
[Demsher] would ejaculate and this would "help open his urinary tract." He
[Demsher] said I [the victim] had large hands and my long fingers could reach
the prostate muscle.

Demsher also asked the victim to massage his back thighs and buttocks to ease Demsher' s sciatic
nerve pain.
635

 Summary
One of the victim's job duties was to straighten up clutter on the second floor of the
rectory. He related:

[A] t some point I don't remember exactly how it happened but he had managed
to get me naked in his bed and was manipulating me with a hand held electrical
vibrator and after as long as I could try to hold out I ejaculated. He took off his
cloths (sic) and I ended up doing the same thing to him. This was the first time I
had ever manipulated his penis to orgasm.
The abuse finally ended when the boy started Lawrenceville Catholic High School as a
freshman. He got a different job at a country club and made excuses as to why he could no
longer visit the rectory.

The victim requested counseling from the Diocese. An internal Dioesan memorandum
dated April 4, 2002 ended with "we found [the victim's] allegation to be credible."
In May 2005, the victim contacted the Diocese again seeking assistance in the form of
counseling because of the sexual abuse he suffered. There were several documents in the file
which reflected that the victim participated in therapy. The Diocese also agreed to cover the
cost of tuition for his daughters to attend Catholic school in the Florida area.

On March 12, 2012, an individual called the Diocese to report that a male friend had
been molested by Demsher as a child in the late -1970's to early -1980's. Rita Flaherty, the
Diocesan Assistance Coordinator, gave the individual contact information to forward to her
friend. The individual provided the potential victim's first name. Diocesan documents do not
reveal that this potential victim contacted the Diocese.
In February 2015, a confidential memorandum was prepared regarding a complaint of
sexual abuse by Demsher. On February 4, 2015, a second victim met with Bishop William J
Waltersheid and Flaherty to discuss allegations of abuse. In that complaint, he advised that
Demsher engaged in sexual activity with him while he was approximately 14 years old. He
stated that the abuse occurred when he was a freshman at Central Catholic High School. The
victim explained that the first time that he went to pick up his report card from Demsher, the
victim had a cold. According to the memorandum, "Demsher told [the victim] he had been a
chaplain in the Army. (Somehow he must have implied or given the impression from that
comment that he knew how the victim] should take care of his cold.)" The victim was instructed
by Demsher to drop his pants and Demsher then began to fondle his genitals.

The second victim reported that Demsher also fondled his genitals the second time that
he had to pick up his report card. By the time he had to pick up his third report card, the victim
asked a friend to go with him. Demsher again "made the suggestion about 'examining him' 1."
In response, the victim explained that his friend was waiting outside, and Demsher did not
attempt to fondle his genitals that day. As a result of the abuse, the victim's grades began to

636

 Summary
drop, and he lost faith in the Catholic Church. He was offered counseling, which he ultimately
accepted.
In a "Confidential Memorandum" to Demsher' s file dated February 1, 2016, it was noted
that a third victim claimed to have been fondled by Demsher when he was approximately 10 to
11 years old. This victim had attended Resurrection grade school and had been an altar server
for the parish. The notes regarding the allegation did not provide any further information or
details of the abuse. On February 11, 2016, Flaherty contacted the victim again to offer him
counseling.
In February 2015, the Diocese notified the Allegheny County District Attorney's Office
that a complaint of sexual abuse by Demsher had been made to the Diocese. The Diocese stated
that the activities occurred in 1964-1965 at a church in Allegheny County.
In a "Confidential Memorandum" dated April 27, 2016, it was noted that a fourth victim
called to report sexual abuse by Demsher. In the complaint, this victim reported that Demsher
abused him in the mid -late 1960's. The memorandum did not provide a detailed account of the
abuse. The victim further advised that Demsher took him and several other boys to Wildwood,
New Jersey and provided alcohol to them on two occasions. On one occasion, another boy
started to choke on his own vomit as a result of drinking too much alcohol. Flaherty attempted
to set up a meeting with the victim to further discuss the abuse allegation, however the victim
cancelled several times. The victim indicated that although he knew it was the right thing to do,
"I am fighting with myself about doing it. I guess it is my 'Catholic guilt.- On May 20, 2016,
the Diocese notified the Allegheny County District Attorney's Office that a complaint of sexual
abuse by Demsher had been made to the Diocese. The Diocese provided the fourth victim with
financial help on September 9, 2016.

637

 Reverend Myles Eric Diskin
Biographical Information
YEAR OF BIRTH:
YEAR OF DEATH:
ORDINATION:

1948

N/A
March

1,

1975

Employment/Assignment History
3/12/1975 - 7/17/1979
St. Paul, Butler, PA
7/18/1975 - 11/26/1981
Purification of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Ellwood City, PA
11/27/1981 - 7/05/1987
Sacred Heart, Pittsburgh, PA
7/06/1987 - 1/01/1991
Diocese of Pittsburgh
1/31/1991 - 5/24/2002
Diocese of Pittsburgh
3/19/2003

Resigned

Summary
Documents subpoenaed from the Diocese of Pittsburgh indicated that in April 2002, a
complaint of sexual abuse by Father Myles Eric Diskin was made to the Butler County District
Attorney's Office. In that complaint, an adult male reported that Diskin had engaged in sexual
activity with him when he was a minor child. The abuse occurred in the mid -1970's at a church
in Butler.
In October 2002, another complaint of sexual abuse by Diskin was made to the Butler
County District Attorney's Office. In that complaint, a woman reported that Diskin had
inappropriately touched her while she was a minor child. She stated that the activities occurred
in the mid -1970's at a church located in Butler.
In June 2004, another complaint of sexual abuse by Diskin was made to the Butler
County District Attorney's Office. In that complaint, "John Doe" advised that Diskin sexually
abused him in the school, in the rectory, in Diskin' s automobile, in the sanctuary of the church
(St. Paul), and in the male's home. The abuse included fondling of the genitals and performing
oral sex. The abuse took place in 1976 to 1977 when the victim was 12 to 13 years old.
In November 2004, a complaint was made to the Diocese of sexual abuse by Diskin. A
"Confidential Memorandum" from the Diocesan Assistance Coordinator indicated that the
complaint filed by an adult male asserted that Diskin sexually abused him at St. Paul when he
was a minor.
In February 2009, a complaint of sexual abuse by Diskin was made to the Allegheny
County District Attorney's Office. In the complaint, two victims reported that Diskin sexually
abused them in the mid -1970's. Internal Diocesan records indicated that the victims would have
been approximately 11 and 14 years old, respectively, at the time of the abuse.

638

 Summary
In January 2015, a complaint of sexual abuse by Diskin was made to the Allegheny
County District Attorney's Office. In the complaint, "John Doe" advised that Diskin sexually
abused him by inappropriately touching him. The abuse took place Butler County in 1976 to
1977 when the victim was 15 to 16 years old.
In January, 2015, a complaint was made to the Diocese of sexual abuse by Diskin. In

that particular complaint, a woman advised that Diskin sexually abused her by inappropriately
touching her. The abuse took place in the mid -1970's in Butler County when she was a minor.
In a letter dated July 7, 2003, Father Lawrence Dinardo wrote to Diskin following a
meeting during which Diskin admitted to having had a sexual relationship with a young man for
a few years while Diskin was assigned as a priest in Butler. The young man was a minor at the
time of the sexual activity. Their interaction ended in 1979 or 1980.

Diocesan records also contained a letter dated June 23, 2004 to Butler County District
Attorney's Office which acknowledges a series of civil lawsuits relating to Diskin' s conduct.

639

 Father Richard J. Dorsch
Biographical Information
YEAR OF BIRTH:
YEAR OF DEATH:
ORDINATION:

1944

N/A
May, 1970

Employment/Assignment History
6/15/1970-5/20/1975
5/21/1975-10/12/1977
10/13/1977-3/07/1983
3/08/1983-5/25/1985
6/26/1985-9/23/1991
9/23/1991-2/07/1994
2/07/1994-8/26/1994
8/26/1994
5/28/1996

Parochial Vicar, St. Basil, Carrick, PA
Parochial Vicar, St. Philip, Crafton, PA
Parochial Vicar, All Saints, Etna, PA
Parochial Vicar, St. Michael, Butler, PA
Pastor, St. Francis De Sale, McKees Rocks, PA,
Administrator, St. Coleman, Turtle Creek, PA
Team Ministry, Risen Lord, Pittsburgh, PA
Leave of Absence
Withdrawn from Ministry

Summary
In early August 1994, a 13 -year-old boy was taken by his parents for a routine physical
examination. During the examination, the boy disclosed to his doctor that he was sexually
assaulted by Father Richard Dorsch. The doctor informed the victim's mother of the assault and
reported it to Children & Youth Services in Allegheny County. The Allegheny County Police
Department thereafter initiated an investigation into the complaint.

At the time of the victim's complaint, Dorsch was serving as pastor at the Risen Lord on
the North Side of Pittsburgh. It was determined that the sexual assault of the victim took place
at "North Park" in Allegheny County on August 2, 1994. An investigation by law enforcement
resulted in Dorsch's arrest on August 26, 1994.
Dorsch's arrest prompted the Diocese of Pittsburgh to place him on administrative leave.
Arrangements were then made to send Dorsch to St. Luke Institute in Suitland, Maryland for an
evaluation. The evaluation was scheduled for the week of October 9, 1994.
On August 26, 1994 - - the day of Dorsch's arrest - - a meeting was held with Dorsch
and officials with the Diocese regarding the victim's allegations. Handwritten notes from the
Diocesan file detailed what occurred during this meeting. Dorsch admitted to "inappropriately"
touching the victim, holding him longer than necessary, and sitting the victim on his (Dorsch's)
lap while stroking the victim's stomach and touching his nipples. When asked if he touched the
victim's genitals, Dorsch replied, "I didn't touch his genitals . . . I don't think I did?" Dorsch
also admitted during the meeting that he had always been attracted to young boys, but that he
had been able to control this attraction by making sure he was never alone with them.

640

 Summary
In April 1995, a jury convicted Dorsch of two counts of indecent assault and one count
of corrupting the morals of a minor. On June 23, 1995, Dorsch was sentenced to 11 '1/2 to 23
months incarceration. However, only a week later (June 30, 1995), Dorsch was released on
parole and admitted back to St. Luke Institute in Maryland.
In a letter dated June 29, 1995 from Rita Flaherty of the Diocese to a physician at St.

Luke Institute, Flaherty wrote, inter alia:

I look forward to working with you and maintaining the excellent
working relationship that the Diocese of Pittsburgh currently has
with St. Luke Institute. I also want to thank you for "going the
extra mile" on behalf of Father Richard Dorsch.
Flaherty continued the letter by stating, "Again, I thank you and all of the staff at St. Luke
Institute for all that you do for the priests of our diocese."
On December 9, 1994, a handwritten letter was sent to Father Guay by another victim.
In his letter, a second victim indicated he was sexually assaulted by Dorsch at the All Saints
church in Etna when he was 10 years old. The victim indicated the assaults first occurred in the
spring of 1981 and that on the first such occasion, Dorsch had the victim touch his (Dorsch's)
bare chest, while Dorsch kissed the victim on the head.

Dorsch thereafter began taking the second victim to a racquetball club in Shaler. After
playing racquetball, Dorsch and the victim would sit naked in a hot tub together and Dorsch
would put his hand on the victim's leg under the water. In the fall of 1991, Dorsch reportedly
sat in the hot tub and fondled the victim's genitals by sitting the victim on his lap and placing
his hands on the victim's penis and testicles. During the following weeks, Dorsch assaulted the
second victim at the church by placing his hand down his pants and, again, fondling his genital
area.
On another occasion, the second victim went to Moraine State Park with Dorsch and
three or four other youths. While swimming in a lake, one of the other boys, who the victim
told Diocesan officials he could identify, complained that Dorsch had tried to fondle his testicles.

The second victim indicated that Dorsch's sexual abuse stopped only when Dorsch was
transferred from All Saints when the victim was in eighth grade. He estimated that, in total,
Dorsch assaulted him on 50 to 70 separate occasions. The second victim later filed a lawsuit
against the Diocese alleging a decades -long conspiracy to protect priests who molested minors.
A review of Dorsch's Diocesan file did not reveal how this lawsuit was ultimately resolved.

Between July and November 1996, the Diocese made various payments and
reimbursements to Dorsch, including $140 for a computer course, $1,732 for classes and $622
for student fees at the University of Pittsburgh at Greensburg, and $2,493 for "courses and
books."
641

 Summary
On January 23, 1997, a letter was sent from the Diocese to St. Luke Institute. The letter
read, in part:

Dear Bill, As I am sure you are aware, Father Richard Dorsch will be returning
to St. Luke's for his second Aftercare workshop the week of February 16
Since Richard's last Aftercare workshop, several new developments have
occurred. On a positive note, Richard recently received word that civil charges
have been dropped as a result of a mediation process and out of court settlement.
This resolution has alleviated a lot of anxiety for Richard regarding his future.
.

.

.

On May 22, 1997, Dorsch wrote a letter to Bishop Donald Wuerl. A portion of the letter

read:

Dear Bishop Wuerl, I was speaking with Rita Flaherty today and she informed
me that the time period for my receiving an increase in my monthly stipend
($1,000) has expired. She suggested that I write you if I need an extension on
this benefit.

There was a handwritten notation on this letter which read, "5/30 called Richard to give O.K. by
Bishop W."
On May 30, 1997, a letter was sent to Dorsch confirming that he would continue to
receive a monthly sustenance check of $1,000 from the Diocese. Dorsch continued to receive
monthly sustenance checks from the Diocese from the year of his conviction through 2009. In
total, Dorsch received $159,700.00 in "sustenance" payments.
On July 6, 2000, a letter regarding Dorsch was sent from Father James Ruggiero,
Episcopal Vicar for Clergy and Religious, to Father Douglas Nowicki of St. Vincent Archabbey
in Latrobe. In the letter, Ruggiero acknowledged that Dorsch had been arrested and convicted
of molesting a 13 -year -old boy. In the letter, Ruggiero asked for Nowicki' s assistance in getting
Dorsch a job in an infirmary setting within a "religious community." Ruggiero further added
that Dorsch was trying to stay out of the Pittsburgh area to avoid causing any additional scandal
for the Diocese. In asking for Nowicki's assistance, Ruggiero stated, "It would be greatly
appreciated by Bishop Wuerl, myself and all those in the Clergy Office . . . His salary would not
need to be large. It could be subsidized by the diocese."
On May 20, 2002, Rita Flaherty, Diocesan Assistance Coordinatr, sent a letter to Dorsch.
A portion of the letter read,

embarrassed that only now am I responding to your
February 25 letter. At about the time your letter arrived, I was
knee deep in work related to fallout from the Boston situation.
Lent and Easter have passed me by. On day runs into the next
and now it is May. These pastfew months have been very difficult.
I am

642

 Summary
So many people are in pain with lives being turned upside down.
By far, this is the most difficult time I have ever spent in the clergy
office since I started there over eight years ago. Your support and

prayers are deeply appreciated. Should a circumstance arise
where a priest feels the need to speak to someone who has
travelled the same journey as you, I will not hesitate to pass along
your name. I'm sure that all the media attention related to clergy
misconduct has also been difficult for you.
I'm sure your
example and courage in facing your own situation would be a
tremendous witness to the many priests who are new to facing an
uncertain future.
.

.

On February 25, 2004, a Pittsburgh law firm sent a letter to Wuerl informing him of yet
another reported victim of Dorsch. The victim who was an adult in 2004, reported through the
law firm that when he was in the fourth, fifth and sixth grades, he was repeatedly sexually
assaulted by Dorsch. This third victim, who served as an altar boy and attended a school
associated with All Saints, described how after Dorsch taught him to play racquetball at the gym,
he would make him sit on his lap in the hot tub. After masses at church, Dorsch would take the
victim to play board games and put his hands down the victim's pants. On other occasions,
Dorsch would take him for car rides and make the victim touch him sexually while he drove.
On February 27, 2004, Counsel for the Diocese sent a letter responding to the law firm.
The letter read, in part, "

I have been asked to respond initially to your letter on behalf of
Bishop Wuerl. The matter that you presented in your letter is
tragic and very sad. The Diocese of Pittsburgh is concerned
utmost about the safety and well-being of children, victims and
their families.
On July 20, 2008, the third victim wrote a letter to the Diocese outlining the sexual
assaults committed against him by Dorsch. In his letter, he explained how he was sexually,
physically, and emotionally abused by Dorsch from 1982 to 1985 while he was a student at All
Saints and an altar boy at All Saints church. The abuse occurred a year after his father had
passed away. The letter describes one particularly damaging assault by Dorsch.
One occasion stands out due to the violent intensity of the abuse,
sexual, physical and emotional. Dorsch led me down to a trail,
then known as the "Braille Trail" (located in North
Park/Allegheny County), saying he wanted to teach me how blind
people read. This incident replayed itself and resulted in my
attempt to take my own life the night of Friday, 20 June 2008.
That day on the trail back in 1983, Dorsch had me close my eyes.
He guided my hand across a Braille sign. Then, his hand
squeezed tight on mine. He forcibly restrained me. I said,
643

 Summary
"Father, that hurts!" He said, "It's going to be okay" as he
gripped my hand around his penis. I cried out through tears, "No,
Father! " His grip got even tighter and he kept his hand clasped
around mine as he forced me to masturbate him to ejaculate. I
was sobbing, I felt disgusting. He said this is what made our love
special, and that only he and I were to know. He always said that,
as if to threaten me.
The victim further informed Diocesan officials that he also sexually abused by Dorsch in the
sacristy, the rectory, the Shaler Racquetball Court, and in the parking lot of a local shopping
center. These sexual assaults reportedly included oral and anal sex.
On July 22, 2008, Dorsch was confronted with the allegations. In a "Confidential
Memorandum," Flaherty documented that she asked Dorsch if the allegations were true. Dorsch
responded that he did know the victim and admitted he was "inappropriate with him."
In the years following his abuse, the third victim attempted suicide on numerous
occasions, including in 2008 and 2009. The Diocese thereafter began paying for his mental
health treatment in July 2008, a month after his attempted suicide.

On December 11, 2008, the victim sent an e-mail communication to Flaherty, the
contents of which Flaherty forwarded to Bishop Zubik. A portion of the e-mail message read:

Early in the summer this year - in fact, it was the day of the
summer solstice itself- I attempted to take my own life. It
happened in the wee hours of the morning following a night of
heavy drink, which my doctors have explained may have induced
an inescapable episodic flashback of sexual abuse, which has
haunted me over the years. This time, however, the pain of that
flashback I couldn't stand any longer, and decided that enough
was enough. No more pain I thought as I swallowed dozens of
pills.
In March 2010, the Diocese announced it would stop paying for the victim's mental
health treatment. On May 4, 2010, the victim committed suicide.

On January 13, 2012, Flaherty and Bishop William John Waltersheid met with yet
another victim of Dorsch. The fourth victim, who was 45 years old at the time of the meeting,
indicated his abuse by Dorsch occurred when he attended All Saints school. This meeting was
memorialized in a "Confidential Memorandum" to Bishop Zubik.

The fourth victim reported that when he was in sixth grade, he became an altar server
and was considering becoming a priest. He stated that when he was in the seventh and eighth
grade, Dorsch began sexually abusing him and that for all his young life, carrying the dark secret
of Dorsch's abuse placed a heavy burden on him. As a result of this abuse, by the end of his
644

 Summary
eighth grade school year, he was drinking heavily. At his worst, he was drinking a half gallon
of vodka per day in the hopes that his drinking would kill him.
The memorandum stated that the fourth victim's "purpose in coming to meet with us
(Flaherty and Waltersheid) was to be able to tell his story and to be heard as a person who
mattered." He also hoped that the church could help him rebuild his life, as he was homeless.
The Diocese ultimately decided to help the victim and paid for a bed and bus pass for him.
On July 2, 2012, Flaherty, at the direction of Waltersheid, contacted a woman whose son
was reportedly molested by Dorsch when he served as an altar boy at St. Coleman The
molestation took place when the victim, who was 32 years old at the time of reporting, was 12
to 14 years of age.

The mother of this fifth victim stated that she learned of the molestation when "Father
Dorsch was arrested back in 1994 or 1995." She stated that once she became aware of what
happened to her son, she approached Father Markell, the parochial vicar assigned at the time
with Dorsch at the parish. She stated that Markell discouraged her from pursuing the matter any
further and asked her son - "what did you do?" - as if to imply he was responsible for or
encouraged Dorsch's sexual misconduct. Markell asked them whether they were going to sue
the church and instructed her not to take her complaint to the Diocese, as there was nothing they
could do or offer.
The fifth victim's mother also told Flaherty, "she took [her son] to a child psychologist
in Monroeville for 2 1/2 years. She said she, her husband and daughter also entered family
counseling." The mother stated that she paid privately for her son's therapy. Flaherty told the
mother that as part of the Diocese policy, they have to turn over all allegations of abuse to the
District Attorney's Office in the location where the abuse occurred. The mother stated that she
would talk to her son.
On July 18, 2012, Flaherty spoke with the mother, who said she had not yet spoken to
her son about the matter. She asked Flaherty not to do anything with this information until she
spoke with her son.
On July 19, 2012, an Allegation Report listed "Alleged Victim: John Doe, Age 32,
Address Unknown and Accused Priest: (Rev.) Richard Dorsch" was sent to counsel for the
Diocese. Because of the concerns expressed by the victim's mother, the initial report did not
identify him by name but only as a "John Doe."
On June 29, 2016, Diocesan officials met with an adult male who reported that when he
was 10 to 12 years of age, he was sexually abused by Dorsch. The abuse took place when the
victim was a member of St. Coleman The victim, who was an altar boy and enjoyed basketball,
explained how he and Dorsch became friendly after Dorsch would come to his games. He
recalled Dorsch giving him gifts and taking pictures of the two of them together. Dorsch soon
began fondling the victim in his (Dorsch's) bedroom at the rectory and at the gym.

645

 The victim also reported he and Dorsch would get into a hot tub together while they were
both naked.

646

 Reverend David F. Dzermejko
Biographical Information
YEAR OF BIRTH:
YEAR OF DEATH:
ORDINATION:

1948
N/A
May 4, 1974

Employment/Assignment History
5/30/1974-6/10/1979
6/11/1979-6/03/1984
6/04/1984-6/10/1991
6/10/1991-10/26/1992
10/26/1992-6/15/2009
6/15/2009
6/15/2009-1/18/2013
10/2015

Our Lady of the Most Blessed Sacrament, Natrona Heights, PA
St. Teresa of Avila, Pittsburgh, PA
St. Susanna, Penn Hills, PA
St. Jerome, Charleroi, PA
Mary, Mother of the Church, Charleroi, PA
Leave of Absence
Resides at St. John Vianney Manor, Pittsburgh, PA
Laicized

Summary
Files obtained by subpoena from the Diocese of Pittsburgh, including a confidential
report from the Diocesan Review Board, as well as personnel, confidential and victim files,
reflected that Father David Dzermejko was reported to have had inappropriate contact with
several young boys, conduct which included anal and oral sexual assaults of young minors.
In June 2009, the Diocese first received a report that Dzermejko had sexually abused a
minor child. A woman called to report that prior to her husband's suicide in April, 2009, he told
her that he had been sexually abused by Dzermejkko. It occurred sometime between 1979 and
1984. The first incident took place in Dzermejko's car where the victim "had been pushed back
in the seat of the car and Dzermejko touched his chest and did other things to him that he would
not detail." The second incident occurred when the victim was on a ferris wheel ride with
Dzermejko during a church festival. During this incident, Dzermejko 'fondled" the victim and
the victim wrote in a journal he was keeping at the time that, "I wasn't raped or sodomized just
fondled." The victim went on to add that Dzermejko had warned him, "You can't tell anyone.
I'll tell your mother." The victim also stated in the journal that he could not get off of the ride
because Dzermejko told the operator to keep the ride going three times longer than it should
have. The victim wrote, "I was trapped and couldn't get off" After meeting with representatives
from the Diocese, it was decided that this victim's family would be provided with funds for

counseling.
On June 19, 2009, counsel for the Diocese received a telephone call from a second
victim. The victim had previously contacted the Allegheny County District Attorney's office
and was encouraged to make an "official report" to the Diocese. The victim stated that he was
an altar boy at St. Teresa of Avila while he was a student at the school. This was during the
647

 Summary
time period of 1979-1982, while he was in the fifth, sixth and seventh grades. He said that
"Father Dave" (Dzermejko) was very friendly with his family and they "went on picnics and
spent time at each other's homes." This victim also said that:

Numerous times he stayed overnight at the rectory and his parents never had a
problem with him doing so. Dave had attractive things to young people such as
a video console and a CB radio among other things.
This victim reported that he was "raped, had anal and oral sex and performed oral sex with
Dave over a course of three years." He feared Dave because his parents were friendly with him
and they drank and shared meals together. The victim stated that the last abuse occurred in the
summertime when his father was working the night shift. His mother and Dave were on the
porch drinking and the victim was with them. Dave became intoxicated and the victim's mom
encouraged Dzermejko to stay the night. After his mother went to bed, he and Dave performed
oral sex on each other and then the victim got scared and ran away and hid in the basement.
On January 31, 2012, a third victim contacted the Diocese. This adult male reported that
he was sexually abused by Dzermejko in the late 1980's when he was 15 to 16 years of age. In
correspondence to the Assistant Prosecuting Attorney in Ohio County, West Virginia, it was
noted by Diocesan counsel that the victim had called the Diocese several times in the past but
did not leave his name. Only after speaking with the prosecutor's office did the victim decide
to give more complete information.

The third victim reported that he was initially introduced to Dzermejko by one of his
friends. At the time, he was living in Cambridge, Ohio. He had stated that Dzermejko would
take him to bars in Wheeling, West Virginia and in Pittsburgh. The victim advised that he had
been on Dzermejko' s boat "The Seaman," and had been to the rectory in Charleroi. He was also
in Dzermejko's various cars.
The victim advised that when he initially met Dzermejko, he did not know that
Dzermejko was a priest. Dzermejko had told this victim that he was a "hospital administrator"
and had a "teddy bear strapped in the backseat of his car that wore a doctor outfit." This victim
had said that "when he first met Dzermejko, he did not do anything sexually to him." He said
there "were other boys ages to 14-16."

The victim reported that "eventually Dzermejko had oral sex with him but he never
performed oral sex on Dzermejko and never had intercourse with him." The victim gave the
following locations as the places where he had "sexual encounters" with Dzermejko: 1) Outside
the "True Colors" bar in Elm Grove, West Virginia (the victim stated he was 15 to 16 years old
at the time); 2) Outside the Lamont restaurant (the victim stated he was about 15 to 16 years old
at the time); 3) On Dzermejko' s boat somewhere between Charleroi and Pittsburgh (the victim
stated that he was 15 to 16 years old); 4) In Dzermejko's rectory in Charleroi (though the victim
said that he was 15 to 16, based on the date when Dzermejko first arrived in Charleroi, he would
have been 18. The victim further reported that he went to the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Columbus
with Dzermejko but he could not recall if oral sex occurred there.
648

 Summary
By letter dated June 15, 2009, Dzermejko was notified that he was being placed on
administrative leave " [i] n light of an allegation made against [him] involving the sexual abuse
of a minor .
." That correspondence also directed Dzermejko "to take up residence at St.
John Vianney Manor . . . , effective immediately."
.

.

On January 11, 2013, law enforcement officers executed a warrant to search
Dzermejko' s rooms at St. John Vianney Manor. They seized child pornography, located on his
computer and also found firearms and illegal drugs. He was arrested in April 2013 for
possession of child pornography. When Dzermejko spoke with law enforcement, he admitted:
That he had been viewing child pornography for in excess of 10 years; that he had historically
travelled to Thailand to have sexual encounters with teen boys; and, that he had gone there as
recently as the same calendar year.
In November 2013, Dzermejko pled guilty to possession of child pornography in federal
court. He was sentenced to three years in prison. He began serving that sentence in June, 2014.

On September 11, 2015, Zubik wrote to Vatican authorities requesting that Dzermejko
"be dismissed from the clerical state in the most expedient manner possible." The official decree
dismissing Dzermejko from the clerical state was issued on October 31, 2015 and the Diocese
received it on November 16, 2015.

Records subpoenaed from the Diocese reflected that financial assistance to Dzermejko
was not suspended upon his incarceration, but appear to have continued for approximately one
year after he went to prison. On March 1, 2016, Dzermejko wrote to Zubik indicating that the
$350 a month he had been receiving for prison commissary expenses and to pay home bills had
stopped and requested financial assistance. In response to Dzermejko' s letter, on March 11,
2016, Zubik wrote:
Having just received your heartfelt -letter, please know that I am quickly
following up on your request for financial assistance. I have asked Bishop
William J. Waltersheild to make this a top priority. Please know that you will be
hearing from him very shortly.
The records received from the Diocese do not reflect what, if any, action was taken to provide
Dzermejko with financial assistance.

649

 Summary
In a memorandum dated
, the Diocese of
wherein a woman reported an incident involving

brother. Her brother told her that when
for a retreat. While there,

,

he and
.

documented a meeting
and her younger
went to
At that time,

was

Diocesan records also contained a confidential memorandum dated
that
was written by Father
stated that he had received a telephone call on that
date from Father
reported that he had been contacted by an individual
who stated that
in the early
Specifically, it was reported that
It was further reported that
was encouraged to have the individuals contact
or
.

=

.

650

REDACTED -- ONGOING APPELLATE
LITIGATION

 Reverend John P. Fitzgerald
Biographical Information
YEAR OF BIRTH:
YEAR OF DEATH:
ORDINATION:

1948

N/A
May 4, 1974

Employment/Assignment History
5/30/1974 - 2/7/1977
St. Thomas, Braddock, PA
5/30/1974 - 2/7/1977
St. Michael, Braddock, PA
2/8/1977 - 7/7/1982
St. Michael the Archangel, Butler, PA
7/8/1982 - 3/7/1983
St. Alexis, Wexford, PA
3/8/1983 - 6/12/1988
All Saint's, Pittsburgh, PA
6/13/1988 - 6/21/1989
St. Anselm, Pittsburgh, PA
6/21/1989 - 8/2/1991
St. Teresa of Avila, Pittsburgh, PA
8/2/1991 - 7/17/1995
St. Anthony, Bessemer, PA
11/28/1994 - 6/17/1996
Pittsburgh International Airport
1/3/1995 - 7/17/1995
St. Lawrence, Hillsville, PA
7/17/1995 - 6/17/1996
St. John Neumann, Pittsburgh, PA
6/17/1996 - 7/1/2009
Pittsburgh International Airport
7/1/2009 - 7/31/2014
Our Lady of Peace, Conway, PA
Summary
On March 10, 2014, a priest contacted the Diocese of Pittsburgh to advise that a male
family member had been molested as a boy by Father John P. Fitzgerald in 1996 while Fitzgerald
resided at Holy Trinity Church and was the Chaplain at the Pittsburgh International Airport. It
was reported that on one occasion, Fitzgerald droved the boy to a hanger in New Castle where
Fitzgerald's airplane was kept. During the ride, Fitzgerald moved his arms to the beat of the
music playing on the radio and then touched the boy's genital area. On another occasion, while
they were in Fitzgerald's airplane, Fitzgerald touched the boy's genital area and attempted to
put his hand down the boy's pants. The boy further reported that Fitzgerald exposed himself in
the Pittsburgh International Airport chapel and also had the boy perform oral sex on him "maybe
half a dozen times." Fitzgerald instructed the boy not to tell anyone, warning that he would do
the same thing to his mother and sister. Fitzgerald told him, "I know when your father isn't at

home."
Fitzgerald denied the allegations. A memorandum of a telephone conversation with
Fitzgerald from August 1, 2014 indicated the following:
Today I received a phone call from Father Jack Fitzgerald. Father Fitzgerald
stated that this would be the only time that I heard from him directly, that all
other conversations would be done through his canonical advocate. Father
651

 Summary
Fitzgerald told me that he wanted me to communicate to [the male's] family that
they had one opportunity to recant their statement or else all hell would break
loose, it will be like World War III. Then Father Fitzgerald hung up.
On December 12, 2014, the Diocese held a Diocesan Review Board hearing relative to
the allegations made against Fitzgerald. Their findings included the following:
1.

The Review Board did not completely accept the testimony of the family of
(the victim). However, some of the board members believe the testimony at
certain points was consistent with abuse and those members tend to believe

that abuse had occurred.
2.

There was a great deal of discrepancy in the facts between the family's
testimony and Father Fitzgerald's.

3.

This abuse could have occurred but there is some disagreement regarding
how to interpret all of the testimony given."

The following were the recommendations of the Diocesan Review Board:
1.

That the allegations brought forward by (the victim) demonstrate that a
semblance of truth exists.

2.

That Reverend John P. Fitzgerald not be returned to his assignment and
that a further hearing of the case take place according to the norms of the
document from the Holy See Sacramentorum Sanctitatis Tutela."

The current status of proceedings against Fitzgerald is unknown.
The Diocese paid for some of the counseling and drug treatment for the male in addition
to providing the family with a $40,000 reimbursement for drug treatment expenses that were
incurred prior to the report being made.

652

 Reverend Joseph M. Ganter
Biographical Information
YEAR OF BIRTH:
YEAR OF DEATH:
ORDINATION:

1892

Unknown
May 25, 1922

Employment/Assignment History
7/1922-9/1923
9/1923-7/1932
7/1932-3/1942
3/1942-6/1964
6/3/1964

Saint's Peter & Paul, Pittsburgh, PA
St. Martin Church, West End, Pittsburgh, PA
St. Athanasius Church, West View, PA
St. Boniface Church, Penn, PA
Retired

Summary
In 2008, an 80-year -old male contacted the Diocese of Pittsburgh to report that Father
Joseph M. Ganter had abused him in the 1930's when he was approximately 10 years of age and
an altar server at St. Anthanasius. He advised that he stopped serving mass after the abuse
occurred. He further advised of five boys who had slept with Ganter as well as an unknown boy
from West View who spent his vacation with Ganter. When a Bishop's delegate reviewed
Ganter' s personal file, an allegation from 1944 was discovered whererin an adult male had
complained of immoral and corrupt relationships between Ganter and at least three teenage boys,

ages 13 to 15.

The first teenage boy was 14 -years -old when Ganter approached him in January, 1943 in
his office. Ganter asked the boy to engage in a sex act. The boy became frightened, started to
cry and then asked to go home. Ganter gave the boy $3.00 and instructed him to never tell
anyone.
The second teenage boy was 15 -years -old when Ganter asked him to commit a sex act in
his office. This occurred on a Sunday evening in April, 1943. The boy refused. Ganter gave
him $12.00 and one ticket for bingo, instructing him not to tell anyone. A witness informed the
boy that he should do whatever Ganter requested because it was not sinful. The witness futher
advised the boy not to be afraid because Ganter told him that everybody does it.
The third teen entered the parish house on the evening of September 30, 1943 with
another boy. The other boy then went to the school hall. When the other boy returned to the
house with two others, they witnessed the teen and Ganter engaged in a sex act. This occurred
in the office opposite the dining room.

653

 In 1945, at the request of Ganter, a Justice of the Peace conducted an investigation into
the accusations. The individuals were interviewed, having given different stories and denied
any supposed immoral relations with Ganter.

654

 Reverend John A. Genizer
Biographical Information
YEAR OF BIRTH:
YEAR OF DEATH:
ORDINATION:

1941

N/A
December 23, 1967

Employment/Assignment History
7/31/1968-5/21/1973
5/22/1973-2/17/1975
5/22/1973-2/17/1975
2/17/1975-8/21/1980
8/25/1980-4/29/1990
6/11/1990-6/10/1991
6/01/1991-2/07/1994
6/10/1991-2/07/1994
2/07/1994-1/17/2000
1/17/2000-3/12/2007
3/12/2007-7/07/2008
7/07/2008-6/06/2011
6/06/2011 -pre s ent

Parochial Vicar, St. Paul, Butler, PA
Special Assignment, Office of Religious Education,
Diocese of Pittsburgh Pastoral Center
Duquesne University-Graduate Studies
Assistant Director, Adult Religious Education
Diocese of Pittsburgh Pastoral Center
Associate Spiritual Director, Mount St. Mary Seminary,
Emmitsburg, MD
Parochial Vicar, Holy Innocents, Pittsburgh, PA
Assistant Chaplain Nursing Home, McGuire Memorial Home,
New Brighton, PA
Administrator, St. Cyril & Methodius, New Brighton, PA
Pastor, St. Colman, Turtle Creek, PA
Chaplain Military -US Navy, Archdiocese for Military Services,
Washington, DC
Administrator, St. Barbara, Bridgeville, PA
Parochial Vicar, St. John the Baptist, Pittsburgh, PA
Chaplain, Little Sisters of the Poor

Summary
In a document dated July 7, 1995 and initialed "R.F.G." (Father Robert F. Guay), it was
noted that a telephone call had been received from Father William Lynn, Secretary for the Clergy
of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia. It was reported that the son of a member of the Archdiocese
had revealed that was fondled by Father John A. Genizer in 1980 when he was 13 -years -old.
Lynn advised that the son's parents were very involved in the church and were reputable. He
further stated that the parents did not want to make the information public.

Guay sent a letter to the family dated August 7, 1995 wherein he explained that in order
for the Diocese of Pittsburgh to conduct an investigation, a statement or written allegation was
necessary so that they had something documented to review with the priest involved.
In February, 2009, Geinzer wrote a letter to Bishop Zubik, asking for his endorsement to
serve under the supervision of the Apostleship of the Holy See USA as a chaplain aboard a
passenger cruise ship. In a confidential memorandum to the file dated March 24, 2009, the

655

 Summary
Diocese reported that Father Bonner met with Geinzer to discuss his recent request. It was noted
that Genizer needed the endorsement of the Bishop and that the Bishop would have to sign a
document stating that Genizer; "Enjoys a good reputation and has no problems of a moral
nature." They then discussed the 1995 report of abuse. Genizer denied the allegation.
It was subsequently determined that because of the sexual allegation listed in his
confidential file, Genizer would not be endorsed by the Bishop to serve as chaplain. Genizer
was assured, however, that the allegation would not affect his current standing in the Diocese
because the Diocese deemed it to be an "inconclusive allegation."
In a confidential memorandum dated May 28, 2014, a telephone call from a woman was
documented wherein she complained about Genizer' s conduct around her son. She stated that
three years ealier, she and her family went to the Little Sisters of the Poor to visit her parents.
Her son was eight -years -old at that time. While they were there, Genizer took her children to
get candy. When they returned, she noticed that Genizer was showing a little too much interest
in her son's clothes and how her son looked. This made her son feel very uneasy. During their
next visit, Genizer approached her son. He stated that "he looked so handsome" and touched
the boy as he made this comment. She stated that her son broke into tears and told her that he
did not want to talk to Genizer. The boy further stated, "I don't want him touching me." Finally,
the woman revealed that on a more recent vistit to Little Sisters of the Poor, they attended mass.
As they were leaving, Genizer approached another young boy who was approximately 13 years
of age. She stated that Genizer began touching the boy and made comments about how he was
dressed. The woman advised that she had just attended a "safe environment training" and
thought that Genizer' s behavior towards young boys needed attention.

Another memorandum in the file dated May 30, 2014 revealed that a discussion of the
allegations with Genizer occurred. Father Eckman told Genizer that he had received a complaint
through Father Rushofsky that Genizer was making the boy uncomfortable by patting him on
the back for prolonged periods of time, making comments about his clothes and focusing on the
child in unusual ways. He also explained that Genizer had been observed exhibiting this same
type of behavior with other young boys, but never with any of the girls. Genizer responded that
he was unaware of his behavior and how it made others feel. He advised that he would make
extra effort not to touch any minors.
After these specific allegations of unnatural interest in young boys were made and
documented in his file, Diocesan officials continued to write and sign letters advising that
Genizer was a priest in "good standing." Specifically in a May 19, 2016 document entitled;
"Testimonial of the Diocese of Pittsburgh of Suitability for Priestly Ministry" that was signed
and initialed by Eckman, it was stated that not only was Genizer a priest in good standing, In] o
accusations of misconduct have ever been made against him, nor has he ever been involved in
any incident, to my knowledge, which has led to potential or public scandal." The letter further
stated; "To the best of my knowledge, he has never engaged in sexual behavior inconsistent with
priestly celibacy, nor had he ever acted in an inappropriate manner with minors."

656

 Reverend Charles R. Ginder
Biographical Information
YEAR OF BIRTH:
YEAR OF DEATH:
ORDINATION:

1914
1984

June 11, 1940

Employment/Assignment History
8/1940-9/1942
9/1972-2/1946
2/1946-6/1950
6/1950-12/1953
12/1953-6/1959
12/1954-7/1962
6/1959-2/1961
2/1961-8/1962
7/1962-7/1963
8/1963-5/1964
5/1964-6/1964
5/1964-6/1964
6/1964-1/1967
1/1967-?
1970-6/1984

St. Gregory, Zelienople, PA and St. Mathias, Evans City, PA
Society of St. Suplice (NFI)
Saint's Simon & Jude, Blairsville, PA
St. George, Pittsburgh, PA (South Side)
St. Joseph, Pittsburgh, PA (North Side)

Censor Librorum
St. Mary, New Castle, PA
School Sisters of St. Francis, Bellevue, PA
Health related leave of absence
Our Lady of Mercy Academy (NFI)
St. Januarius, Pittsburgh, PA
St. John the Baptist, Pittsburgh, PA
Sick Leave
St. John the Baptist, Baden, PA
Sick Leave

Summary
Over the course of the years, an adult male residing in Seattle, WA contacted the Diocese
of Pittsburgh on multiple occasions. He never provided details of his abuse, but he threatened to
sue the Diocese and recorded telephone calls that he made. The male was advised in 1999 that
the records pertaining to Father Charles R. Ginder were destroyed as Ginder had died in 1984.
The male subsequently sent a letter wherein he stated that he was taken to New York, New
Jersey and Philadelphia by Ginder. He estimated that the trips occurred between 1958 and 1961.
He did not provide details of any abuse, but advised that the details would be contained in a
book that he planned to write. The male also advised that he was abused by another priest in
Pittsburgh who now lived in Florida. He refused to name the other priest, however, in order to
maintain "the element of surprise."
In September, 2005, the male called the Diocese to say that he would be in Pittsburgh in
the near future and wanted to make the abuse publicly known. He advised that he had requested
that CNN and 60 Minutes accompany him. In 2006, he called the Diocese to advise that he was
expecting reimbursement for the cost of many years of counseling and medication that he has
incurred due to abuse by Ginder.

657

 Summary
On November 28, 2007, a letter was went to the male from the Ministerial Assistance
Coordinator of the Diocese which included a check in the amount of $4,092.00 for monthly
insurance premiums. A copy of a Receipt and Release was also enclosed which stated:

I hereby forever remise, release and discharge the Diocese of Pittsburgh
from any and all continuing obligations, liabilities or claims that I may have in
the future for counseling and counseling benefits.
.

.

.

Additionally, there was a June 20, 2008 letter in the file that was sent to the male. This letter
stated that the Diocese had entered into a mediation process in connection with a lawsuit and
that sums of money were apportioned to the plaintiffs. The male was advised that, as a plaintiff,
he was to receive $16,000.00 as his portion of the resolution.
In 2002, a 50 -year -old male living in New Jersey reported that he had been abused by
Ginder when he was between the ages of 15 and 17. He stated that he and a boy from Denmark
would gather at the residence of the Bishop on many occasions. He stated that they would drink
alcohol and "sexual activity would occur there." According to the male, the sexual activity
occurred with Ginder and the Bishop was aware of it. The male further stated that he lived with
Ginder on Murray Avenue for a short time. He stated that the relationship with Ginder and
others was "out of control." He described Ginder as "a physically abusive monster."
In 2007, a 69 -year old male living in Florida called the Diocese to report that he had been
molested by Ginder. He stated that he attended St. Mary's on the North Side as a child in the
late 1940s. Ginder, who was assigned to a neighboring parish, would wait outside of St. Mary's
early in the morning to offer him rides. He did not provide specific details. However, he
explained that after a few occasions, he no longer accepted rides from Ginder. He stated that
the abuse he suffered caused his marriage to fail; that he had feelings of guilt; and, that he had
attempted suicide. He further related that he was diagnosed with post -traumatic stress disorder;
had been in and out of hospitals; and experienced terrible nightmares.
In 2011, an adult male reported sexual abuse through the Diocese of Manchester in New
Hampshire. He stated that in 1980, when he was approximately 15 or 16 -years -old, he attended
an overnight retreat at Hundred Acres in New Boston. Another man, possibly a priest, attempted
to assault him in his bed. When he screamed loudly, Ginder came into the room. Ginder then
offered to drive him home. During the car ride, Ginder pulled over by a river. He then fondled
the young man on the top of his clothes. The young man got out of the vehicle before it went
any further and took a bus home.
In 2013, an adult male reported that he was befriended by Ginder following the death of
his brother in 1960. He stated that they often made trips from New Castle to Pittsburgh and had
dinner together. The male recalled that on one occasion, he fell asleep in the front seat of the
car following dinner with Ginder. He awoke to Ginder putting his hand up his pant leg, touching
his thigh. When asked what he was doing, Ginder explained that he was checking to see if the
boy was cold. After this incident, he did not accompany Ginder anywhere else.

658

 Reverend James G. Graham
Biographical Information
YEAR OF BIRTH:
YEAR OF DEATH:
ORDINATION:

1940
2015
May 14, 1966

Employment/Assignment History
6/07/1966 - 1/23/1972
St. Lawrence O'Toole, Pittsburgh, PA
1/24/1972 - 5/29/1974
St. Elizabeth of Hungary, Pittsburgh, PA
5/30/1974 - 9/18/1978
St. Bernadette, Monroeville, PA
9/19/1978 - 4/13/2012
St. Lawrence O'Toole, Garfield, PA
4/13/2012 - 3/06/2015
Leave of Absence
Summary
On July 24, 2012 the Diocesan Review Board heard and reviewed testimony pertaining
to the following allegations of abuse by Father James G. Graham:
1.

A long-time female partner of a male victim verified a letter that he wrote
prior to his drug overdose death wherein he detailed his abuse at the hands
of Graham which started when he was 9 years old. The abuse lasted two
or three yeaars. The female partner became aware of the abuse after the
birth of her daughter when the victim refused to allow Graham to baptize
her. The victim died in 2012.

of a victim testified that when her brother was placed on a liver
transplant list, she had several conversations with him about Graham. He
told her about the intimacy and sex he had with Graham when he was 15 years -old. The victim died in 2002.

2. The sister

3. This victim did not appear before the Review Board as assigned; instead,

his interview by the Clergy Office was accepted as his testimony. He
stated that Graham once wrote him a love letter. On April 30, 2012, the
victim had a telephone conversation with the Diocesan Assistance
Coordinator. He advised that on two occasions while he was playing pool,
Graham came up behind him, lowered his pants and inserted his penis into
the victim's anus. The victim was 16 -years -old at the time. He advised
that shortly thereafter he began using drugs and alcohol.

All three allegations were deemed to be credible. Graham's testimony before the Review
Board was deemed not to be credible. The Review Board believed that Graham's mental
capacity was diminished due to his alcoholism. It was recommended to Bishop Zubik that
659

 Graham was no longer suitable for public ministry. This recommendation was accepted and
Zubik perrmanently removed Graham as a priest.
The Diocese forwarded information regarding all three allegations to the Allegheny
County District Attorney's Office.

660

 Brother William Hildebrand
Biographical Information
YEAR OF BIRTH:
YEAR OF DEATH:
ORDINATION:

Unknown
1979

N/A

Employment/Assignment History
Unknown

Summary
In May 2014, four adult males reported that they were abused by Brother William
Hildebrand, who was a member of the Marianist Order. The first male stated that he was a
student at North Catholic High School during the 1952-1956 school year. During a time period
when the young man was utilizing crutches, Hildebrand rubbed his behind. The young man told
Hildebrand to get away from him.

The second male reported that he was a student at North Catholic High School during
the 1960's school year. He stated that Hildebrand managed the school bookstore and would get
the students to go behind the counter so that he could have sex education talks with them and
touch them. He accused Hildebrand of inappropriately touching him.
The third male advised that he was a student at North Catholic High School from 19591961. He explained that Hildebrand was his Latin teacher and would make him stay after school.
He reported that Hildebrand made him pull down his pants and then groped him. He stated that
this occurred on three to four occasions before he dropped out of school.

The fourth male was a student at North Catholic High School from 1956-1960. He
accused Hildebrand of inappropriately touching him.
In June, 2014, a 69 -year -old male reported that he was abused by Hildebrand when he
was a student at North Catholic High School during the 1959 school year. He stated that during
his freshman year, he went to the school bookstore in order to purchase a new notebook. While
there, he stated that Hildebrand grabbed his genitals.

The records indicated that the Diocese attempted to reach out to the victims regarding
counseling.

661

 Reverend John S. Hoehl
Biographical Information
YEAR OF BIRTH:
YEAR OF DEATH:
ORDINATION:

1938

N/A
May 9, 1963

Employment/Assignment History
1964
1966
1971
1985
1985
1986
1987

St. Mary Magdalene, Homestead, PA
St. Francis Xavier, Pittsburgh, PA

Quigley Catholic High School, Baden, PA
Bishop Boyle High School, Homestead, PA
St. John Joachim, Greenfield, PA
Secretariat for Education, Pittsburgh, PA
Shadyside Hospital, Pittsburgh, PA

Summary
On May 2, 1986, a 28 -year -old male made a report to the Diocese of Pittsburgh that he
had been sexually abused by Father John S. Hoehl. He stated that from 1972, when he was a
14 -year -old freshman at Quigley High School, until 1979, when he was a senior at Duquesne
University, Hoehl fondled his genitals and they performed mutual masturbation and oral sex on
each other on a regular basis. At the time when this disclosure was made to Diocesan officials,
a young man was living with Hoehl at the rectory at St. Joachim. Found within the rectory were
various drug paraphernalia, condoms and other pornographic materials, including videos and
literature.
In 1993, a 29 -year -old adult male reported that he had been sexually involved with Hoehl
beginning in 1978 when he was 15 -years -old. He stated that it continued from his sophomore
year at Quigley until 1980 when he was a senior. He stated that he was sodomized on at least
two occasions. He further stated that oral sex and mutual masturbation occurred on many
occasions during that time period. He advised that he had sought the assistance of Hoehl in
connection with sexual abuse that he had suffered prior to attending Quigley.
In 1997, a 29 -year -old male reported that in 1976, when he was nine years of age, Hoehl
touched and rubbed his genitals, and, performed oral sex on him. He stated that the sexual
activity lasted until he was 18 -years -old. It then occurred again when he was a sophomore in
college. He indicated that there were many boys who stayed at Hoehl' s residence at Quigley and
that some of them had similar experiences with Hoehl. On September 22, 2000, the male and
his wife filed a lawsuit against Hoehl and the Diocese in connection with the sexual abuse. On
December 14, 2007, Bishop Zubick provided the male's parents with a check in the amount of
$10,000.00. The accompanying letter stated that the money was for emotional and financial
hardship suffered.

662

 Summary
On April 26, 2002, a 33 -year-old male reported sexual abuse by Hoehl. He stated that
the sexual contact occurred at Hoehl's private residence at Quigley in 1979 when he was 16
years of age. The male reported that Hoehl sexually abused him and provided him with drugs
and alcohol until 1982.
In 2004, an adult male informed the Diocese that he was sexually abused by Hoehl when
he was 16 years old and in his sophomore year at Quigley. He stated that in April, 1978, he was
outside of the school building when a friend came out to tell him that a girl (hereinafter referred
to "Jane Doe") was in trouble in Hoehl' s office. The two boys ran into the office where they
saw her. She was naked from the waist down. She was being held down by an older student
and Hohel was about to rape her. The boys helped Jane Doe retrieve her clothes and wanted to
get her out of the office as quickly as possible. Hoehl told them that he would release Jane Doe
if they stayed behind to take her place. They agreed and Jane Doe was released. Hoehl locked
the office on both sides. He then sodomized both boys. The adult male reported that he and
Jane Doe told a female teacher what had occurred but the teacher did not take any action. The
male further stated that he came forward after receiving the letter wherein Bishop Wuerl invited
people to contact the Diocese if they had been abused.

Another additional victim came forward in 2004 to report that Hoehl had touched him
inappropriately between 1980 and 1984. The incidents occurred in Beaver County. The male
attended therapy and was diagnosed with post -traumatic stress disorder. The Diocese assumed
responsibility for the costs of the therapy sessions and his prescriptions. On April 21, 2008, the
Diocese issued a check to the male in the amount of $10,000.00 as a pastoral gesture for the
financial difficulties he had experienced.
The Diocese received additional reports regarding abuse at the hands of Hoehl.
Specifically:

Hoehl entered the shower with a 14 -year-old boy in 1975. He also engaged
in manual masturbation with the boy and oral sex. The abuse occurred in
the school locker room, Hoehl's residence at Quigley and at a cabin near
Youghiogheny Lake;
Hoehl sexually touched a boy from 1972 to 1973 when he was 15 to 16
years of age. The incidents occurred in Beaver County;
Hoehl inappropriately touched a boy from 1979 to 1980 when the boy was
12 to 13 years of age. The incidents occurred in Beaver County;
Hoehl fondled the genitals of a 16 -year -old boy in 1976. The incidents
occurred at Quigley and at the Youghiogheny Reservoir.
The Diocese was also notified that Hoehl fondled the genitals of a 13 -year-old boy in
1979. He also approached the boy in the shower. These incidents occurred at Quigley and in a
"cabin at a lake." The victim received $40,000.00 from the Diocese to settle his part of a 32
victim lawsuit against the Diocese. He later received a check in the amount of $10,000.00 to
help with his additional expenses.
663

 Summary
The following is a summary of further allegations of sexual abuse committed by Hoehl:
Hoehl fondled the genitals of a boy and washed his back. This occurred
between 1974 (when the boy was 10 -years -old) and 1981. The conduct
occurred at Quigley and at a cabin at Youghiogheny Lake. He is the brother
of the immediate victim listed above;
In 1973, Hoehl wrestled and showered with a 15 -year -old boy. He removed
the boy's underwear and rubbed his genitals. The incidents occurred at
Hoehl' s private home at Quigley. He is the brother of the immediate victim
listed above;
A male reported that Hoehl would make the boys go to bed wearing long
shirts with no underwear so that he could fondle their genitals in the middle
of the night; and
From 1975 to 1976, Hoehl kissed a boy, provided him with alcohol,
performed oral sex on him, fondled his genitals and took nude photographs
of him. The incidents occurred from 1975 to 1976 when the boy was 17 to
18 years of age.
On May 18, 2015, Father David DeWitt, Pastor of Risen Lord, telephoned Father Mark
Eckman DeWitt explained that he was scheduled to preside over a funeral and was contacted
by the son of the deceased who stated that he was having a difficult time dealing with his father's
death. The son further advised that he felt uncomfortable coming back to Pittsburgh because he
was sexually abused by Hoehl when he was a student at St. Francis Xavier from 1966 to1967.

An adult male met with Diocesan officials on May 11, 2005. The male explained that he
was a student at Quigley and, when he was approximately 15-16 years of age, Hoehl took him
and several other boys to his cabin. While at the cabin, everyone was divided up to sleep in
various places. He was assigned to sleep with Hoehl and Hoehl insisted that the boy sleep in a
long t -shirt with no underwear. During the night, Hoehl fondled him. The male also reported
that Hoehl had him work around his property during the summer Afterwards, Hoehl instructed
him to take a shower. When he got out of the shower, Hoehl was there waiting with a towel to
dry him off. After three days in a row of this behavior by Hoehl, the male did not return. Finally,
the male reported that on graduation day, his diploma case was empty. Hoehl informed him that
if he wanted his diploma, he needed to come to see him. He cried all the way home and never
returned to get his diploma because he did not want to deal with Hoehl.
The file contained a confidential memorandum that revaled that on May 20, 2009, Bishop
Zubik met with a man whose brother was abused by Hoehl. The family had heard second-hand
information that the brother was also abused by another priest who served at St. Teresa of Avila
in Perrysville. Zubik stated in his report that he reached out to the widow of the brother several
times, but she never returned any of his messages. Attached to the confidential memorandum
were what appeared to be journal writings authored by the brother wherein he described certain
incidents at Quigley.

664

 Summary
In an e-mail commnunication on November 2, 2004, a 1979 Quigley graduate wrote to
Father Ronald Lengwin about Hoehl. He stated that when he was a student, he was approached
by Hoehl. However, he was able to avoid being molested by him. Others in his class were not
so lucky. The male advised that his cousin was molested by Hoehl "that creature" and that
another good friend of his committed suicide because of what Hoehl did to him. He expressed
a strong concern because other priests and adults affiliated with the school were aware that
Hoehl was giving the boys drugs and alcohol and having them spend the night at his house. He
stated that as an adult, he now he realizes how the adults at the school buried their heads in the
sand. He wrote: "Not one adult did anything to stop it" and "To say that there was no knowledge
or conspiracy is ludicrous and a flat-out lie."
In 2010, a woman telephoned the Diocese Hotline to report that her son was abused by
Hoehl in the late 1980's or early 1990's. She stated that Hoehl "grabbed" her son and asked to
sleep naked with him while at his cabin on the Youghiogheny River. Her son, now 33 years of
age, did not want to see or speak with Hoehl.

Following the first report of sexual abuse on May 2, 1986, Hoehl was removed as pastor
of St. Joachim and as Headmaster of Bishop Boyle High School on May 4, 1986. He was
admitted to Southdown treatment facility in Aurora, Canada on May 6, 1986. While at
Southdown, he underwent therapy for approximately six months and was discharged on
November 21, 1986. During his treatment at Southdown, the Director informed the Diocese
that Hoehl had admitted that he had been sexually involved with several high school students
when he was Headmaster at Quigley. At the conclusion of his treatment, Southdown provided
the Diocese with an assessment that Hoehl, in fact, was/is a pedophile. On December 3, 1986,
Hoehl was assigned as an educational consultant to Father Douglas Nowicki, then Secretary of
Education for the Diocese.
On July 1, 1987, Hoehl was appointed as a chaplain at Shadyside Hospital. However, on
November 29, 1988, he was informed by the Diocese that he could no longer continue in
ministry. Hoehl resigned. After the Diocese withdrew his priestly faculties, he was provided
with subsistence and medical benefits for three and one half years. The Diocesan records
indicated that each report of sexual abuse was brought to the attention of the District Attorney's
Office and that counseling for the victims and their families was provided.

The expiration of the statute of limitations prevented Hoehl from being arrested and
charged criminally for sexual abuse of minors.
On April 26, 2002, several victims reported to WTAE Channel 4 that they were sexually
abused by Hoehl when they attended Quigley.
In October, 2007, following an initiation of a lawsuit, 32 victims settled with the Diocese.
In 2009, Hoehl was reported to be living in Addison, Pennsylvania. In a letter to the
Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown, the Diocese of Pittsburgh reported the allegations against Hoehl
and where he was living.

665

 Reverend James Hopkins
Biographical Information
YEAR OF BIRTH:
YEAR OF DEATH:
ORDINATION:

Unknown
Unknown
1968

Employment/Assignment History
Unknown

Summary
In November 2012, the Diocese of Pittsburgh received an e-mail communication from
an adult male about Father James Hopkins. He stated that several decades earlier, Hopkins
performed a "medical exam" on him when he was freshman at St. Fidelis Seminary High School.
The exam involved the young man bending over naked in front of Hopkins and listening to
Hopkins make creepy comments about his behind. There was no indication in the records that
the Diocese conducted an investigation or attempted to contact the male about counseling.

That same month, the Diocese sent a letter to the Butler County District Attorney's
Office, advising of the allegation. The letter stated that Hopkins was transferred to the Diocese
of Camden, New Jersey in 1973. In 1995, he pled guilty to sexually molesting an altar boy in
Camden County. He received a ten year prison sentence and was ordered to register as a sex
offender.

666

 Reverend John J. Huber
Biographical Information
YEAR OF BIRTH:
YEAR OF DEATH:
ORDINATION:

1942
1998

05/18/1968

Employment/Assignment History
6/1968-5/1973
5/1973-5/1979
5/1979-6-1983
6/1983-7/1984
7/1984-8/1985
8/1985-8/1991
8/1991-12/1998

St.
St.
St.
St.
St.
St.
St.

Canice Church, Knoxville, PA
Joseph Church, Duquesne, PA
James Church, Sewickley, PA
Joseph Home for Aged, Pittsburgh, PA
Bernard, Mt. Lebanon, PA
Thomas Aquinas, California, PA
Catherine of Siena, Wireton, PA

Summary
In March 2009, a report was made to the Diocese of Pittsburgh of sexual abuse committed
by Father John J. Huber when he served as the pastor at St. Canice. An adult male reported that
when he was in fourth or fifth grade, another priest by the name of Father Adams had touched
him in his genital area. Sometime later, the boy went to confession and told Huber that he may
be attracted to men. Huber responded that he should attend one-on-one counseling sessions.
During one of those sessions, Huber performed oral sex on him and then gave him $20.00
afterwards. The male stated that this occurred on more than one occasion.

On March 30, 2009, counsel for the Diocese sent a letter to the Allegheny County District
Attorney's Office, advising of the allegations.

667

 Reverend Edward G. Huff
Biographical Information
YEAR OF BIRTH:
YEAR OF DEATH:
ORDINATION:

1947

N/A
May 5, 1973

Employment/Assignment History
5/22/1973 - 2/27/1978
Holy Innocents, Pittsburgh, PA
2/27/1978 - 6/29/1983
North American Martyrs, Monroeville, PA
6/29/1983 - 1/10/1987
St. Gabriel of the Sorrowful Mother, Whitehall, PA
1/10/1987 - 6/17/1991
St. Anthony, Bessemer, PA
6/17/1991 - 2/27/1992
St. Anselm, Swissvale, PA
2/27/1992 - 11/2/1992
Leave of Absence
11/2/1992 - 1/7/1993
Office for Chaplaincies and Campus Ministry
1/7/1993 - 2/16/1993
Leave of Absence
2/16/1993

Resigned

Summary
Beginning in 1992, several victims reported to the Diocese of Pittsburgh that while Father
Edward G. Huff was a priest at St. Anthony, he inappropriately touched them. It was reported
that he would invite teenage male students to the rectory, provide them with alcohol, and wrestle
with them, at times. Huff would also attempt to take students with him to go bowling, to see
Pittsburgh Pirates games, and to go to Cedar Point.
One victim stated that Huff would repeatedly ask him to go places with him. Eventually,
the victim agreed to attend a Pittsburgh Pirates game alone with Huff. While Huff was driving
them home, he asked the victim to move closer to him in the front seat of the car. Huff then
allowed the victim to drive the car by taking control of the steering wheel while the car was
travelling at 55 mph on the interstate. Huff then pulled up the victim's pant legs and began
feeling his legs. Huff then moved his hand up to the victim's thigh, untucked his shirt and
rubbed his stomach. Huff then unbuttoned the victim's pants and attempted to place his hand
down the front of the victim's pants. At that point, the victim told Huff he no longer wanted to
drive and moved back to the passenger seat. Once again, Huff began rubbing the victim's
stomach and attempted to move his hand down into the vicitm' s pants. This continued off and
on until Huff took the victim home. The records revealed that other victims provided similar
accounts of Huff allowing them to drive his car while touching them inappropriately.

Prior to the victim's Confirmation, Huff met with him privately in the rectory. While
sitting, Huff pulled the victim's chair closer to his and began touching the victim's knees and
rubbing his thighs. The victim grabbed Huff's wrist and pushed him away. The victim reported
these incidents to the Diocese in the form of a letter dated December 31, 1992.
668

 Summary
On February 27, 1992, while a priest at St. Anselm, Huff was removed from his
assignment. Subsequently on March 5, 1992, Huff was evaluated by St. Michael's Community
Program in St. Louis, Missouri and began treatment there on April 16, 1992. In October, 1992,
Huff returned to Pittsburgh and was assigned to the Office for Chaplains and Campus Ministry
where he was responsible for supervising chaplains at hospitals and nursing home facilities.
On January 7, 1993, Huff was placed on administrative leave and then returned to St.
Michael's the following day for further treatment. On February 16, 1993, Huff resigned from
active ministry.
On June 22, 1994, Huff was arrested and charged with several crimes in Lawrence
County, Pennsylvania for conduct that occurred when he was a priest at St. Anthony's. On
August 21, 1996, Huff pled guilty and was sentenced to serve 18 months to 5 years in prison.
He was paroled on August 5, 1999.

There was a May 5, 2000 handwritten note (author unknown) in Huff's file. The note
stated that Huff, "admitted to touching 500 kids and targeting at least 1200 . . ."
On May 5, 2008, another victim disclosed that in the early 1980s, while he was an altar
server at St. Gabriel, he was inappropriately touched by Huff. Huff often took the victim to
Pittsburgh Pirates games and provided him with alcohol. While the victim was in Huff's car,
Huff would stroke the victim's leg and gradually move up to his genital area. The victim could
not remember everything that occurred due to being intoxicated. He stated that he passed out
from alcohol provided by Huff.
A narrative contained in Diocesan files indicated that on June 14, 2015, altar server
training was conducted at St. Joseph the Worker in New Castle. Huff came into the church and
was overheard asking a teenage male if he would like to go to a Pittsburgh Pirates game with
him in the future. The teen declined the offer and his mother contacted church officials about

the incident.

669

 Monsignor Edward Joyce
Biographical Information
YEAR OF BIRTH:
YEAR OF DEATH:
ORDINATION:

1915
1969

June 16, 1940

Employment/Assignment History
3/15/1941 - 12/04/1946
Parochial Vicar, St. James, Wilkinsburg, PA
12/05/1946 - 6/15/1955
Parochial Vicar, St. Andrew, North Side, PA
6/16/1955 - 7/29/1959
Parochial Vicar, St. Titus, Aliquippa, PA
7/29/1959 - 10/05/1959
Parochial Vicar, St. Joseph, Sharpsburg, PA
10/06/1959 - 9/21/1959
Vic Enc, St. Joseph, Sharpsburg, PA
9/22/1959 - 7/22/1963
Pastor, St. Joseph, Sharpsburg, PA
7/23/1963 - 8/27/1968
Pastor, St. Joseph, North Side, PA
8/28/1968 - 1/11/1969
Chaplain, Sisters of St. Francis, Mt. Assisi, PA
Summary
In December 2002, an allegation of sexual abuse by Monsignor Edward Joyce was made
to the Allegheny County District Attorney's Office. A male had reported to the Diocese of
Pittsburgh that Joyce had inappropriately touched him from 1966 to 1968 at a church in
Allegheny County. He stated that he and Joyce gave each other massages which eventually led
to naked massages and heavy touching. On one occasion, he and Joyce were caught in a
compromising position by Father Patrick Jones. After the incident, Joyce was quickly
reassigned to an all -girls school.
In April, 2010 a female requested her school records from St. Joseph. She provided
"troubling information" about. Joyce in connection with the request. The "troubling
information" was never described, however, and there was no other documentation in the file to
detail the incident and/or how it was resolved.

670

 Reverend Marvin Justi
Biographical Information
YEAR OF BIRTH:
YEAR OF DEATH:
ORDINATION:

1933

2009
June 7, 1958

Employment/Assignment History
1958-1969
1969-1972
19721980
2002

St. Fidelis Seminary

Quigley High School, Ambridge, PA
Good Shepard Catholic Church, Shawnee, KS
St. Cecilia Catholic Church, Ambridge, PA
St. Joseph Church, Cabot, PA

Summary
In August 2016, an adult female reported that in June, 1969, she was a 17 -year -old
nursing student at Sewickley Valley Hospital. During that time, Father Marvin Justi was a
patient at the hospital and she gave him a sponge bath. During the bath, he became sexually
aroused and and insisted that she continue to wash his genitals. After that, Justi began sending
her suggestive letters and notes. Her mother found the notes and reported Justi to his superior.
In 1982, the female was working at a physical therapy facility in Ambridge when Justi
arrived as a patient. He proceeded to undress and refused to get dressed when she attempted to
start the session. He was asked to leave and seek therapy elsewhere.
In 1985, Justi appeared at the female's house unannounced. She allowed him to enter.
While there, he used the restroom. He then re -appeared in the living room naked with a freshly
shaven genital area. He left after she picked up the telephone to call the police.

Diocesan records contained little to no documentation on any investigation conducted by
the Diocese of Pittsburgh.

671

 Reverend Bernard J. Kaczmarczyk
Biographical Information
YEAR OF BIRTH:
YEAR OF DEATH:
ORDINATION:

1929

Unknown
May 25, 1957

Employment/Assignment History
6/13/1957-10/19/1959
10/20/1959-5/30/1961
5/31/1961-9/21/1967
9/22/1967-9/19/1968
9/20/1968-3/01/1970
3/01/1970-10/26/1992
10/30/1992
2/28/1994
11/1997-1/1998
6/1998

Assistant, St. Robert Bellarmine, E. McKeesport PA
Assistant, St. Ladislaus, Natrona, PA
Assistant, St. Adalbert, South Side, PA
Assistant, St. Stanislaus, Ambridge, PA
Assistant, Holy Family, Lawrenceville, PA
Pastor, Holy Name of Mary, Donora, PA
Leave of Absence
Faculties withdrawn
Halfway house
Suspended as a priest

Summary
On February 8, 1994, the Diocese of Pittsburgh was informed that allegations had been
lodged against Father Bernard J. Kaczmarczyk concerning sexual abuse of at least three minors.
These allegations were investigated by the Diocese and deemed to be credible.

On February 8, 1994, the Coordinator of Clergy Support Services received a telephone
call from a female who allegd that Kaczmarczyk had sexually abused her three nephews, ages
11, 14 and 15. She explained that she and her entire family had been life-long friends with
Kaczmarczyk and had total access to the rectory because of their relationship with him. She
stated that her nephews were sexually abused by Kaczmarczyk at the rectory in Donora and also
at his home in Florida.

The caller reported that when her oldest nephew was approximately 12 years old,
Kaczmarczyk would meet with him every day in Kaczmarczyk' s bedroom. Kaczmarczyk would
also go into the bathroom when her nephew was showering to make sure he was "showering
properly." She also reported that her nephew would frequently sleep with Kaczmarczyk, who
wore his sister's dresses as pajamas.
One morning her oldest nephew awoke to find Kaczmarczyk performing oral sex on him.
Kaczmarczyk was very controlling of the boy and would slap him if he said anything about it.
Kaczmarczyk often bought things for the child and had the child's name on some bank accounts.

672

 Summary
At one point all three boys and their mother moved to Florida with Kaczmarczyk. When
the mother moved back to Donora, Kaczmarczyk insisted that the two oldest boys stay in Florida
with him. The caller reported that a detective went to the house and later called the boy's mother
to inform her that Kaczmarczyk was "using all three boys."

The woman went on to state in June, 1992, Kaczmarczyk had her nephew make a
"Consecration to the Mystical Rose" and had him wear a rosary ring on his left hand. (There
were notes in the file that suggested that this was some sort of marriage ceremony, similar to
vows, between the boy and Kaczmarczyk).

The woman reported that she spoke with the mother of her nephews on February 11,
1994. According to the mother, her children became involved with Kaczmarczyk when her
oldest son was approximately seven -years -old. Kaczmarczyk then trained him as an altar boy
when he was around 10 years of age and he began staying overnight at the rectory with
Kaczmarczyk. When her son was between the ages of 10 and 12, he recalled waking up in the
morning with his underwear removed and found Kaczmarczyk kneeling next to his bed.
From October 1992 through February 1993, the mother stated that she and her boys lived
in Florida to help Kaczmarczyk. Thereafter, Kaczmarczyk insisted that her two oldest boys stay
in Florida with him (approximately two more weeks.) Her oldest son later told her that there
was an occasion when he woke up and Kaczmarczyk was performing oral sex on him. He also
told her that once he woke up and Kaczmarczyk was trying to "put his penis in his butt."
Kaczmarczyk also gave him wine to help him sleep. He told his mother that Kaczmarczyk did
not want him looking at girls and that he and Kaczmarczyk had taken vows which he wanted
the boy to renew every year.

673

 Reverend Joseph D. Karabin
Biographical Information
YEAR OF BIRTH:
YEAR OF DEATH:
ORDINATION:

1947

N/A
May 4, 1974

Employment/Assignment History
1974
1979
1980
1980
1981
1986

1979
- 1980
-

- 1981
- 1986
- 2002

Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Midland, PA
St. Joan of Arc, Library, PA
St. Joseph the Worker, New Castle, PA
Holy Name, Duquesne, PA
St. Albert the Great, Baldwin, PA
Braddock Hospital, Braddock , PA

Summary
In March 1980, the Diocese of Pittsburgh received a report from a victim who was
sexually abused by Father Joseph D. Karabin while Karabin was assigned to St. Joan of Arc.
Bishop Vincent Leonard then sent a letter to the House of Affirmation, a treatment center,
notifying them that Karabin would arrive on March 25, 1980 for an evaluation with respect to
the "incident" which Leonard advised he did not want to describe in the letter. Karabin was
returned to active ministry after he completed treatment.
In March, 1985, Father Raymond Froelich, Pastor of St. Albert the Great where Karabin
was assigned as Parochial Vicar, notified Bishop Bevilacqua of another child whom Father

Karabin had sexually abused.
On March 7, 1985, two memorandums by Bishop Bosco documented a meeting held
between himself and Karabin in with respect to the new report. Bosco advised Karabin that he
would have to be reassigned due to the complaint. Karabin agreed, but "did not seem happy"
with the possibility that his reassignment may not be immediate due to this being a "recurrence
of a previous problem." According to Karabin, this "latest incident" was caused by stress he
was under from not having his own pastorate. He related that if he was assigned as a pastor of
a parish, it would prevent him from "acting out." Handwritten notes by Bishop Bevilacqua on
one of the memorandums stated, among other things, "I do not feel Father Karabin should be
given another immediate assignment after leaving his present one. There should be some sign
to him that what he did was very grave."

Diocesan records contained undated handwritten notes that appeared to have been written
by Father Dattilo in 1985 after the second report of sexual abuse by Karabin had been received
by the Diocese. Among other things, Dattilo made the following notations:

674

 Summary
"How is the Diocese liable for his actions?"
"It is best he hear this in therapy and that we be honest about his status
and not protect him."
"What is his standing in the Diocese after 2 incidents?"
"Is not like an alcoholic mistake. Can mean jail & scandal & lawsuit."
"Joe [Karabin] wants to know if the incident was reported. Does he have
a record? Can legal action be taken
for how long?"
On March 13, 1985, Karabin was sent to St. Luke Institute for evaluation and treatment.

From April 1985 through September 1985, the Diocese documented that St. Luke
Insttitute advised that Karabin was not a pedophile but had a "homosexual interest in boys 15 18" and that the "two incidents" of "acting out" were partially due to alcohol. However, because
the initial treatment center in 1980 advised Karabin that he was not an alcoholic, this "confused
him and gave him permission to drink." Furthermore, it was noted that because the treatment
center informed him that he was not a homosexual, this "gave him permission to act out
sexually."

The records also contained handwritten notes from August 27, 1985 which appeared to
have been written by Dattilo with respect to Karabin. Among other things, the notes documented
that approximately two weeks prior to Easter in 1985, an eighth grade boy reported to Father
Froelich that Karabin had "touched him in private parts" and that he was afraid of Karabin.
On April 24, 1989, a letter was sent from the Western Regional Office of Children,
Youth, and Families ("WROCYF") to Bishop Wuerl documenting a meeting held on November
16, 1988 between WROCYF, Diocesan representatives and counsel for the Diocese. Among
other things, the WROCYF advised Wuerl that the Diocese was considered to be a mandated
reporter of child sexual abuse and was therefore required to report any suspected abuse
immediately. Further, the WROCYF advised that the Diocese was not permitted to conduct its
own internal investigation to determine whether or not to report such abuse, but was required to
report it immediately on becoming aware of it.
On June 30, 1989, a letter was sent by Wuerl to the Vatican with respect to other priests
recently accused of child sexual abuse. Wuerl advised the Vatican of actions taken against the
priests, details of the Diocesan policies for dealing with the sexual abuse of children by priests,
and his own judgements in regards to the serious nature of child sexual abuse. Further, Wuerl
advised that due to the scandal caused by these priests, he initiated a review of any previous
cases of Diocesan priests who had been accused of "pedophilic activities" with minors. He
stated that Bishops and Dioceses could become liable once they were made aware of sexual
abuse complaints; that priests who denied the "crime" of pedophilic activity with minors was
"common in pedophiles;" that pedophilia was "incurable;" and that the "unassignability" of a
priest must rest solely with the Bishop. This was due to "parents who have a moral right to
expect chaste conduct from the priest," and the parishioners who "would be gravely unsettled
and scandalized in the knowledge that a priest pedophile has been assigned in their midst."

675

 Summary
On October 30, 1991, Father Robert Guay, Secretary for Clergy and Religious and Vicar
for Clergy, met with a third victim who advised that he had been sexually abused by Karabin.
The victim advised that when he was approximately 13 to 14 -years -old and an altar boy, Karabin
undressed him, fondled him, and attempted anal sex with him.

On November 1, 1991, Guay and then -Bishop David Zubik met with Karabin with
respect to the latest report. Karabin advised that he made a sexual pass at the victim and although
he did not remember touching him, this "isn't to say he didn't" and that he was in an "alcoholic
stupor" at the time. Karabin then admitted to sexually abusing two additional boys as well.
From the handwritten notes in the file, it appears that Karabin may have been referring to the
two previous cases set forth above.
On April 23, 1993, Guay sent a letter to Karabin with respect to recent work that Karabin
had been performing. Guay advised that Wuerl was "very much concerned" that

such activities, while helpful in conveying the message ofpriests in recovery and
ministry, might eventually compromise your ministry as well as the diocese
should the anonymity ever be broken.
Guay advised that he believed that Wuerl was "very nervous about this."
On June 21, 1993, Karabin sent a handwritten letter to Wuerl requesting an assignment
to a parish. Included on the letter were separate handwritten notes that appear to state that the
"circle of secrecy has to be broken- if you want another assignment- if not work in our confines,"
"Can't make us responsible for his viewpoint," "Recognition from himself or others," "Dignity,"
"Policy- this is what he has to do."
On July 1, 1997, Karabin sent a handwritten letter to Wuerl requesting an assignment as
pastor of the Risen Lord. Separate handwritten notes on the letter stated, "I met w Joe on July
3 and shared with him that Bishop Wuerl feels that it is best that he remain at Braddock Hospital
and that Joe keep a 'low profile'."

Diocesan records contained a September 5, 1997 a memorandum that was sent to Zubik
from Father Ruggiero. Ruggiero advised that, "There is nothing in our file relating to the more
recent allegation you spoke of made by a college youth who met Father Karabin at Braddock
Hospital."
On January 6, 2002, an article detailing the Catholic Church practice of reassigning
priests accused of sexual abuse of children was published in the Boston Globe. Several weeks
later on February 22, 2002, Father John Rushofsky, Director of Clergy Personnel, sent a letter
to Father Thomas Wagner at Good Shepherd advising him that Wuerl had appointed Karabin as
Chaplain to the residents and staff at the Vincentian Home and Vincentian Regency, effective
February 25, 2002. However, on February 28, 2002, letters were sent from Rushofsky advising
that Wuerl had withdrawn this appointment. That same day, Father James Young, Episcopal
Vicar for Clergy and Religious, sent a letter to Karabin advising him that Wuerl had withdrawn
676

 Summary
his

faculties

and

that

he

was

no

longer

a

priest

in

good

standing.

Wuerl sent Karabin a letter dated July 16, 2002 wherein he advised that Karabin's
resignation had been accepted. However, Wuerl further advised that "I assure you that your
sustenance needs and benefits will continue according to the norms of law."
On November 2, 2004, a Votum to the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith was
submitted to the Vatican by Wuerl documenting Karabin's history. Wuerl requested that
Karabin's withdrawal from active ministry be accepted by the Congregation. Wuerl noted that
Karabin continued to receive his sustenance and health benefits. The request was accepted. In
a letter to Wuerl dated April 4, 2005, the Congregation noted that it had decided that Wuerl' s
methods to "deal with the issue at hand are canonically and pastorally sound." The letter further
noted that the "incident" of abuse, "while serious in nature, occurred over twenty-five years ago
and at a time when the priest was in an alcoholic stupor."
On November 3, 2004, Father Young sent a letter to Karabin wherein Karabin was
advised that his current sustenance payments would be reduced to the normal amount of $750
per month, plus his other benefits of health insurance, room, board, and residence. His monthly
sustenance had been equal to his full salary from the time he was placed on administrative leave
on February 28, 2002 until this date.

On July 20, 2006, Diocesan personnel sent a confidential memorandum to Bishop
Bradley advising him that Karabin had requested to move out of the Cardinal Dearden Center
and into his sister's home. Karabin requested that the $475 per month cost to house him at the
Center be added to his continued sustenance payments and paid directly to him once he moved.
The Clergy Task Force approved this request.
On October 1, 2007 Father David Bonnar, Secretary for Parish Life and Ministerial
Leadership, sent a letter to Karabin. In the letter, he stated that the Pittsburgh Post -Gazette had
recently published an article that named a number of priests allegedly involved in cases of sexual
abuse that prompted lawsuits against the Diocese. Bonnar advised, "Please know that the
Diocese of Pittsburgh did not furnish the names for this article."

677

 Brother John Keegan
Biographical Information
YEAR OF BIRTH:
YEAR OF DEATH:
ORDINATION:

1925

Unknown
Unknown

Employment/Assignment History
Unknown

Summary
In April 2014, an adult male contacted the Diocese of Pittsburgh to report that from 1957
through 1961, while he was a student at North Catholic High School, Keegan fondled his
genitals and masturbated him. He stated that Keegan asked to meet with him monthly and that
is when the abuse occurred. The allegation was shared with the Marianist Provincial and the
Allegheny County District Attorney's Office.
In May 2014 an adult male reported to the Diocese that Keegan fondled his genitals in
1958 or 1959 while he was a student at North Catholic High School. This report was shared
with the the Marianist Provincial and the Allegheny County District Attorney's Office.

A second report was made to the Diocese in May 2014 about Keegan. A male alleged
that in 1958 or 1959, while he was a student at North Catholic High School, Keegan fondled his
genitals. Keegan also provided him with an "obscene, vile sexual script" in order for him to
become erect. When he could not become erect, he left Keegan. The allegation was shared with
the Marianist Provincial and the Allegheny County District Attorney's Office.
A third allegation against Keegan was made to the Diocese that same month (May 2014).
A male alleged that in 1958 or 1959, Keegan fondled his genitals when he was a minor attending
North Catholic High School. This report was shared with the Marianist Provincial and the
Allegheny County District Attorney's Office.
In May, 2014, a fourth adult male reported incidents to the Diocese involving Keegan
and Brother Hildebrand. The male stated that from 1956 through 1960, Keegan fondled his
genitals when he was a minor attending North Catholic High School. Keegan also offered to
"examine" the male's penis because of the male's masturbation habits. The male further
reported that Hildebrand asked him whether he ever saw his sister naked. Hildebrand then
attempted to fondle him sexually. These allegations were shared with the Marianist Provincial

and the Allegheny County District Attorney's Office.
A fifth allegation was reported to the Diocese in May 2014 by an adult male. He stated
that when he was a student at North Catholic High School from 1958 through 1959, Keegan
678

 Summary
spoke with him in a very sexual manner. Keegan also asked him what he thought about men
having sex together. He further reported that Brother Meder, who ran the cafeteria, would
provide minor children with pop and candy and then require them to sit on his lap while he was
seated in his rocking chair. The male stated that he could feel Meder' s erection through his
pants. These reports were shared with the Marianist Provincial and the Allegheny County
District Attorney's Office.
In May 2014, the Diocese received a sixth complaint about Keegan. An adult male
reported that when he was a student in 1958 or 1959 at North Catholic High School, Keegan
fondled his gentials. He also stated that Keegan asked to examine his genitals while they were
together in the band pit area at the school. The allegation was shared with the Marianist
Provincial and the Allegheny County District Attorney's Office.

679

 Summary
In a St. Bernadine Clinic report dated May 28, 1987,
admitted to
enagaging in relationships with parishioners, but did not specify whether they were sexual or
non -sexual in nature. He stated that he became aware of his constant struggle to meet his
affectionate needs without violating the norm of celibacy. He admitted to affectionate interest
in a teenager whom he met when she was 15 years of age. He stated that they did not become
romantically involved until she was "close to her 18th birthday."
acknowledged that the
age disparity and his priestly role made the relationship somewhat inappropriate.

=

680

REDACTED -- ONGOING APPELLATE
LITIGATION

 Reverend Henry Krawczyk
Biographical Information
YEAR OF BIRTH:
YEAR OF DEATH:
ORDINATION:

1952

N/A
September 30, 1978

Employment/Assignment History
10/09/1978 - 6/28/1983
Parochial Vicar, St. Mary, McKeesport, PA
6/29/1983 - 6/12/1988
Parochial Vicar, Our Lady of Joy, Pittsburgh, PA
6/13/1988 - 10/26/1992
Parochial Vicar, St. Therese, Munhall, PA
10/26/1992 - 10/31/1994
Team Ministry, St. Maximillian, Homestead, PA
10/31/1994 - 6/23/2003
Pastor, St. Maximillian, Homestead, PA
6/23/2003 - Present

Administrative Leave

Summary
A review of Diocesan records revealed an internal document entitled "File Review" that
contained the following three allegations against Father Henry Krawczyk:
1.

On October 19, 1986, a mother filed a complaint against Krawczyk for
providing alcohol and marijuana to minors and for making sexual
advances towards those minors (including her son). Krawczyk only
admitted to providing alcohol to minors.

2.

On August 24, 1988, a complaint was filed against Krawczyk for
providing alcohol to minors at a graduation party where no other adults
were present.

3.

On November 2, 1992, a mother filed a complaint against Krawczyk for
drinking alcohol with her underage son.

In February 2005, Krawczyk pled guilty to one count of involuntary manslaughter. The
charge stemmed from a cookout that Krawczyk hosted on June 17, 2003 wherein he supplied
alcohol to several underage University of Pittsburgh football players. One of the players fell
from the roof of St. Anne to his death.

In November 2006, the Diocese of Pittsburgh drafted a confidential memorandum
pertaining to an allegation of sexual abuse against Krawczyk. Two brothers reported that
Krawczyk engaged in sexual activity with their younger brother. Their younger brother told
them that he and Krawczyk would frequently get high and drunk together. On one occasion, he
passed out and awoke to Krawczyk performing oral sex on him. He committed suicide in

681

 August, 2006. The brothers requested that the Diocese pay and/or reimburse them for their
brother's drug treatment as well as funeral expenses. These requests were granted.

682

 Summary
received in
, an anonymous
had asked several
before
No further documentation was provided about the allegation.

In an undated, handwritten letter to

sender advised that
and after

an allegation of sexual abuse was made against
County Distict Attorney's Office, it was reported that

In the complaint

A report was issued by the Diocesan Review Board.
Recommendations included the following:

Their Findings and

In

to the

I
I
I

I
683

REDACTED -- ONGOING APPELLATE
LITIGATION

 Reverend Edward L. Kryston
Biographical Information
YEAR OF BIRTH:
YEAR OF DEATH:
ORDINATION:

1946

N/A
May 4, 1974

Employment/Assignment History
5/30/1974-6/17/1979
6/18/1979-10/05/1980
10/06/1980-7/15/1984
7/16/1984-6/12/1988
6/13/1988-6/21/1989
6/22/1989-1/11/1996
1/17/1996-9/23/1996
9/23/1996-8/27/1999
8/27/1999 -

Assistant, St. Luke, Carnegie, PA
Assistant, St. John, Unity, PA
Assistant, St Pius X, Pittsburgh, PA
Parochial Vicar, St. Martin, Pittsburgh, PA
Parochial Vicar, Our Lady of Joy, Holiday Park, PA
Parochial Vicar, Holy Trinity, Moon Run, PA
Leave of Absence
Parochial Vicar, St. Albert the Great, Baldwin, PA
Pastor, St. Albert the Great, Baldwin, PA

Summary
On May 1, 1984, a letter was sent to Bishop Bevilacqua from Father Thomas Marpes of
St. Pius X regarding his associate, Father Edward L. Kryston. In part, the letter stated:

His major problem is his inordinate interest and association for and with grade
school girls. Many unsavory remarks have been made to me relevant to this
situation. He has even had these "little" girls in his room, behind closed doors.
At times the girls have been of high school age. Climaxing all of this a few
months ago was the incident involving a High School Junior girl, whom he took
to his room. Evidently, advances were made which terrified her. The next day
she reported this incident to her CCD teacher, who is a very fine person with
shock, surprise, etc. The CCD teacher and the Religious Education Coordinator
came to me with troubled minds. I suggested she write to Bishop Bosco. In the
meantime, I spoke to Bishop Bosco about the problem, and he requested to speak
to the teacher personally about the same matter. At this point it has been referred
to Father Campbell. It is my understanding that Father Kryston has had this
problem for some time.
On May 3, 1984, a letter was sent to the Diocese of Pittsburgh from the president of the
St. Pius Parish Council. A portion of the letter stated:
Your Excellency, Over the past 2 1/2 years, I have received several complaints, as
President of St. Pius X Parish Council, about one associate pastor, Father

684

 Summary
Edward Kryston. The complaints deal with his negative attitude, his lack of
concern for the Parish, and his seemingly strong interest in young women.
On May 17, 1984, Father Philip Campbell questioned Kryston "regarding complaints
that had been received by Bishop Bosco regarding his conduct with young women." Kryston
denied any inappropriate conduct or behavior. There was a notation in the memorandum that
Kryston admitted that he took girls into his room to watch television. However, Kryston stated
that the girls were always in "groups." At the conclusion of the meeting, Campbell sent a letter
to Bevilacqua, recommending that Kryston be transferred. Kryston was then transferred to St.

Martin.
On November 1, 1984, a letter was sent to Bevilacqua from Judith Kanya, a CCD teacher
associated with St. Pius. The letter stated:

Last December one of my CCD students talked to me about how to handle a priest
who was making passes at her. After talking to our Pastor Father Marpes and
at his request writing to Bishop Bosco and then talking to him around February
1, 1984, I was assured that something would be done. In July, Kryston, the priest
in question, was transferred to another parish. I was very prayerful that he was
getting help with this problem. But I have been very concerned that he was just
moved to shut me up. He has returned to St. Pius on many occasions and last
Saturday he came to our home football game with four teenage girls (I did not
know the girls so they were not from St. Pius) and sat at the game with a group
of our young teenage girls. I keep worrying about these girls.
I really feel
disappointed in the hierarchy of the church that this problem is being glossed
over
why is this being covered up?"
.

.

.

.

.

On December 17, 1985, Father Dattilo wrote notes pertaining to a meeting he had with
Mona Rush, a CCD teacher. Rush reported that she was concerned about Kryston's attention to
eighth and ninth grade girls, while ignoring boys. Rush advised that Kryston invited girls to the
rectory to talk at 11:15 p.m. He also circled the block of a young girl and then invited her to
accompany him alone on a shopping trip. By January 7, 1986, Dattilo documented additional
concerns regarding Kryston, including "drinking and fooling around with girls," arranging a
dinner for two in the rectory with an eighth grade girl, and asking a CCD class how they would
feel if they were naked answering the telephone.
On November 8, 1995, a meeting was held with Father Guay, Father Zubik, Rita Flaherty
and the mother of an eighth grade school girl. The mother reported that her daughter recently
attended a school dance. Kryston was at the dance and encouraged the boys and girls to dance
together. During the dance, Kryston reportedly lifted up two different school girls by grabbing
them by the buttocks.

By November 15, 1995, additional information was obtained by Diocesan officials
regarding Kryston' s actions at this same school dance. The additional information came from
the mother of a 13 -year -old girl. The girl reported that she felt uncomfortable with the way
685

 Summary
Kryston was holding her during a dance. Later, Kryston grabbed her buttocks as she walked by
the DJ booth. The girl went home and cried over the incident. It was learned that Kryston
committed a similar indecent assault on another seventh grade girl. Additionally, it was learned
that Kryston had invited an 11 -year -old girl to his room. It was reported that there were
pornographic magazines under Kryston' s bed and that he had pictures of a young girl from the
school on his wall. The young girl in the photographs was situated in various poses, such as
sitting under a tree, in a bikini The identity of this girl was known and it was reported to the
Diocese that Kryston had invited the girl on an overnight trip to an amusement park. They were
to share the same motel room. The young girl's parents refused to give Kryston permission to
take their daughter on the trip, however.
On November 27, 1995, Flaherty placed a telephone call to Sister Mary Ann Lostoski,
Principal of the Holy Trinity school. Sister Mary Ann reported that Kryston was always around
seventh and eighth grade girls and often smelled of alcohol. She added that a family had left
the school because of Kryston' s interest in school girls. Sister Mary Ann stated that she did not
"want her [Sister Mary Ann] name used" regarding this information.
On December 4, 1995, Guay, Zubik and Flaherty held a meeting with Kryston. Kryston
was asked about his actions at the school dance. He "did not deny' dancing with the two girls.
He acknowledged physical contact, but "denied any sexual intent." It was then explained to
Kryston that he would be placed on administrative leave until he was evaluated at St. Luke
Institute.
On December 28, 1995, the Diocese received an evaluation report from St. Luke's. The
report indicated that there was a disparity between Kryston's self-report and the observations of
others. The report stated that there was reason for "extreme caution" and that Kryston was at
risk and in need of much support. It was recommended that he enter residential treatment as
soon as possible and it was "very important that he have NO contact with adolescents."
On July 26, 1996, Flaherty sent a letter to St. Luke's regarding the release of Kryston
from treatment. There was a question as to whether or not the issue of "ephebophilia" had been
decided, because this issue would contribute to the decision about Kryston's "assignability."
By August 14, 1996, Kryston was released from St. Luke's and living with his mother in the
Pittsburgh area. On August 26, 1996, Flaherty received a letter from St. Luke's that advised
that "treatment did not identify ephebophilia;" however, it would be wise to err on the side of
caution and avoid ministry focused specifically with junior or high school students, and to avoid
situations of being alone with vulnerable women. Flaherty forwarded this information to Bishop
Wuerl.
On August 31, 1996, Wuerl met with Kryston regarding Kryston's return to active
ministry. Thereafter, on September 17, 1996, Wuerl appointed Kryston as parochial vicar at St.
Albert the Great. The effective date of this appointment was September 23, 1996.

686

 Summary
On February 28, 2002, Wuerl placed Kryston on administrative leave and assigned him
to a residence at St. John Vianney Manor, a retirement home for priests. Situated on the same
property and in close proximity to the retirement home is Bishop Canevin High School.
On August 4, 2002, Kryston wrote to Wuerl and asked for permission to withdraw from
active ministry. On August 9, 2002, Wuerl granted Kryston permission to withdraw, while at
the same time assuring him that the Diocese would continue to pay for his sustenance and
benefits.
On May 17, 2016, Father Mark Eckman sent a letter to Kryston advising Kryston that he
could continue to live at St. John Vianney.

687

 Reverend Anujit Kumar
Biographical Information
YEAR OF BIRTH:
YEAR OF DEATH:
ORDINATION:

1954

N/A
04/13/2002

Employment/Assignment History
4/13 2002
9/2008

Parochial Vicar, India
Missionary, St. Joan of Arc, South Park, PA

Summary
In September 2008 an allegation of sexual abuse was made against Father Anujit Kumar
to the Allegheny County District Attorney's Office. A minor female reported that Kumar had
kissed her on her lips several times using his "tongue" and was "sucking her lips." He then
asked for her telephone number and gave her his business card along with a gift. Several other
altar servers witnessed the incident.

Kumar was interviewed by the Clergy Office concerning the incident and admitted to the
conduct. He stated that his reason for kissing her inappropriately was that he was trying to
"recruit her for the convent."
The incident was reported to the South Park Police Department but the victim and her
parents declined to go forward with prosecution.

688

 Reverend George Kurutz
Biographical Information
YEAR OF BIRTH:
YEAR OF DEATH:
ORDINATION:

1917
1977

June 11, 1944

Employment/Assignment History
9/21/1944 - 11/08/1944
St. Stephen, Pittsburgh, PA
11/09/1944 - 6/25/1952
St. Joseph, West Aliquippa/St. Catherine Parish, Wireton, PA
6/26/1952 - 6/15/1955
St. George, South Side, PA
6/16/1955 - 10/05/1955
Holy Trinity, McKeesport, PA
10/06/1955 - 4/10/1960
Immaculate Conception, Washington, PA
4/11/1960 - 5/30/1961
Our Lady of Consolation, Nemacolin/St. Mary Parish,
5/31/1961
5/08/1965
6/07/1967
9/01/1976

- 5/07/1965
- 6/06/1967
- 8/31/1976

Crucible/Sacred Heart, Rices Landing, PA
St Lawrence O'Toole, Pittsburgh, PA
St. Michael, New Castle PA
St. Helen, East Pitsburgh, PA
Resigned

Summary
Diocesan records contained a handwritten letter dated June 15, 1996 indicating that the
Diocese of Pittsburgh had received a telephone call from a 47 -year-old female who stated that
she and her sister were molested by Father George Kurutz in the late 1950's and early 1960's.
The caller stated that Kurutz came into a room and laid with her. He put his hands under her
shirt and squeezed her close to him. She stated that their mother sent them with Kurutz to his
new parish in New Castle when she was in sixth grade. She believed that is when he laid with
her and fondled her. She reported that more serious incidents occurred with her sister. She also
advised that her sister walked in on their mother performing oral sex on Kurutz. Her sister
stated, "Mother knew what was going on and she did nothing to stop it, no one helped me."

689

 Reverend Fidelis Lazar
Biographical Information
YEAR OF BIRTH:
YEAR OF DEATH:
ORDINATION:

1936

N/A
August 15, 1963

Employment/Assignment History
1966 - 1969
St. Vincent / Latrobe, Instructor
1970
1975

-1975

- 1976
08/16/1976 - 03/22/1981
03/23/1981 - 07/07/1982
07/08/1982 - 05/31/1984
06/01/1984 - 06/13/1986
06/14/1984 - 04/23/1987
04/23/1987 - 09/25/1989
09/25/1989

St. Bede / Bovard, Instructor
Sacred Heart / St. Mary, Instructor
St. Clare / Clairton, Parochial Vicar
St. Joan of Arc / Library, Parochial Vicar
St. Mary / New Castle, Parochial Vicar
St. Joseph / Bloomfield, Parochial Vicar
St. Teresa / Koppel, Parochial Vicar

Leave of Absence
Withdrew from active priestly ministry

Summary
In October 1986, the Diocese of Pittsburgh received a report from an adolescent male
that he had been sexually abused by Father Fidelis Lazar in June, 1986. Lazar took this victim
on overnight trips. They slept in the same bed. The victim stated Lazar kissed him and began
touching the child's genitals. While in bed, Lazar pulled the victim close to him, close enough
the victim felt the erect penis of Lazar.
In the same confidential summary, it was noted by Diocesan officials that Father
Nicholas Dattilo, then Secretary for Clergy, confronted Lazar about the sexual abuse allegation.
Lazar initially denied the allegation, stating the family was "troubled" and was singling him out.
Dattilo sent Lazar to a Diocesan treatment facility for evaluation in November 1987. While in
treatment, the Diocese documented the summaries provided by the treating doctors. It was noted
that Lazar admitted being sexually active with children after his ordination.

Lazar took a personal leave of absence from ministry citing health reasons. In
September 1989, he withdrew from active ministry. The Bishop determined Lazar could not
continue in ministry due to the allegation and his diagnosis of Ephebophilia. Ephebophilia is
the primary sexual interest in mid -to -late adolescents.
In September 1994, another male contacted the Diocese and gave an in -person account
of his abuse by Lazar. He reported that he was only 15 or 16 years of age when Lazar sexually
molested him. He explained that Lazar had befriended his family There were many incidents

690

 Summary
where Lazar would kiss him, remove his pants and fondle his penis. This occurred when Lazar
was assigned at St. Joan of Arc.
In March 2002, the Diocese received an e-mail communication from a male asking for
the status of Lazar. This male reported that when Lazar was a Benedictine monk in the 1960's,
Lazar abused him while he was at St. Vincent's Preparatory School in Latrobe. The male was
provided with the contact information for the Archabbot of the Benedictine Monks.

691

 Summary
In
and
, the Diocese of
received letters from an
adult male who reported that he had been sexually abused by
for several
years beginning when he was
years of age. It continued until he was
years of

age.

The victim first met
after the victim's
and
became
involved with his family After awhile, they went on overnight trips together and
provided him with alcohol and "dirty" magazines. They also began sleeping together and
showering together.
then began performing oral sex on him. This abuse occurred
approximately once a month for a period of years. Once the victim turned 15 or 16 years old,
he told
he wanted the sexual activities to stop and threatened "to tell on" him. In
response,
grabbed him by the throat and threatened to kill him if he told anyone.

692

REDACTED -- ONGOING APPELLATE
LITIGATION

 Summary
also threatened to tell the victim's parents that he was gay and that he [the victim] was the one
who initiated and pursued the sexual contact with

According to the file, the victim "asked nothing of the Diocese" and that
He made no threats to sue [n] or make his allegations public. His only motivation
appeared to be to make someone in the diocese aware of what had occurred.
[The victim's] concern for his own children brought home the awareness that
might be abusing others.

Based upon the meeting with the victim and a separate telephone call with him, the
Diocese found that his "allegations were consistent in detail."

I
I
I

I

I

693

REDACTED -- ONGOING APPELLATE
LITIGATION

 then recommended that
referred to

and
or
On

,

be returned to active ministry.
time at
as being due to

a letter was sent from

to

requesting that he remain

as pastor

further requested that if the

On
other things, that

,

a confidential report sent from

to the Diocese advised, among

thereafter sent a letter to
on
back "following your leave of absence for personal reasons."
with you my joy at your return to full-time ministry."
File documents revealed that from
counseling sessions for the victim.

to

wherein he welcomed him
further advised, "I share

,

the Diocese paid for

On January 6, 2002 an article detailing the Catholic Church's practice of reassigning
priests accused of sexual abuse of children was published in the Boston Globe.
sent
a letter dated
advising him that his ministerial faculties were
restricted to
and that he was no longer permitted to function as a priest
without permission. A memorandum in the file dated
documented a
conversation between
and
wherein
'`in confidence" explained to
that it had become necessary for him to restrict
faculties. The memorandum
revealed that
advised
that "he would keep it confidential."
On
, the victim notified the Diocese again about his abuse and advised that
he was seeking compensation. In a letter to the victim dated
, the Diocese advised
him that his allegation was never fully substantiated and it had been denied by
The
Diocese further advised that because there was no clear resolution, "the priest in question is
asking to appear before the Ministerial Assessment Board for a review of this allegation." The
victim was invited to appear before the Board to tell his story.
.

694

REDACTED -- ONGOING APPELLATE
LITIGATION

 On
sent a letter to
, advising
him that the "enclosed confidential information comes by way of a friend in law
enforcement." Among other things,
provided the victim's current address and date of
birth and requested that the Diocese re -send the letter to him (as it had been returned as
undeliverable). That way, it could be demonstrated that he had been given an opportunity to
appear before the Board.
then provided details of the victim's criminal history in order
to show that he was not a "credible accuser."

Following a meeting of the Diocesan Review Board, the Board concluded that it could
not determine "with certainty" the credibility of the victim's claim. The Board recommended
that
be allowed to continue in "non -parochial ministry" without access to children, in
spite of his admission to the Board of his "attraction to minors." Included with the supporting
documents for the Board's recommendation was a four-page letter by
denying any
sexual abuse and requesting a return to ministry.
the Diocese notified the
County District Attorney's
Office of "inappropriate sexual contact that occurred sometime between
when [the
''
victim] was a minor of age
On

,

In a letter dated
, the Diocese advised the victim that
had
accepted the Board's recommendation that
be given a "limited non -parish assignment."
It should be noted that in a
that
was completed by Diocesan personnel, it was documented that the complaint against
was both internally consistent and consistent with known facts.

On
sent a letter to
.

granting him 17 faculties in his role as
These faculties included

Pennsylvania Child Abuse History Clearance was granted to
certifying that no record existed in the Pennsylvania Department of Public Welfare's statewide
central registry listing
as a perpetrator of an indicated or founded report of child abuse.
On

,

695

REDACTED -- ONGOING APPELLATE
LITIGATION

 Reverend Albert Leonard
Biographical Information
YEAR OF BIRTH:
YEAR OF DEATH:
ORDINATION:

1954

N/A
Unknown

Employment/Assignment History
1987

November 1993

Parochial Vicar, Saint Ursula, Allison Park, PA
Leave of Absence

Summary
In 1989 and 1993, the Diocese of Pittsburgh received complaints about Father Leonard's
behavior with children. In one case, parents expressed their concern about Leonard's
relationship with their 14 -year -old son. In another case, parents expressed concern about
Leonard's relationship with their minor son and reported that he swam nude with boys.

Shortly after the 1993 complaint, Leonard requested a six month leave of absence in
November, 1993.
In September 1994, Leonard attempted to onbtain employment with Holy Family
Institute. The Holy Family Institute is a residential treatment facility for children. The Diocese
disclosed information regarding Leonard's sexual history with minors to the institute. Leonard
complained to the Diocese that the disclosure of that information had hindered his employment.

The Diocese did not notify law enforcement of Leonard's conduct.

696

 Reverend Casimir F. Lewandowski
Biographical Information
YEAR OF BIRTH:
YEAR OF DEATH:
ORDINATION:

1918
1978

November 4, 1945

Employment/Assignment History
12/6/1945 - 10/23/1946
St. Matthew, Pittsburgh, PA (Southside)
10/24/1946 - 6/17/1953
St. Kieran, Pittsburgh, PA (Lawrenceville)
6/18/1953 - 9/16/1953
Mercy Hospital, Pittsburgh, PA
9/17/1953 - 6/7/1955
Catholic University, Washington, DC (Studies)
7/8/1954 - 9/1/1954
St. Leocadia Parish, Wilmerding, PA
6/16/1955 - 3/13/1964
Diocesan Charities
3/14/1964 - 12/16/1973
Madonna of Czestochowa, New Castle, PA
12/17/1973

Resigned

Summary
Diocesan records contained a confidential memorandum dated February 8, 2016, that
reflected a telephone conversation with a 64 -year -old female. She reported to the Diocese of
Pittsburgh that she was sexually abused by Father Casimir F. Lewandowski when she was
approximately 12 years of age and in sixth grade. The incident occurred when he was assigned
to Madonna of Czestochowa.
The female reported that she recalled walking upstairs in the rectory with Lewandowski.
She was wearing a yellow dress. She recalled his erect penis and semen on her dress. He said
to her, "You are a dirty little girl, aren't you?" The Diocese informed her that the Lawrence
County District Attorney's Office would need to be contacted. The Diocese reimbursed her for
the cost of years of therapy.

697

 Reverend John P. Maloney
Biographical Information
YEAR OF BIRTH:
YEAR OF DEATH:
ORDINATION:

1938
2007
May 9, 1964

Employment/Assignment History
5/27/1964 - 6/01/1971
Nativity of Our Lord, Pittsburgh, PA
6/02/1971 - 9/30/1973
St. Phillip, Pittsburgh, PA
10/01/1973 - 2/04/1979
St. Kieran, Pittsburgh, PA
2/05/1979 - 10/12/1982
St. Michael, Pittsburgh, PA
10/13/1982 - 9/03/2004

Holy Sepulcher, Butler, PA

Summary
On January 7, 2004, the Diocese of Pittsburgh received a report from an adult male that
he had been sexually abused as a child by Father John P. Maloney beginning when he was in
the eighth grade. The male explained that he was one of nine children and that his father passed
away in November 1970, leaving the family with financial difficulties. He, along with his
brothers and sisters, obtained part-time jobs to assist the family financially. His job was to
deliver newspapers and one of his stops was at the rectory of St. Philip. When he would deliver
the paper, Maloney would sometimes invite him into the rectory to sit and talk. This usually
occurred around 5:30-6:00 AM. The male reported that during these times together, Maloney
would take photographs of him. At first, he was fully clothed when photographed but it
eventually progressed to Maloney taking pictures of him in his underwear. He stated that after
this started to occur, he woke up around 3:00 a.m. when the papers arrived so that he could
deliver the paper before Maloney awoke. He stated that while this plan worked sometimes,
there were other times when. Maloney would still grab him by his arm and bring him into the
rectory. He further reported that when he brought his younger brother along with him, Maloney
would just have his brother wait in another room. Eventually, he told his mother about the
abuse, but she did not believe him. The abuse continued until he was a freshman in high school.

The male stated that he was not reporting the abuse for financial gain. He explained that
he wanted to protect his family from discovering the evidence of the embarrassing photograaphs
taken of him and to prevent such actions in the future.

When confronted with the allegations that he had taken photographs of the male,
Maloney stated that he did ask the boy to take his shirt off to show his muscles. Maloney denied
that he took photographs of the boy in his underwear or that he had any sexual contact with him.
Maloney contended that he did not do anything inappropriate.

698

 Summary
On January 9, 2004, the Diocese placed Maloney on administrative leave and he resigned
as pastor at Holy Sepulcher. On September 3, 2004, Maloney's priestly faculties were

withdrawn by Bishop Donald Wuerl.
The male reported that after the abuse by Maloney, he befriended a priest at Canevin by
the name of "Dom McGee." McGee was a teacher of his freshman religion class and became a
family friend who would come to their house two or three times per month for dinner or to watch
a Steelers game. McGee provided him with counselling with respect to the abuse. However,
McGee then began abusing him. He recalled McGee taking him to Williamsburg once. He
stated that there was a lot of hugging that occurred; however, at that particular time, he did not
really think anything of it. He then stated that when he was a sophomore around the year 1973,
he went to the home of McGee' s parents to help McGee paint. While there, he went into the
bathroom to use the toilet while McGee was in the shower. McGee became extremely upset
that he had entered into the bathroom. McGee got out of the shower and then grabbed him,
pulled his pants down and masturbated him. McGee then said, "Now how do you like that, don't
you ever walk in on me again!"
The male also reported that McGee molested his brother. On January 15, 2004, his
brother reported to Father Canice Connors and Rita Flaherty that he had been groped by McGee
on one occasion while sitting on the couch with him, watching television. He stated that he fell
asleep and awoke to find McGee groping his genitals. He also stated that there was a time when
he and another boy went to Erie with McGee and McGee encouraged them to undress along
with him behind a picnic pavilion so that they could go swimming He recalled that he and the
other boy were embarrassed to undress in front of McGee. Finally, he recalled a time in class
when McGee made each child talk about their sexual experiences. He stated that he so
embarrassed that he never said a word during that class or any other time.

699

 Brother Julius May
Biographical Information
YEAR OF BIRTH:
YEAR OF DEATH:
ORDINATION:

Unknown
1970

N/A

Employment/Assignment History
Summary
In May 2011, an adult male reported when he was a student at North Catholic High
School durnng the 1963-1964 school year, he had developed a medical condition known as
orchitis which is a form of mumps that settles in the testicles. He stated that Brother Julis May,
who was a counselor at the high school, demanded to conduct a medical examination of his
genitals. He refused and left May's office.
In May 2014, a 66 -year -old male reported that he was inappropriately touched by May
when he was a student at North Catholic High School during the 1962-1963 school year. He
accused May of running his hand up his pant leg. The young man left before May touched his
genital area. When he informed the principal of May's actions, the principal passed off the
experience as May just being friendly.

The files indicated that the Diocese attempted to reach out to the victims with respect to
counseling services.

700

 Reverend Dominic McGee
Biographical Information
YEAR OF BIRTH:
YEAR OF DEATH:
ORDINATION:

Unknown
Unknown
Unknown

Employment/Assignment History
Unknown

Summary
The Grand Jury was provided little to no information on Father McGee. The only
documents that were provided were three internal Diocese of Pittsburgh memorandums. The
memorandums revealed that in January 2004 a sexual allegation was made against McGee
wherein an adult male alleged that McGee masturbated him when he was a high school student
in the early to mid -1970's at Canevin High School in Allegheny County. The male's younger
brother further advised that McGee groped his genitals while he slept on a couch.
These allegations were shared with the Allegheny County District Attorney's Office.

701

 Reverend Donald W. Mcllvane
Biographical Information
YEAR OF BIRTH:
YEAR OF DEATH:
ORDINATION:

1925

2014
June 7, 1952

Employment/Assignment History
6/26/1952-6/12/1957
6/13/1957-10/31/1960
11/01/1960-6/26/1962
6/27/1962-4/20/1966
4/21/1966-6/07/1976
6/08/1976-11/22/1985
11/23/1985-6/01/1992
6/01/1992-12/01/1992
12/01/1992-1/22/1993
1/22/1993-6/27/1994
6/27/1994-12/30/1994
9/29/2008-12/15/2008

Parochial Vicar, St. Stephen, Pittsburgh, PA
Parochial Vicar, St. Paul Cathedral, Pittsburgh, PA
Parochial Vicar, Resurrection, Pittsburgh, PA
Chaplain Correctional Institution, Allegheny County Jail
Administrator, St. Richard, Pittsburgh, PA
Pastor, Corpus Christi, Pittsburgh, PA
Pastor, Presentation of Virgin Mary, Midland, PA
Sabbatical at St. John Fisher, Pittsburgh, PA
Awaiting Assignment at St. John Fisher, Pittsburgh, PA
Parochial Vicar (Part-time), St. John Fisher, Pittsburgh, PA
Chaplain, Motherhouse at Sisters of Divine Providence,
Allison Park, PA
Leave of Absence

Summary
On July 22, 2008, the Diocese of Pittsburgh received a letter from a 43 -year -old man
who reported that in 1973, he was in the third grade at St. Richard's and served as an altar boy.
On one particular day that year, he was not feeling well and Father Donald W. McIIvane escorted
him up to a bedroom in the rectory. After he lay down, McIIvane began to rub his stomach and
thighs. McIIvane then started to rub his penis through his clothing and his penis became erect.
McIIvane then unzipped his pants and performed oral sex on him. He was given $5.00 by
Mcllvane. The male reported that between 1973 and 1977, McIIvane performed oral sex on him
at least 40 times per year and that he was always paid afterwards with money from the parish

donations.
On September 9, 2008, the Diocese provided the male with a check in the amount of
$5,000.00 to help him through some additional financial difficulties. The money was not
intended to be considered as any type of reimbursement or "settlement" related to his claim.
On October 29, 2008, the Diocesan Review Board met and reviewed the allegations.
The Board accepted the written material submitted by the male and heard testimony from him.
The Board determined that the allegation could not be substantiated because the information
was inconclusive and unable to be verified. The Board then recommended, and Bishop Zubik

702

 Summary
accepted, that Mcllvane be restored to priestly ministry. The Board voted unanimously that
there was no semblance of truth to the allegations.
On January 20, 2009, Father David Bonnar wrote a letter to the male wherein he stated:

I am sorry that the Independent Review Board did not come back with an
outcome for which you were hoping. Nevertheless, the Diocese of Pittsburgh is
still willing to offer counseling and spiritual direction to you.

703

 Reverend Thomas McKenna
Biographical Information
YEAR OF BIRTH:
YEAR OF DEATH:
ORDINATION:

1935

Unknown
May 6, 1972

Employment/Assignment History
5/31/1972 - 5/21/1973
Parochial Vicar, St. Anselm, Swissvale, PA
5/22/1973 - 2/13/1978
Parochial Vicar, Immaculate Conception,Washington, PA
2/14/1978 - 10/01/1978
Chaplain, Marian Manor Nursing
10/02/1978 - 2/04/1979
Parochial Vicar, St. Maurice, Forest Hills, PA
11/01/1978 - 2/04/1979
Leave of absence, Health reasons
2/05/1979 - 8/15/1982
Parochial Vicar, St. Kieran, Lawrenceville, PA
8/16/1992 - 5/31/1984
Parochial Vicar, St. John Fisher, Churchill, PA
6/01/1984 - 9/11/1986
Parochial Vicar, Holy Innocents, Sheraden, PA
Chaplain, Sewickley Valley Hospital, PA
9/12/1986 - 7/21/1987
7/22/1987 - 8/22/1988
Chaplain, Forbes Regional Hospital, PA
8/22/1988 - 5/23/1994
Pastor, St. Edward, Blawnox, PA
5/23/1994 - 1/05/1998
Pastor, Our Lady of Fatima, Hopewell, PA
1/05/1998 - 7/31/1998
Chaplain, SCI - Pittsburgh, PA
8/31/1998 - 10/30/1998
Asst. Chaplain, Allegheny University Medical Center, PA
10/30/1998
Administrator, St. Patrick - St. Stanislaus, Pittsburgh, PA
9/13/2004

Withdrew from active priestly ministry

Summary
Diocesan records contained a handwritten letter dated July 28, 1992 authored by a priest
(name illegible) about sexual allegations against Father Thomas McKenna. It noted that two
teenage brothers claimed to have been sexually assaulted by McKenna in the 1970's.
An October 1996 Diocesan memorandum documented the fact that McKenna was
confronted with several allegations of improper sexual activity.
On October 18, 1999, a lawsuit was filed against McKenna by an inmate incarcerated at
the State Correctional Institution at Pittsburgh. He alleged that McKenna had sexually assaulted
him while he was in prison.
In May, 2002, the Diocese of Pittsburgh received a report from a woman who stated that
McKenna had sexually abused her son in 1975. No other documentation was found in the file.

704

 In December, 2004 a final summary of treatment for Father McKenna from St. Luke
Institute was completed. He was diagnosed with, inter alia, Ephebophilia (attraction to
teenagers).

705

 Reverend Albert McMahon
Biographical Information
YEAR OF BIRTH:
YEAR OF DEATH:
ORDINATION:

Unknown
Unknown
Unknown

Employment/Assignment History
7/05/1961- 7/01/1964
Unknown - 9/14/1967
Unknown - 2004
10/2004

Team Ministry at St. Pamphilus, Beechview, PA
Parochial Vicar at Our Lady Help of Christians, Pittsburgh, PA
Province of the Immaculate Conception, New York
Removed from active ministry

Summary
On April 22, 2004, thie Diocese of Pittsburgh received a telephone call from a 54 -year old female who reported that she was sexually abused by Father Albert McMahon when she was
approximately 11 years of age. She explained that she went to St. Pamphilus in order to play.
While there, "Father Albert" always showed her a lot of attention and that on a few occasions,
he would have her sit on his lap. He would then fondle her breasts and genitals. She noted that
Father Albert smelled of alcohol.

The Diocese contacted Father Campagna, Provincial Minister for the Province of the
Immaculate Conception, in New York where McMahon was living at the time. On October 22,
2004, Campagna sent a letter to the female which stated, in part:
Once again I need to reiterate that I have not ignored, nor disbelieved, your
accusations made against Father McMahon. If that were the case, I would not
have removed him from active ministry. At the present time, Father McMahon
does not enjoy participation in active ministerial priesthood, based solely on
your complaint . . .I also assure you, as I have from the very beginning, I
committed myself to provide for an appropriate time, access to therapeutic
counseling that will hopefully bring some healing to your life.
On January 10, 2014, a 63 -year -old adult male contacted the Diocse to report that in the
mid -1960's, when he was approximately 11 to 14 years of age, he served as an altar boy at St.
Pamphilus. That is where he met McMahon. He stated that "Father Albert" would invite the
altar boys to his friary room on Saturdays in order to wrestle. To the best of his knowledge,
Father Albert would always invite the boys to wrestle with him individually, never in a group.

The male reported that when they would wrestle, McMahon would always get on top of
him and that McMahon would always have an erection.

706

 Summary
The male was offered counseling and advised that the allegation would be forwarded to
the District Attorney's office where the incident occurred (Allegheny County).
On January 14, 2014, the Diocese sent a letter to Father Primo Piscitello, Provincial
Minister for the Province of the Immaculate Conception. The letter stated, in part:
As I promised, I am including with this letter a copy of my file memo on the
allegation I received against Father Albert McMahon, OFM. I am also including
the brief notification we make to the District Attorney's Office in Allegheny
County. As I mentioned, this is part of our policy here in the Diocese of
Pittsburgh. . . I shared with [the male] that Father Albert is no longer in ministry
given his age and current struggles with the onset of dementia. . . . I shared with
him that you had been very honest in telling me that Father Albert had complaints
about his behavior in the past but none that would be considered sexual abuse.

On January 31, 2014, Bishop David Zubik addressed a letter to parishioners at St.

Pamphilus that explained that allegations had been made against McMahon. The contact
information for the abuse hotline was provided in the event that a parishioner was harmed by
McMahon.
On February 5, 2014, a 64 -year-old male contacted the Diocese to advise that he became
aware of the fact that a letter was read and distributed at St. Pamphilus concerning McMahon.
He reported that when he was approximately 12 to 13 years of age, he would wrestle with
McMahon. He recalled that McMahon would have an erect penis and would attempt to put it in
his "behind." At first, the wrestling seemed innocent; however, once he realized that McMahon
had an erect penis near his "back side," he got out of the rectory and never came back.

On February 17, 2014, the male met with Rita Flaherty, Bishop Waltersheid and Father
Eckman The male recounted two incidents of abuse. During the first incident, while he was
wrestling with McMahon, his hand slightly passed over McMahon' s penis. He did not know if
McMahon did this on purpose, or if it was an accident. During the second incident, McMahon
placed him on his lap. McMahon had an erection at the time. According to a confidential
memorandum in the file documenting this meeting, the male was very tearful at times while
telling his story. At the conclusion of the meeting, Diocesan officials offered counseling to him.
They further advised that his allegations had been forwarded to the Allegheny County District
Attorney's Office and the Provincial for the Franciscan community.

The Diocese ultimately provided up to 90 counseling sessions for the male over a three
year period
No information could be located within the files as to whether if/when McMahon was
confronted with any/all of the allegations.

707

 Reverend John H. McMahon
Biographical Information
YEAR OF BIRTH:
YEAR OF DEATH:
ORDINATION:

1914
1993

June 16, 1940

Employment/Assignment History
12/05/1940-1/14/1942
1/15/1942-6/17/1953
1/15/1942-6/17/1953
6/18/1953-6/12/1957
6/13/1957-2/19/1958
2/20/1958-1/19/1960
1/20/1960-6/07/1960
6/08/1960-6/14/1970
6/15/1970-6/30/1984
6/30/1984

Parochial Vicar, Holy Family, Latrobe, PA
Parochial Vicar, St. Mary Mercy, Pittsburgh, PA
CCD Assistant, St. Mary Mercy, Pittsburgh, PA
Parochial Vicar, St. John the Baptist, Pittsburgh, PA
Parochial Vicar, St. Sylvester, Brentwood, PA
Parochial Vicar, St. Peter, Pittsburgh, PA
Parochial Vicar, St. Catherine, Pittsburgh, PA
Pastor, North American Martyr, Monroeville, PA
Pastor, Resurrection, Pittsburgh, PA
Retired

Summary
On June 7, 2004, the Diocese of Pittsburgh received a telephone call from a therapist
who was counseling an adult female patient. The call was to inquire about the process for
bringing a sexual abuse allegation to the attention of the Diocese.

Seven days later, a meeting took place between the therapist, the adult female and Rita
Flaherty, Father James Young and Father John Rushofsky. The female explained that between
1969 and 1976, she was molested by Father John H. McMahon and
while
she was a student at Resurrection. She advised that her recollection of the events was not
completely clear but she estimated that it occurred when she was seven to 15 years of age. She
stated that the molestation took place on the second floor of the rectory where the two priests
maintained private residences. Some of the abuse occurred during school hours, while other
abuse took place during the summer She stated that she could recall being with McMahon
when he was naked. McMahon encouraged her to touch him in inappropriate areas of his body.
On other occasions, other children were present and McMahon encouraged them to touch each
other.
The female stated that she recalled seeing pictures of naked boys and girls scattered on
McMahon' s desk.
The female reported that the abuse by McMahon and
progressed over time from
touching and fondling to sexual intercourse. She disclosed that on one particular occasion, she

708

REDACTED -- ONGOING APPELLATE
LITIGATION

 was in the school cloakroom with
He exposed his penis to her
inappropriately and ejaculated on her underwear.

He then touched her

At the conclusion of the meeting, Diocesan officials stated that they would investigate
the allegations and address them with
Officials advised that should
deny the
allegations, a Diocesan Review Board would make a ruling on
suitability in the ministry.
.

709

REDACTED -- ONGOING APPELLATE
LITIGATION

 Brother Frank Meder
Biographical Information
YEAR OF BIRTH:
YEAR OF DEATH:
ORDINATION:

Unknown
1976

N/A

Employment/Assignment History
Unavailable
Marianist Community

Summary
On August 1, 2011, Bishop Zubik received a letter from an adult female who reported
that Brother Frank Meder inappropriately touched her in the late 1950's when she was
approximately eight or nine years of age. She stated that Meder would invite the Troy Hill
neighborhood children into the North Catholic High School to give them leftovers from the
cafeteria such as drinks or candy. She stated that she followed Meder into his office and sat on
his lap. He then fondled her. She stated that this abuse occurred to many children who visited
the school.

On April 6, 2014, an adult male contacted the Diocese of Pittsburgh to report that he also
had been abused by Meder when he was approximately 10 or 11 years of age (1953 or 1954).
He stated that Meder invited the Troy Hill neighborhood children into North Catholic High
Shool to see his stamp collection on Saturdays. Meder then took each child into his office
located behind the kitchen and molested them. He reported that this occurred for at least two
years. He also reported abuse by Brother Hildebrand.
On May 5, 2014, another adult male reported inappropriate sexual contact by Meder that
occurred between 1955 and 1957 at North Catholic High School, when he was approximately
eight to 10 years of age. He came to know Meder because his mother worked at the school.
After his father died, Meder offered to cut his hair as well as his brother's hair for free in order
to help his mother save money. During these monthly haircuts (which always occurred on
Saturdays), Meder would rub the boys' thighs and smack their buttocks. Meder would then give
them a bag of chips and some pop. The male's brother was contacted and confirmed this
information.
On May 7, 2014 a third adult male contacted the Diocese to report inappropriate sexual
contact by Meder that occurred in the mid -1960's at North Catholic High School when he was
approximately nine to 10 years of age. He stated that he and other children from the Troy Hill
neighborhood encountered Meder in the summer Meder invited them into the school where he
took each child into his office, one at a time. He reported hat Meder gave them candy, but only
after he spanked them. This occurred on approximately six occasions.

710

 Summary
On May 8, 2014, a fourth adult male contacted the Diocese to report sexual abuse by
Meder in 1953 or 1954 when he was 10 or 11 years of age. He stated that, Meder invited the
children into North Catholic High School on Saturdays. He often gave the children pop and
candy. He would then line the children up, and have them take turns sitting on his lap in a rocking
chair in his office. The office was located behind the kitchen. He recalled that as a child, he
"always wondered what was in Brother Franks' pants." When he got older, he realized that
Brother Frank had an erection. He also provided information about abuse by Brother Keegan.

The Diocese offered counseling to the victims, but they declined. They were informed
that the incidents would be reported to the Allegheny County District Attorney's Office and to
the Provincial for the Marianist community.

711

 Biographical Information

 

 

REDACTED -- ONGOING APPELLATE LITIGATION
712

Summary
According to a
telephone call from

confidential memorandum,

received a

in the Archdiocese
, regarding an allegation of sexual abuse made aainst
Later that day, the Diocese contacted the male who

reported

713

REDACTED -- ONGOING APPELLATE
LITIGATION

 Reverend Arthur R. Merrell
Biographical Information
YEAR OF BIRTH:
YEAR OF DEATH:
ORDINATION:

Unknown
N/A
1970

Employment/Assignment History
Not specified
2/20/1998

Chaplain, Allegheny County Jail and Shuman
Juvenile Detention Center
Resigned

Summary
In September, 1997, the Diocese of Pittsburgh received a report that Father Arthur R.
Merrell had innapropriately touched a boy under the age of 15. Merrell admitted to the
inappropriate sexual act and withdrew from the priestly ministry in February, 1998. The
Diocese did not forward the information to the Allegheny County District Attorney's Office.

A handwritten note in the file dated February 2, 1998, detailed a sexual relationship that
Merrell had with "James," a mentally ill man "James" stated that he and Merrell masturbated
together and that Merrell stuck his finger up his [James'] rectum and they kissed on several
occasions. Merrell admitted to these acts.
In a confidential memorandum dated July, 2014, Rita Flaherty of the Diocese recounted
a meeting with Merrell wherein he minimized his inappropriate actions with minors and asked
the Diocese for money. The Diocese granted Merrell' s request for a "charitable gift of money"
in the sum of $5,000. In 2015, Merrell requested another sum of money from the Diocese.

714

 Summary
During the year 1990, the Diocese of Pittsburgh received a report from a 30 -year-old
male that he had engaged in sexual activity with
in the early 1980's
when he was 22 or 23 years of age.
acknowledged the sexual activity.
On December 23, 1993, a 28 -year-old male met with Father Guay, Father Zubik and Rita
Flaherty. He reported that he was sexually assaulted by
when he was 17 years of age.
He stated that shortly after his father's death, he went to see
at the rectory. During the
visit,
offered him a "joint" to smoke. He and
then started to drink alcoholic
beverages while smoking marijuana. The male reported that
I then grabbed his genital
area. Stunned by this incident, he left the rectory. He stated that he not have any contact with
again until 1986, when he was a junior in college. He described their relationship as
being one of a social nature with "sexual overtones." In 1988, after being away from the
Pittsburgh area, the male made contact with
On this occasion,
again grabbed for
his genital area. The male resisted and no conduct occurred.
.

Diocesan officials thereafter conducted an interview with
who denied having
made any attempt at sexual contact with the male when he was 17. He did acknowledge,
however, that he saw the male at his rectory socially when he was a young adult.
stated
that on those occasions, there was movement toward sexual activity but it never progressed very
far. Eventually,
felt that the male was just "toying with him" so the friendship ended.
The male was provided with therapy/counseling through the Diocese.

715

REDACTED -- ONGOING APPELLATE
LITIGATION

 Reverend Joseph Mueller
Biographical Information
YEAR OF BIRTH:
YEAR OF DEATH:
ORDINATION:

1936

2010
June 25, 1983

Employment/Assignment History
7/05/1983 - 7/14/1984
Parochial Vicar, St. Bernard, Mt. Lebanon, PA
7/15/1984 - 6/16/1986
Parochial Vicar, Holy Spirit, West Mifflin, PA
6/16/1986 - 1/22/1987
In Residence, Cardinal Wright Center
1/23/1987 - 2/1988
St. John's Hospital, Ministry
11/29/1988 - 2/24/2003
Administrative Leave
2/24/2003

Withdrew from Active Ministry

Summary
In April 1986, an allegation of sexual abuse against Father Joseph Mueller was made to
Father Wilt, Pastor at St. Bernard. A young man advised that when he was approximately 13 to
14 years of age, Mueller attempted to remove or pull down his shorts on several occasions. This
occurred when he stayed overnight with Mueller at the Holy Spirit rectory.
In December 1986, in a letter to the Diocese, St. Luke's stated that that they stood by
their recommendation that Mueller "not work with children or adolescents." As of November,
1988, Mueller's faculties were withdrawn.
In a confidential memorandum to Bishop Wuerl, it was suggested that Mueller was
In a November 1988 letter to Mueller, he was presented with three options: 1)
Enroll in an interim program at St. Luke's to assist with the vocational discernment process; 2)
Withdraw from active ministry; or 3) Petition the Holy See for a dispensation from the
4

obligations of priesthood.
In September 1987, the Diocese received a complaint about Mueller. Specifically, a
mother advised that Mueller paid "inappropriate attention" to her 16 -year-old son.

716

 Reverend Lawrence O'Connell
Biographical Information
YEAR OF BIRTH:
YEAR OF DEATH:
ORDINATION:

1906
1986

June 15, 1930

Employment/Assignment History
7/03/1930-7/21/1948
1/04/1940-7/23/1941
3/10/1946-3/27/1946
7/22/1948-10/16/1948
10/16/1948-6/25/1952
6/26/1952-6/28/1983
6/29/1983

Parochial Vicar, Annunciation, North Side, PA
Administrator, Annunciation, North Side, PA
Vicar ENC, Annunciations, North Side, PA
Vicar ENC PRO TEM, Master Dolorosa, Chicora, PA
Pastor, Master Dolorosa, Chicora, PA
Pastor, St. Gabriel, Whitehall, PA
Resigned

Summary
On January 7, 2004, an adult female alleged that Father Lawrence O'Connell sexually
abused her on numerous occasions when she was approximately 11 to 13 years of age. She
stated that she and a friend worked in the rectory at St. Gabriel on Mondays, counting the loose
change from the Sunday services. She stated that, inevitably, O'Connell would ask her to stay
behind and then invite her into his office where he would touch her inappropriately, french -kiss
her and have her perform oral sex on him. She reported that the abuse occurred once a week for
over a year. O'Connell told her; "You are special and this is our special time together." He also
told her not to tell anyone about their secret because otherwise it would not be special anymore.
Additionally, he told her he loved her.

The female further related that O'Connell took her and her friends out for lunch or to a
movie and bought gifts for them. She stated that she remembers the feeling of dread that she
had on Sunday nights knowing that she would be subjected to the sexual abuse the next day.
Although she told her parents about the abuse many years later, they did not pursue the subject.
The Allegheny County District Attorney's Office was notifed of the allegation.
On April 28, 2004, a local reporter for KDKA TV contacted Father Lengwin to advise
that she had heard there were sexual allegations against O'Connell. The reporter noted that she
and her family had been members of his parish and that she had attended school at St. Gabriel.
She then reported that she and three other girls worked at the rectory and that O'Connell would
occasionally call them into another room where he would kiss them; "place his tongue down
your throat, fondle you and make overtures." He also bought them gifts. The reporter noted
that although she had "no desire to make a case," it was something that she would never forget.

717

 Summary
In a memorandum to the file dated April 28, 2004, it was documented that the Diocese
of Pittsburgh contacted the reporter and invited her to talk about the allegation that she had made
involving O'Connell. The reporter responded that she did not feel that coming in to talk was
something that she would like to do. She stated that the reason she had called Lengwin was to
add credibility to the allegation that she had become aware of during her morning staff meeting
at KDKA. She stated that she was not currently interested in counseling and that she did not
want her allegation to go any further due to her public position. She then reiterated the nature
of the abuse that occurred in O'Connell' s office. She stated that when she told her mother
shortly after it occurred, her mother told her that she needed to focus more on her schoolwork
and that she really did not have time to work at the rectory anymore. The other girl quit aroud
the same time. The reporter noted that O'Connell would often buy gifts for the girls or take
them to dinner at the Lamont.

On April 29, 2004, the Pittsburgh Post -Gazette published an article reporting that a
lawsuit had been filed against the Diocese for ignoring and concealing the sexual abuse of six
people by priests dating back to 1954. The article stated:
The suit claims the church was negligent, acted in concert to conceal incidence
of sexual abuse, misrepresented the status of the various priests, violated the
statute by not publicly acknowledging incidents, did not care for and provide safe

environments for children, did not protect children against risks of abuse, did
not warn anyone of repeat offenders, and did not properly supervise the priests.

The article continuing, stating that "[t]he suit further claims church officials were incompetent
in allowing the abuse, that their negligence caused emotional distress, and that the plaintiffs
were harmed because of official inaction."
The article reported that O'Connell was named in the lawsuit by an adult female who
stated that when she was 12 years old, O'Connell had her perform sex acts with him. She
explained that the abuse started with kissing and fondling, while two other girls watched. It
ended three years later when O'Connell hired a new girl to work with him at St. Gabriel.
In a letter dated June 29, 2004, the Diocese provided the Allegheny County District
Attorney's Office with a list of the most recent allegations of abuse received. O'Connell's name
was on the list. It was noted that a female known as Jane Doe 1, who wished to remain
anonymous, was abused by O'Connell at St. Gabriel when she was between the ages of 12 and
15 years of age.

On July 1, 2004 the Pittsburgh Post -Gazette and the Pittsburgh Tribune -Review both
published articles reporting that six more lawsuits were filed against the Diocese. O'Connell
was named as one of the abusers. The article stated that two women reported that O'Connell
often fondled them as they arrived for class at St. Gabriel. They were seven and 14 years of age,
respectively, when this occurred. The lawsuit named the Diocese, Bishop Donald Wuerl and
Cardinal Anthony Bevilacqua as the defendants.

718

 Summary
In a September 30, 2004 article printed in the Pittsburgh Post -Gazette, it was reported
that eight more lawsuits were filed against the Diocese in connection with sexual abuse
allegations. O'Connell was once again named in the lawsuit. The plaintiffs asked the court to
hold church leaders, Wuerl and Bevilacqua responsible for allowing the alleged assaults to
occur.
In Diocesan memorandums from May 2008, it was noted that one of the victims was
seeking counseling through the church. There was also a payment agreement signed by the
victim along with a check issued to her by the Diocese for counseling.

719

 Reverend Thomas

M.

O'Donnell

Biographical Information
YEAR OF BIRTH:
YEAR OF DEATH:
ORDINATION:

1934

Unknown
May 21, 1960

Employment/Assignment History
6/1960-5/1964
5/1964-6/1966
6/1966-8/1971
9/1971-4/1975
5/1975-6/1983
6/1983-7/2000
7/2000-9/2001
9/2001-11/2005
11/2005-8/2006
8/2006-7/2014
7/2014-Present

Kieran, Lawrenceville, PA
John the Evangelist, Pittsburgh, PA
Norbert, Pittsburgh, PA
Clare, Clairton, PA
Annunciation, Pittsburgh, PA
St. Wendelin, Carrick, PA
St. Maximilian Kolbe, Homestead, PA
St. John Vianney, Pittsburgh, PA
St. Cyril of Alexandria, Pittsburgh, PA
St. Mary of Mercy, Pittsburgh, PA
Epiphany, Pittsburgh, PA
St.
St.
St.
St.

Summary
In 1988, parents complainied to administrators at St. Wendelin that Father Thomas M.
O'Donnell was requiring boys, who were around the age of 12 at the time, to shower after
basketball games. It was reported that O'Donnell was also making them get weighed while they
were naked. Many parents expressed displeasure that all of this was occurring while O'Donnell
was present in the locker room and shower areas. The parents also noted that some of the
children were embarrassed to get weighed while naked; however, they ultimately agreed to it at
the insistence of O'Donnell.
In early November 1988, Father Guay and Father Nowicki met with O'Donnell who
acknowledged that while these incidents did occur, it was an error in judgement. He further
stated that other coaches were present in the locker room at the time. O'Donnell was advised
that he was not to be in the locker room or shower areas moving forward.
In mid -November 1988, a group of 10 parents sent a letter requesting that O'Donnell
completely resign from the athletic programs due to his inappropriate behaviors in the locker
room. They noted that it had been confirmed with the Director of Diocesan Athletic Programs
that there was no requirement that the children be weighed or measured. The letter further stated
that O'Donnell had already defied a June, 1987 order given to him by Father Rutkowski to stay
out of the locker rooms.

720

 Summary
In mid -November, 1988, a letter was also sent to Rutkowski from a parent who
complained about the showering and nude weigh-in requirements. Then, another parent who
had previously sent in a complaint, wrote that she was removing her child from the athletic
program amid the inaction by the church to correct O'Donnell's behavior. On the same day,
Rutkowski also met with Father Nowicki, Father Guay and Father Steidle about the situation.
In early December, 1988, Rutkowski sent a letter to O'Donnell wherein he outlined the
complaints against him. He informed O'Donnell that he was to disassociate himself from the
supervision of the athletic programs. Rutkowski also required that O'Donnell inform his
coaching staff that showers and weigh -ins were not mandatory. On that same day, Rutkowski
sent out a memorandum to the group of parents who had written the November letter. He
advised that Diocesan officials met with O'Donnell on November 30, 1988 and that the matter
was now resolved. It should be noted that there was no documentation in the file that Diocesan
officials met O'Donnell on November 30, 1988.

From late December, 1988 through mid -March, 2002, parents continued to provide
reports to the Diocese that O'Donnell had engaged in inappropriate behavior with children. In
one instance, a parent disclosed that her son went on two trips with O'Donnell. During one of
those trips, one of the boys had to sleep with O'Donnell twice. Another parent recounted that
when her son and other players returned to St. Wendelin to shower after away games, it made
O'Donnell excited. Another set of parents revealed that their son had a sexual conversation with
O'Donnell and they requested that O'Donnell be removed from all children's programs. One
parent advised that before her son entered eighth grade, he went on a trip with O'Donnell and
other boys. When her son returned home, he was very upset and stated that he did not want to
go anywhere with O'Donnell again. He told her that O'Donnell permitted the boys to undress
in front of him, which made him [her son] uncomfortable. Next, a set of parents claimed that
after their son went to a local wave pool with O'Donnell, O'Donnell insisted that her son and
the other boys shower with him before getting into his car. Finally, a parent wrote a letter
wherein she expressed that she could have done more to protect her child and others from
O'Donnell. She stated that on one occasion, her son went to help O'Donnell with chores. When
O'Donnell asked her son to wash the dog, O'Donnell insisted that her son get completely naked.
Her son complied. The mother indicated that she approached O'Donnell about it, but no further
information was provided about this encounter.
In late January 1989, the results of a psychological evaluation indicated that O'Donnell
had no psychiatric issues. He was noted to be mentally fit to perform any duty.
In early June, 2000, Bishop Wuerl notified O'Donnell that he was being appointed full
time judge to the Diocesan Marriage Tribunal and was relieved of his pastoral duties at St.
Wendelin. On March 30, 2004, O'Donnell officially retired from the Diocese.
In November 2005, Wuerl assigned O'Donnell residency at St. Cyril to continue his role
as a part-time judge and to assist the current pastor. Shortly afterwards, the principal of the St.

Cyril grade school received two complaints concerning issues surrounding O'Donnell and his
interactions with young children in his previous assignments.
721

 Summary
In a memorandum dated December 1, 2005, the Diocese documented a second encounter
between one of the initial complainants and the principal. The complainant was a grandparent
of a few students at the school. He stated that he was one of 12 families who went to the Diocese
in 1981 to report O'Donnell's inappropriate behavior towards children on the different sporting
teams. This behavior included being present in the locker rooms and posting a bulletin that
required the young boys to shower after events. The complainant told the principal that he was
not inerested in bringing his allegations to the attention of the Diocese because the Diocese did
nothing when he previously brought O'Donnell's behavior to its attention.

There was no documentation in the file that allegations of misconduct were received by
the Diocese in 1981.

Shortly after the initial complaints regarding O'Donnell's residency at St. Cyril, Father
Young notified Wuerl of these complaints as well as O'Donnell's past inappropriate behavior
around children. Young noted that after reviewing O'Donnell's file and convening the Clergy
Task Force, there was unanimous concern about that information surfacing in the public. They
further indicated that a change of residency may be necessary to avoid a potential "
groundswell of gossip that might harm the reputation of one of our priests or possibly appear
to be negative in terms of the diocese dealing with a situation that occurred in the past."
.

.

.

In late November, 2005, Wuerl sent a memorandum to Young and Auxiliary Bishop
Bradley wherein he requested that O'Donnell' s file be reviewed again to ensure there was never
an allegation of abuse received by the Diocese.
In early January, 2006, Diocesan officials met with O'Donnell regarding the recent
complaints made to the principal of St. Cyril. O'Donnell stated that he never did anything to
harm a child. The Diocesan staff cautioned O'Donnell not to spend time at the school for any
reason moving forward.
In mid-March 2006, the Diocese contacted the principal at St. Cyril to ensure that there
were no further allegations brought to her attention. The principal responded that while there
were no new complaints, some of the children had remarked that O'Donnell was very nice to
them during the First Reconciliation ceremony. The next day, Diocesan officials held another
meeting with O'Donnell wherein he was questioned about, inter alia, why he was present during
the First Reconciliation ceremony when he was cautioned not to be anywhere near the school.
O'Donnell responded that he had been asked to help by Father Bruney. O'Donnell was
instructed again not to be around the school for any reason.
In late November, 2006, O'Donnell applied to an Apostleship of the Sea program which
required a letter from the Diocese that indicated that he was in good standing. Rushofsky, who
had been present for the meetings with O'Donnell about the complaints against him, provided
the letter.

722

 Summary
In late February, 2008, O'Donnell asked Bishop Zubik to provide another letter of good
standing to re -certify him for the Apostleship at Sea program. In a letter from Father Bonnar to
Zubik, the allegations made against O'Donnell were outlined. Bonnar advised that if Zubik
believed that O'Donnell should be recommended for the program, the signature should not come
from him. On the letter, Zubik initialed handwritten notations, which read in part that the matter
needed to be discussed by the Special Clergy Task Force before any decision was to be made.

O'Donnell was ultimately informed that he would not be recommended for the program.
In January 2014, O'Donnell requested permission to attend a memorial mass performed
by the United States Navy. The Navy required that a Diocesan representative provide a letter of
good standing in order for O'Donnell to attend. The Diocese not only provided a letter of good
standing, but also provided a form which indicated that all files and records maintained by the
church about O'Donnell had been reviewed and the Diocese could attest to the following
statements, inter alia: "No accusations of misconduct have ever been made against him, nor
has he ever been involved in any incident, to my knowledge, which has led to potential or public
scandal;" and "To the best of my knowledge, he has never engaged in sexual behavior
inconsistent with priestly celibacy, nor has he ever acted in an inappropriate manner with
minors." Father Mark Eckman initialed the statements and signed the form attesting that
O'Donnell was fully permitted to participate in the memorial event.

723

 Reverend William P. O'Malley, III
Biographical Information
YEAR OF BIRTH:
YEAR OF DEATH:
ORDINATION:

1944
2008
May 16, 1970

Employment/Assignment History
6/15/1970-5/23/1973
5/22/1973-9/14/1978
9/15/1978-3/28/1982
3/29/1982-11/15/1985
11/16/1985-8/24/1992
8/25/1992-8/10/1995
8/11/1995-6/29/1997
6/30/1997-12/14/1997
12/15/1997-11/15/1998
11/16/1998-5/18/2003
5/19/2003

Assistant, St. Jerome, Charleroi, PA
Assistant, St. Canice, Pittsburgh (Knoxville), PA
Assistant, St. Francis de Sales, McKees Rocks, PA
Assistant, St. Paul, Butler, PA
Pastor, St. Conrad, Meridian, PA
Auditor -Assessor Tribunal, Diocese of Pittsburgh
Pastor at Devine Mercy, Beaver Falls, PA
Pastor at St. Irenaeus, Oakmont, PA
Requested Leave of Absence for Personal Reasons
Canonical Consultant Tribunal, Diocese of Pittsburgh,
Withdrawn from active Priestly Ministry

Summary
On April 21, 1991, the Diocese of Pittsburgh received a complaint that Father William
P. O'Malley was having young people spend too much time at the St. Conrad rectory. No names
were provided. On this same date, two ministers advised Father Guay, Vicar for the Clergy, that
O'Malley had given at least one underage boy numerous gifts, including remote control cars,
electronic devices, use of O'Malley's credit card, and at least one trip to the Bahamas. On April
24, 1992, the father of this same boy (who was in tenth grade at the time) advised that he had
concerns about O'Malley and both of his sons. The father stated that his oldest son had keys to
the rectory and spent nights and weekends there with O'Malley. On May 1, 1992, Diocesan
officials questioned O'Malley about the complaint but he denied any wrongdoing.
On March 24, 1993, a financial audit was conducted at St. Conrad due to complaints of
financial mismanagement by O'Malley. Through the audit, it was discovered, inter alia, that
O'Malley had given money to a local 17 -year -old boy who stayed at the rectory and was the
primary user of new guest furniture that had been purchased by O'Malley. It was also
discovered that O'Malley and the teenager had a joint bank account together.
On December 23, 1993, an adult male contacted the Diocese to report that he was sexualy
assaulted by O'Malley when he was approximately 22 years of age. He explained that
O'Malley's residence had a pool table and hot tub and was always available as a "place for kids
to go." When questioned by Diocesan officials regarding the complaint, O'Malley admitted to
receiving a backrub from the male but advised that he did not recall if any sexual contact had

724

 Summary
occurred. O'Malley admitted that adolescents were still coming into the rectory to use the pool
tables and pinball machine. Father Guay cautioned O'Malley against this activity, "[e]specially
since [the complainant] made reference to this as an opportunity for O'Malley to have access
to other adolescents."
On December 12, 1997, Diocesan officials interviewed an adult male who advised that
he was sexually abused by O'Malley in 1978 when he was approximately 11 to 12 years of age.
He stated that O'Malley provided him with alcohol and then, after he went to bed, O'Malley got
into bed with him, removed his shorts, and fondled his genitals. On another occasion, O'Malley
showed him photographs of three other boys in their underwear. O'Malley then asked if he
could take similar photographs of him. The male futher advised that O'Malley kept a drawer
filled with large candy bars, that kids were around the rectory all the time, and that O'Malley
was still seen with groups of young boys.

When interviewed about the allegation made on December 12, 1997, O'Malley stated
that the incident "probably happened" and that "kids were around all the time." O'Malley went
on to state that he was "much more careful now not to touch kids," and that he recently had taken
a group of young boys to a festival held at St. John Vianney.
Bishop Wuerl granted O'Malley a leave of absence. O'Malley was then sent to St.
Francis Hospital and then to St. Luke Institute in Maryland for evaluation and treatment. He
was later sent to Southdown Institute for continued treatment.
On January 12, 1998, a confidential memorandum was sent to Wuerl advising that
O'Malley was given a diagnosis of "ephebophilia," based on his admitted sexual interest in
adolescents and that O'Malley was at a high risk for seeking emotional gratification with
adolescents. In spite of this diagnosis, only four days later, Wuerl sent a memorandum to the
file documenting his meeting with O'Malley on January 15, 1998. Wuerl stated that O'Malley
was "anxious to return to his priestly ministry." Wuerl continued, "I expressed to him our desire
to help him in whatever way we can do to all of the things that are necessary to present him for
priestly ministry."
On February 12, 1998, a letter was sent from a psychiatrist to Wuerl regarding O'Malley.
Th psychiatrist noted that O'Malley "describes no sexual interest or experiences with any
youngster who was not a teenager" and that "the incidents that occurred number 5 or less, were
never repeated with the same individual, and never included anything more than touching with
his hands." The doctor further stated that no sexual activity with minors had reoccurred since
1982 and that O'Malley should be allowed to return to his ministry.
On February 20, 1998, a confidential letter was sent from Southdown to Father Ruggiero,
advising that during treatment, O'Malley stated that he had a fantasy for "well built 16, 17 or 18
year olds," along with a continued over-involvement with youth, and an inappropriate
preoccupation with things that attract youth. From April 1998 through October 1998, O'Malley
remained in residential treatment at Southdown. While there, O'Malley received a letter from
the Diocese including a $1,000 payment to O'Malley for his car insurance.
725

 Summary
On November 9, 1998, Wuerl sent a letter to O'Malley appointing him as Canonical
Consultant in the Tribunal of the Diocese, with continued residence at St. John Vianney. Among
other things, Wuerl stated:

At the same time I welcome you back to priestly ministry following your leave of
absence for personal reasons. Your willingness to serve in this capacity and to
be of assistance . . . is a sign of your dedication and priestly zeal.

On December 12, 1998, a letter was sent to Wuerl from the same victim who had
disclosed being sexually assaulted by O'Malley a year earlier (as described above). The victim
stated that it had been one year since he originally made his complaint to the Diocese about his
abuse and his disclosure of three additional boys - - whom he stated he knew personally from
school - - whom O'Malley had photographed in their underwear. The victim further stated that
he believed the church was supporting O'Malley's behavior and cited as an example O'Malley's
new position in the Diocesan building and the publishing of his appointment.
On May 17, 1999, a letter was sent from Ruggiero to O'Malley stating, among other
things, that the Diocese had become aware that O'Malley had violated protocol by appearing in
clerical attire and celebrating mass in public ceremonies. Ruggiero advised that any future
violation(s) could affect O'Malley's position as Canonical Consultant.
On July 9, 1999, a recommendation was made by the Diocesan Clergy Task Force that
O'Malley be moved from St. John Vianney to St. Mary of Mercy to "cut down on some of his
appearances at parishes and events which have been problematic in the past." It was suggested
that O'Malley be placed back on administrative leave, but that he could "continue to do tribunal
work unofficially despite the fact that he no longer is assigned to the tribunal." This
memorandum was initialed at the bottom as being approved by the Bishop.

On August 16, 1999, a confidential memorandum was sent from Ruggiero to Wuerl
documenting the finalization of a loan made by the Diocese to O'Malley. The loan was in the
amount of $37,800 and was to assist O'Malley with his current debts. The loan was approved
by Wuerl. Weeks later, on September 24, 1999, another confidential memorandum was sent by
Ruggiero regarding O'Malley. The memorandum referenced earlier information that O'Malley
had been conducting research on child-care institutions located within the Diocese of Erie. As
stated in the memorandum, it was Ruggiero' s opinion that the Diocese should not allow
O'Malley's name to be associated with any publication that may receive public notice,
"especially in an area related to child care."

From April 5, 2002 to January 13, 2006, a total of six additional victims independently
came forward to report that they were sexually assaulted by O'Malley. Three of the victims
advised that they were sexually abused in the 1970's. At the time of their victimization, their
ages ranged from 8 to 14. The three remaining victims advised that they were sexually assaulted
in the mid -1990's and as recently as 1999. These three victims ranged in age from 11 to 17.
Many of the victims indicated that during the time period in question, O'Malley would provide
726

 Summary
them with gifts and trips. It should be noted that a portion of this period of sexual abuse, (from
the end of 1998 through 1999), occurred after Wuerl placed O'Malley back into ministry as
Canonical Consultant.
On May 19, 2003, a letter was sent to O'Malley from Wuerl wherein Wuerl advised that
he accepted O'Malley's resignation from active ministry. However, Wuerl also advised
O'Malley that his "sustenance needs and benefits would continue according to the norms of
law."
On January 13, 2006, a memorandum was sent from Father Young to Wuerl advising
that another victim had disclosed that he was "sexually molested by Father William O'Malley
from 1996 when he was 14 years old until 1999, when he was 17 years old." The victim stated
that the abuse occurred in three different counties. In January, 2006, the Diocese reported this
complaint to the Allegheny County District Attorney's Office. Diocesan records revealed that
the District Attorney's Office subsequently advised that the victim did not wish to pursue the
investigation.

727

 Reverend George Parme
Biographical Information
YEAR OF BIRTH:
YEAR OF DEATH:
ORDINATION:

1923

2002
June 13, 1948

Employment/Assignment History
7/22/1948 - 2/6/1952
St. Peter, Butler, PA
2/7/1952 - 1/30/1957
St. Aloysius, Wilmerding, PA
1/31/1957 - 8/11/1958
Presentation BVM, Midland, PA
8/12/1958 - 10/15/1958
No Assignment
10/16/1958 - 1/19/1960
Most Holy Name, Troy Hill
1/20/1960 - 6/7/1960
No Assignment, in residence at St. Patrick, Strip District
6/8/1960 - 10/13/1963
St. Catherine, Beechview, PA
10/14/1963 - 12/13/1963
St. Agnes, Oakland, PA
12/14/1963 - 5/26/1964
St. Joseph, North Side, PA
5/27/1964 - 1/30/1968
Mt. Nazareth Academy, Bellevue, PA
1/31/1968 - 11/17/1969
Mother of Good Council, Brushton, PA
11/18/1969 - 11/14/1974
St. Louis and St. Pascal, Argentine
11/15/1974 - 6/19/1989
St. Cecilia, Glassport, PA
Summary
The only information regarding an allegation against Father George Parme was found
with documents detailing a civil lawsuit against the Diocese of Pittsburgh, Bishop Donald Wuerl
and Cardinal Bevilacqua. According to the lawsuit, the victim served as an altar boy at St.
Aloysius. In 1954, when the victm was approximately 13 years old, Parme fondled his genitals
while he was getting dressed before mass in the sacristy. It was also alleged that abuse occurred
in Parme' s car. The abuse continued for one year.
The lawsuit contended,

[0]n information and belief, Diocesan Defendants knew and/or had constructive
knowledge of the sexual abuse of minors by a number of Diocesan priests,
including Father Panne, and that such abusive behavior was a longstanding
problem within the Diocese, having received actual notice of such abuse.
On October 1, 2007, the victim signed a document releasing the Diocese, Wuerl,
Bevilacqua, Bishop Paul Bradley and Bishop Zubik of all responsibility regarding the abuse.
The Diocese agreed to pay a total amount of $1.25 Million to 31 plaintiffs in the lawsuit.

728

 Reverend Paul E. Pindel
Biographical Information
YEAR OF BIRTH:
YEAR OF DEATH:
ORDINATION:

1924
1991

May 19, 1951

Employment/Assignment History
6/21/1951-12/03/1952
12/04/1952-12/16/1953
12/17/1953-6/12/1957
6/13/1957-6/09/1959
6/10/1059-12/07/1960
12/08/1960-6/06/1966
6/07/1966-3/27/1969
3/28/1969-11/01/1971
11/02/1971-10/13/1973
10/14/1973-12/09/1985
12/10/1985-7/06/1989
7/06/1989-2/26/1991

St. Stanislaus, Ambridge, PA
St. John Cantius, Sharpsburg, PA
St. Robert Bellarmine, E. McKeesport, PA

Holy Family, Pittsburgh, PA
Holy Angels, Hays, PA
St. William, E. Pittsburgh, PA
St. Martin, Pittsburgh, PA
St. Rose of Lima, Darlington
St. Ann, New Galilee
Chaplain, Gilmary School, Coraopolis, PA
St. Genevieve, Canonsburg, PA
St. Hyacinth, Pittsburgh, PA
Leave of Absence (Brain Tumor)

Summary
In April 2012, the Diocese of Pittsburgh received an allegation from an adult male that
Father Paul E. Pindel inappropriately touched him when he was between 13 and 15 years of age.
This occurred from 1957 through 1960 in Allegheny County and Butler County.

The male reported that he and other boys would frequently go places with Pindel. On
one occasion, Pindel took him and his brother to the farm where Pindel' s sister lived. They spent
the night there. Pindel slept between him and his brother on a mattress on the floor and
inappropriately touched him during the night.
The victim also stated that when Pindel would take him and other boys swimming in
Slippery Rock, Pindel would pull their trunks down while in the water and then laugh as if was
a funny prank.

The victim also recalled going to a drive-in with Pindel at which time Pindel performed
oral sex on him. Even after Pindel was transferred, he would continue to go to the victim's
house, take the victim places and often give the victim money.
The victim recalled that after Pindel was transferred, he was taken to the new rectory.
He was then taken to Pindel's bedroom where he became naked. The victim stated that this was
729

 Summary
the first time that Pindel placed the victim's hand on his penis and it was the first time that Pindel
attempted to have the victim touch him in a sexual way. That was the last time that he ever went
back to the rectory or went anywhere else with Pindel.
The Diocese offered the victim assistance in finding counseling services.
In May, 2003, the Diocese received an allegation that Pindel engaged in inappropriate
sexual contact with a minor who was an eighth grade student at St. William around the year
1965. According to the victim, once he entered high school, Pindel had senior boys threaten
and beat him up so that he would not disclose the prior sexual contact. According to the victim,
he attempted several times to discuss what happened to him but was told it would never go
anywhere because they would believe a priest over a boy. Later in life, the victim attempted to
talk to another priest and was told that he should be ashamed of himself.

The Diocese received an allegation in February, 2002 regarding Pindel. It was alleged
that Pindel engaged in inappropriate sexual contact with a minor who was a student in eighth or
ninth grade at St. William. This occurred in the 1960's. The victim advised that Pindel would
often take boys to a farm that he owned. During a visit to the farm, the victim was given wine.
Pindel then performed oral sex on him and "simulated anal intercourse."

According to the victim, Pindel would also enter the locker room after a game while the
boys were changing cloths.
The Diocese received an allegation in August, 2011 regarding Pindel. Specifically, it was
reported that Pindel engaged in inappropriate sexual contact with a minor between the ages of
six and nine that occurred between 1980 and 1984 in Washington County. The victim stated that
the abuse began when he was six years old and attending CCD classes. He related that he would
be pulled out of class by Pindel and taken to the rectory where he would be sexual assaulted.
The victim was instructed by Pindel to put on a red robe and lay across the desk. Pindel then
inserted his fingers into the victim's anus. It was very painful. The victim reported that
eventually Pindel started using a number two pencil. This went on for three years. The victim
advised that there was an usher who would watch the door so that no one would enter. The usher
would also touch the victim inappropriately on occasion. The Diocese offered the victim
assistance in finding counseling services and provided reimbursement for treatment.

730

 Pittsburgh Priest #1
Biographical Information
Omittted

Employment/Assignment History
Omitted

Summary
In a "Memo to File" dated April 21, 2004, Father Ronald P. Lengwin documented a
discussion that he had with a KDKA TV reporter. The reporter had advised Lengwin that they
were preparing to do a story about allegations being made by an 85 -year -old World War II
veteran that he was sexually abused by a priest 70 years earlier. While Lengwin never
mentioned the priest's name in the memorandum, he did state that the priest in question died in
1958. The memorandum further stated that the victim spoke with Diocesan officials who offered
him counseling services for assistance in dealing with this abuse. It also noted that the victim
was comforted by the fact that the Diocese found his allegations to be credible.

The documents received via subpoena contained invoices and checks made payable to a
psychologist who treated the victim. It appeared that the Diocese paid for those treatments and
created a treatment plan for his recovery.

731

 Reverend Francis Pucci
Biographical Information
YEAR OF BIRTH:
YEAR OF DEATH:
ORDINATION:

1931

2002
May 25, 1957

Employment/Assignment History
6/13/1957 - 11/28/1961
Parochial Vicar, St. Vitus, New Castle, PA
11/29/1961 - 6/16/1962
Parochial Vicar, Our Lady of Mount Carmel, Braddock, PA
6/17/1962 - 5/12/1965
Parochial Vicar, St. Vitus, New Castle, PA
5/13/1965 - 6/06/1966
Parochial Vicar, St. Mary, McKeesport, PA
6/07/1966 - 6/09/1968
Parochial Vicar, Epiphany, Uptown, PA
6/10/1968 - 3/27/1969
Headmaster, Lawrenceville Catholic
3/28/1969 - 6/14/1970
South Side Catholic, Consolidation
6/15/1970 - 5/21/1972
Administration, St. Januarius, Renton, PA
5/22/1972 - 7/01/1973
Pastor, St. Eugene, Liberty Boro, PA
7/02/1973 - 10/05/1980
Pastor, Purification, Ellwood City, PA
10/06/1980 - 9/29/1981
Pastor, St. Joseph, Coraopolis, PA
9/30/1981 - 6/30/1984
Pastor, St. Alphonsus, McDonald, PA
7/01/1984 - 2/14/1987
Pastor, Our Lady of Lourdes, Burgettstown, PA
2/15/1987 - 10/29/1987
Pastor, Immaculate Conception, Washington, PA
10/29/1987 - 2/10/1992
Leave of Absence, Health reasons
2/10/1992

Retired

Summary
In April 2002 an allegation of sexual abuse was made to the Diocese of Pittsburgh. An
adult male revealed that Father Francis Pucci fondled him to the point of ejaculation in 1962
when he was a minor at St. Vitus school.
In February 2004, a sexual abuse allegation was made to the Washington County District
Attorney's Office. An adult male advised that Pucci engaged in inappropriate sexual touching
with him in 1988 at a chuch. This occurred when he was a minor.

The Diocese received another allegation of sexual abuse in September 2007. An adult
male reported that Pucci engaged in inappropriate sexual touching with him when he was a
minor. This conduct occurred at a church in Coraopolis. In information contained in the file
suugested that the male never moved forward with the complaint after the initial allegation was
made.
In November 2014, the Diocese received a report from an adult male that Pucci engaged
in inappropriate sexual touching with him in 1981 to 1982 at a church in Corapolis. He stated

732

 Summary
that he was an altar server during that time period and Pucci would instruct him to wear either
nothing or jock straps underneath his cassocks. Pucci would also pat his buttocks along with
the buttocks of other altar servers. The male also reported this information to the Allegheny
County District Attorney's Office.
In December, 2014, an adult male reported to the Allegheny County District Attorney's
Office that Pucci engaged in inappropriate sexual touching with him when he was a minor. He
stated that the abuse occurred in 1981-1982 at a church in Allegheny County.
In May, 2016, the Washington County District Attorney's Office received a report from
a male who wished to remain anonymous. The male alleged that Pucci had engaged in
inappropriate sexual touching with him in 1983 at a church in McDonald.

Several months later, in October, 2016, an adult male reported to the Diocese that Pucci
engaged in inappropriate sexual touching with him in 1980 at a church in Coraopolis.
Information pertaining to allegations of sexual abuse involving Pucci were also contained
within the file of Father Robert Wolk. Wolk was apparently a friend of Pucci' s in the Diocese.
Wolk' s file contained the following information:
In August 1988, two victims filed a lawsuit against the Pittsburgh Diocese. The
two victims name Father Robert Wolk as a defendant in the sexual assaults, along
with Father Francis Pucci and Father Richard Zula, all of the Pittsburgh
Diocese. [Victim 1] alleges Pucci sexually assaulted him. On or about
September of 1988, the victims report the assaults to law enforcement. In
November 1988, Pucci was charged with sexually abusing [Victim 1]. More
specific, in the summer of 1986, at the Marianna Parish House, where Zula
resided at the time, Pucci touched and fondled [Victim l's] genitals.

Acording to articles from the Associated Press and Pittsburgh Post -Gazette:
Washington County District Attorney John Pettit, filed the sexual abuse charges
against three Roman Catholic priests for allegedly molesting two brothers who
were altar boys, and accused the church of foot -dragging during the
investigation. 'It was not the spirit of cooperation we would like to see,' Pettit
said, calling it 'minimal at best.'

Pittsburgh Bishop Donald W. Wuerl denied the allegation, saying, 'I think the
diocese has made every effort to be cooperative.'
Pettit charged the Rev. Richard F. Zula, 47, former pastor at Sts. Mary and Ann
Church in Marianna; the Rev. Robert Wolk, a former paster and diocesan
assistant chancellor of St. Thomas More Church in the Pittsburgh suburb of
Bethel Park; and the Rev. Francis Pucci, former pastor of Immaculate

733

 Summary
Conception Church in Washington. All three men have been relieved of their

pastoral duties.
In more than 150 counts, Pettit alleged that the priests sexually abused the two
boys from 1981 to 1987. The homosexual acts allegedly took place in a barn, a
church basement, a parked car and at a mountain resort.

Pettit said investigators do not believe the three priests acted in concert, although
Zula and Pucci were charged with one count each of conspiracy because Pucci
allegedly knew of Zula's intentions when he let Zula use his bedroom at a parish
home to have sex with one of the youths.
Some of the incidents involved whips, chains, drugs and alcohol, Pettit said.

Pucci also was charged with conspiracy for allowing the Rev. Richard Zula to
have sexual activity with one of the boys at the Our Lady of Lourdes parish house
in Burgettstown, Washington County, in 1986. At the time, Father Pucci was

pastor there.
The charges against Father Pucci were dropped after officials determined the statute of
limitations had expired.

734

 Reverend John W. Rebel
Biographical Information
YEAR OF BIRTH:
YEAR OF DEATH:
ORDINATION:

1937
2013
May

1,

1965

Employment/Assignment History
5/13/1965 - 6/6/1967
St. Bernard, Mt. Lebanon, PA
6/7/1967 - 8/27/1967
St. Veronica, Ambridge, PA
8/28/1967 - 9/19/1968
St. Joseph, Verona, PA
9/20/1968 - 5/22/1973
St. Michael, Elizabeth, PA
5/23/1973 - 8/15/1974
Leave of Absence
6/8/1973 - 8/15/1974
St. Kieran, Lawrenceville, PA
8/16/1974 - 11/4/1976
Assumption, Bellevue, PA
11/5/1976 - 6/29/1981
St. Margaret Mary, Moon Township, PA
6/30/1981 - 7/7/1982
St. Anselm, Swissvale, PA
7/8/1982 - 7/2/2001
St. Killian, Mars, PA
7/2/2001 - 6/15/2002
St. Bartholomew, Penn Hills, PA
1/15/2002 - 7/3/2002
7/3/2002 - 9/1/2010

Sabbatical Second Semester of 2001-2002
Sabbatical at North American College in Rome
St. James the Apostle, Bedford, PA

Summary
The Diocese of Pittsburgh received a report that Father John W. Rebel molested a boy in
the 1970's. The abuse occurred in the boy's bedroom when he was 10 to 12 years of age. It
happened after a "home mass." The file contained a memorandum dated March 18, 2009, that
revealed that Diocesan officials met with the parents of the victim who advised that their son
(now deceased) told them of the abuse years after it happened. They stated that Rebel would
often drive their son home after CCD. The memorandum stated that while his parents did not
know for certain what occurred during those rides, it became clear from their son's level of
emotion and sobbing, that sexual abuse may have occurred. Their son begged them to not make
him go to CCD classes. The partents reported that after the abuse, their son became withdrawn
from his family and friends.
On March 27, 2009, Diocesan officials confronted Rebel with the allegations. Rebel
stated that while he remembered the victim's parents, he had no recollection of their children
nor having a "home mass" at their residence. He denied taking the victim for rides in his car
after CCD classes.
On May 28, 2009, the victim's parents met with Bishop Zubik and recounted their son's
abuse. Zubik advised that he had spoken to Rebel and that he had denied harming their son.
735

 Summary
Zubik also stated that he felt that Rebel was telling him the truth. In the end, while Zubik
believed what their son had alleged, he felt that perhaps the abuse was committed by another
priest. Zubik stated that after reviewing church records, it was in all likelihood that another
priest was the parish priest at the time when the abuse occurred. He advised the family that the
church would conduct more research.
Based on the files presented in response to the subpoena, it does not appear that any
further investigation was conducted.
In a letter dated August 13, 2009, counsel for the Diocese forwarded information to the
Allegheny County District Attorney's Office pertaining to allegations made against clergy
members. The allegation invoving Rebel was included.

736

 Reverend Raymond R. Rhoden
Biographical Information
YEAR OF BIRTH:
YEAR OF DEATH:
ORDINATION:

1950
2006
October 23, 1976

Employment/Assignment History
11/05/1976-7/07/1982
7/08/1982-6/21/1989
8/25/1988-6/21/1989
6/21/1989-10/05/1992
6/21/1989-10/05/1992
10/05/1992-10/26/1992
10/26/1992-6/30/1997
6/30/1997-5/17/2002
5/17/2002
7/05/2002

Parochial Vicar, Nativity of Our Lord, Pittsburgh, PA
Parochial Vicar, St. Francis of Assisi, Finleyville, PA
Chaplain, part-time, Monongahela Valley Catholic High School,
Monongahela, PA
Chaplain, part-time, Our Lady of Sacred Heart High School,
Coraopolis, PA
Parochial Vicar, St. Joseph, Coraopolis, PA
Administrator, St. Philip Neri, Donora, PA
Team Ministry -Moderator, Our Lady of the Valley,
Donora, PA
Pastor, St. James, Sewickley, PA
Administrative Leave
Withdrew from active priestly ministry; Retired

Summary
On April 29, 2002, the parents of an adult male met with officials from the Diocese of
Pittsburgh to report that their son was sexually abused by Father Raymond R. Rhoden between
1976 and 1977. The mother stated that they considered Rhoden a family friend and that he had
spent a lot of time at their home. Her son informed them that Rhoden fondled his genitals and
performed oral sex on him over a number of months when he was 16 and 17 years of age.

The parents stated that they had previously spoken to Bishop McDowell (date unknown)
about the sexual abuse and he told them that he would take care of the allegations. However,
they never heard from him again. The parents related that they prayed for a long time before
reporting the incident again.
A memorandum to the file dated April 30, 2002, indicates that Diocesan officials spoke
with the victim via telephone. The victim told them that Rhoden spent a lot of time in his family
home and that when he was 16 and 17 years of age, Rhoden performed oral sex on him. He
explained that Rhoden would come into his room after he went to bed and begin to massage his
back, fondle his genitals and eventually perform oral sex on him. He stated that this occurred
on multiple occasions. The victim was presently taken antidepressants.

737

 Summary
The victim explained that he came forward with this information because his parents told
him that Rhoden had recently come over to their home and spent some time alone with his
younger brother in his room. His younger brother advised that Rhoden did not touch him.
The victim was asked to write a statement about the abuse, and on May 20, 2002, the
allegations were brought to the attention of the Allegheny County District Attorney's Office.
A handwritten note on the bottom of the memorandum dated May 21, 2002, stated that
the Diocese met with Rhoden and he admitted to the sexual abuse. The note further stated that
the Diocese turned the matter over to civil authorities and that Rhoden was removed from his
assignment.
In a memorandum to the file dated May 17, 2002, it was noted that Rhoden agreed to go
to St. Luke Institute for a physiological evaluation. An evaluation was not included in the

materials provided.
The file contained a church document marked "confidential" and dated July, 2004. It
was addressed to Bishop Wuerl from Angelo Amato, Titular Archbishop of Sila. The document
stated that the Dicastery had examined the case and agreed with the decision to allow Rhoden
to remain in retirement. They stated that because the case involved "a single case of abuse" and
it "occurred over 25 years ago," penal procedures and penalties would not apply.
A document entitled "File Review for Compliance with the Charter for the Protection of
Children and Young People" noted that Rhoden moved to Sarasota, Florida. He received $750
per month for sustenance. In January 2003, Wuerl granted Rhoden an additional $400 per month
to assist with housing and food.

738

 Reverend Carl Roemele
Biographical Information
YEAR OF BIRTH:
YEAR OF DEATH:
ORDINATION:

1934

Unknown
May 6, 1963

Employment/Assignment History
5/1963-5/1964
5/1964-6/1966
6/1966-8/1967
8/1967-5/1972
5/1972-9/1975
9/1975-2/1976
9/1975-2/1976
9/1975-2/1976
2/1976-8/1976

Joseph, Mt. Oliver, PA
Alexis, Wexford, PA
William, Pittsburgh, PA
Joseph, Duquesne, PA
Agatha, Bridgeville, PA
Allegheny Community College, Pittsburgh, PA
Epiphany, Pittsburgh, PA
Allegheny County Jail, Pittsburgh, PA
Leave of absence; voluntary laicization
St.
St.
St.
St.
St.

Summary
In late June 1967, the Diocese of Pittsburgh received a letter from a mother regading
sexual abuse committed by Father Carl Roemele. The letter was addressed to "Your Excellency"
and revealed that Roemele engaged in sexual misconduct towards four different young boys
while he was a parochial vicar at St. William. She alleged that Roemele made sexual advances
towards her son (first victim), his friend, and then another boy in a separate incident, when he
took them to a cabin. Additionally, she alleged that on a fourth occasion while at the camp site
with a boy, Roemele told him to shower after swimming She stated that Roemele then entered
the shower with the boy and when Roemele dropped the soap, he tried to bite the boy while
bending to pick it up. The mother also expressed concern that Roemele gave the eighth graders
a talk about sex prior to leaving his assignment. In the file provided by the Diocese, there is no
documentation to indicate that any official action was taken towards Roemele.

In mid -August 2004, a letter was sent to Bishop Wuerl wherein an adult male alleged
that he was continually abused by Roemele when he was an altar boy at St. Joseph. He reported
that Roemele would grope and fondle him - - as well as two other altar servers - - before mass.
The male also reported that when he was in sixth grade, Roemele took him and other members
of a basketball team to a cabin at Aleo Lake. While there, he witnessed Roemele masturbating
a young boy in the middle of the night.
In September 2004, Diocesan officials met with the victim to discuss his recent complaint
to Wuerl. There, the victim further outlined his allegations and was offered counseling. He
declined. He was asked to pass along the information for clergy staff to the other victims. In

739

 Summary
late September, 2004, the Diocese sent a letter to the Allegheny District Attorney's Office,
advising of the allegation.

Contained within the file was a March, 2008 letter from a law firm. Included in the
correspondence was an undated letter from another victim of Roemele. The third victim alleged
that he was abused around the year 1968 when he seved as an altar boy at St. Joseph. He was
either 11 or 12 years of age. He stated the abuse started after Roemele convinced him to stay
with him after mass. There, he fondled his genitals over his clothes. This conduct escalated to
exposing the boy's genitals and Roemele exposing his own genitals to the boy. The victim
stated that Roemele would often fondle him with the goal of giving the boy an erection. Roemele
sometimes squeezed the boy's testicles to the point where he experienced pain, but Roemele
encouraged the boy to try to endure it. The victim estimated that the abuse occurred after every
mass for approximately one year, if not longer, and lasted 20 to 30 minutes each time. The
victim felt as though he had to appease Roemele while waiting for the abuse to stop.
The victim further outlined a particular instance when he went to the cabin with Roemele.
Although Roemele told him that he would be going to the camp with other boys, it turned out
that the victim was the only boy there. Upon arrival, Roemele instructed him to strip down to
his underwear and shoot baskets at a hoop outside. Later, while in the cabin, Roemele began to
fondle the victim, eventually removing the victim's clothes as well as his own. Roemele then
placed the victim's hand on his erection and began masturbating himself using the victim's hand.
Roemele asked him several times if he wanted to "taste it," but the victim declined. The victim
reported that when he would try to pull back his hand, Roemele would put it back on his penis.
The victim stated that despite him being visibly uncomfortable, the abuse by Roemele continued
on and off again for six hours before he was finally taken home.
In another letter from a law firm, the attorney inquired if a list of four victims would be
able to settle their cases with the Diocese. The second and third victims' names were included
on this list. It is unknown whether any settlement was reached. In late, August 2008, the Diocese
sent a letter to the Allegheny District Attorney's Office regarding their receipt of the allegations.
In late October 2010, the Diocese received a telephone call from a mother who reported
that Roemele had sexually abused her son when he was 10 years old. She alleged that her son
and others were molested by Roemele at St. Joseph. She stated that Roemele would have the
boys come in early for mass or devotions and then molest them. He also took them to a cabin
that she referred to as "Mo's cabin." She went on to explain that her son had passed away in
2003 from complications from his alcoholism, adding that he began drinking in 1969 when he
was just 10 years old.
In early November 2010, Diocesan officials met with the mother at her home. She stated
that she believed her son would still be alive if not for the abuse he suffered by Roemele leading
him to drink. The clergy staff offered to provide her with counseling services over the telephone
since she was not able to leave her house. In July, 2011, the Diocese sent a letter to the
Allegheny District Attorney's Office regarding their receipt of the victim's allegation. It was

740

 Summary
indicated that the reasons for the delay in the submittal was due to the fact that the Diocese was
unsure whether the allegation needed to be reported since the victim was deceased.
Roemele took a leave of absence from his assignment on February 2, 1976. He later
resigned from active ministry in early August, 1976 and was officially laicized on February 25,
1978.
In early February 2009, Diocesan officials met with Roemele and confronted him with
the allegations from the second and third victims. Roemele responded that he did not recall the
second victim by name but did recognize the third victim by name, along with two of the altar
boys identified by the second victim. Roemele ultimately denied all the allegations of sexual
abuse, stating that they likely misinterpreted his actions towards them as sexually abusive in
nature when they were not meant that way. The clergy staff informed Roemele that as part of a
new policy, his name and address would need to be provided to the District Attorney where he
lived (Butler County) advising that a priest with allegations of sexual abuse was residing in the
county. In the memorandum documenting the meeting, it was reported that Roemele seemed
calm and lacked curiosity about the allegations presented to him. He had no questions and did
not seem upset about the policy of providing his information to the Butler County District
Attorney's Office.

741

 Reverend Michael C. Romero
Biographical Information
YEAR OF BIRTH:
YEAR OF DEATH:
ORDINATION:

1937

2000
October

1,

1977

Employment/Assignment History
10/13/1977-2/23/1978
2/24/1978-7/07/1982
7/08/1982-6/02/1985
6/03/1985-3/15/1990
3/15/1990-6/17/2000

Parochial Vicar, North American Martyrs, Monroeville, PA
Parochial Vicar, Immaculate Conception, Washington, PA
Parochial Vicar, St. Veronica, Ambridge, PA
Parochial Vicar, St. Basil, Carrick, PA
Leave of Absence

Summary
The first allegation of sexual abuse against Father Michael C. Romero surfaced on June
14, 2013. A memorandum to the file indicated that on that date, the Diocese of Pittsburgh
received a telephone call from a woman named "Andrea." Andrea advised that her boyfriend
was sexually abused by Romero when Romero was assigned to Immaculate Conception.

Andrea advised that her boyfriend's mother had previously contacted the Diocese to
report the abuse and to obtain referral information to help her son. In the internal memorandum,
it was observed that notes from a June, 2012 telephone conversation with the mother were
located. According to the notes, the mother had provided some information about her son and
asked if the Diocese would be able to help him. It was represented that the Diocese provided
the mother with some referral information for the area in which her son lived. There was no
report about the allegation made at that time.
Andrea subsequently contacted her boyfriend's mother and asked her to re -contact the
Diocese. The mother called again and advised that her son was sexualy abused by a priest and
that she believed that the priest was Romero. She stated that the abuse occurred at Immaculate
Conception when her son was a student there. She stated that Romero bought her son all kinds
of gifts, including a ski jacket. On one occasion many years later, her son came home for a visit
and knocked a picture of himself off the wall and broke it. It was a picture of her son wearing
the ski jacket. She also reported that Romero once took her son on a trip to Cleveland and gave
him alcohol. Her son got so drunk that he could not remember anything afterward. She stated
that her son was now a heavy drinker and she believed that it stemmed back to the sexual abuse
and his early exposure to alcohol by the priest.
In a memorandum to the file dated October 2013, it was noted that the son contacted the
Diocese and advised that he wanted to report "questionable behavior" that occurred when he
was a child. He stated that he was an altar server at Immaculate Conception in grade school

742

 Summary
through freshman year of high school. He stated that Romero would encourage him to drink
wine after mass before he returned to class. He also recalled that, on occasion, Romero also
took him to the racetrack and bought him alcohol there. He recalled Romero buying him gifts,
specifically, a sweat suit that Romero asked him to change into. The male reported that other
"things" happened but that he was reluctant to talk about anything else. He stated that Father
John Bauer also provided him with alcohol and encouraged him to drink it. He stated that Bauer
would also engage him in "wrestling" matches. He recalled that Romero and Bauer would talk
about masturbation a lot in front of him and the other young boys. The male stated that he has
spent his life dealing with issues of alcohol abuse and addiction. He attributed it to his early
exposure to alcohol by Romero and Bauer.
The male advised that he was seeking assistance with counseling to deal with his
repressed issues of sexual abuse. The Diocese advised that its counterpart in Florida (where the
male now lived) would be contacted and that referral information would be provided to him. He
was asked to make a written statement and that this information would be shared with the
Washington County District Attorney's Office.
On October 17, 2013, the Diocese sent a follow up e-mail message to the victim
providing him with contact information for a local counselor. She also asked him to make a
written statement.
A letter in the file revealed that the Diocese forwarded the victim's information to the
Washington County District Attorney's office on August 5, 2014.

The file also contained a January 19, 2012 memorandum from Father Harry Bielewicz
that included information about a second allegation of abuse against Romero. The memorandum
documented that on January 19, 2012, Father George Moneck called to report that he had
received a telephone call from a male victim who alleged that he was sexually abused by Romero
while he was a parishioner at Immaculate Conception. The memorandum stated that Moneck
was advised by telephone and in a letter to have the victim call Rita Flaherty of the Diocese.

No other information about the victim was provided in the files obtained from the
Diocese.

743

 Reverend Oswald E. Romero
Biographical Information
YEAR OF BIRTH:
YEAR OF DEATH:
ORDINATION:

1919
1997

July 15, 1950

Employment/Assignment History
1955-1965
1961-1965
1961-1965
1966-1977
1977-1993
1993

1991-1997

St. Francis Borja HS, Quito, Ecuador
Jesuit College & University, Quito, Ecuador

Catholic University, Quito, Ecuador
University of Pittsburgh
Chaplin, St. Joseph House of Hospitality, Pittsburgh, PA
Retired
St. Mary of Mercy, (Confessor), Pittsburgh, PA

Summary
In April 2006, a 53 -year -old man came forward with allegations that Father Oswald E.
Romero had sexually abused him while he was between the ages of 13 and 14 (1966 or 1967).
This occurred when Romero was assisting at a parish in a suburb of Pittsburgh. The male
reported that this abuse has had a lasting impact on his life.

The victim was interviewed by Father James Young and Father John Rushofsky to
discuss the abuse. The victim was prompted to come forward after speaking with his priest.
The victim explained that he attended St. Regis in Oakland and was familiar with Romero. It
should be noted that church records indicate that while Romero was never assigned to St. Regis,
he would assist the parish at various times. As a young teenager, the victim thought Romero
was friendly and trusted him enough to enter his car while at a local park.
Romero asked the victim if he wanted a driving lesson. Eager to learn, the victim got
into the car. Romero instructed him to sit on his lap so it would be easier to use the stick shift
along with the gas and brake pedals. Nothing happened during this lesson and Romero drove
him home without incident. A few weeks later, Romero inquired if the victim wanted another
driving instruction in the same park. The victim accepted the offer. It was much later in the day
then the previous lesson when they arrived at the park. The victim stated that Romero soon
began to rub his leg and eventually his genitals. Romero then proceeded to perform oral sex on
him. It was only when Romero realized that he could not finish the sexual act that he stopped.
The victim stated he felt immobile during the abuse and the moment Romeo stopped, he jumped
out of the car and fled home.

During the interview, the victim noted that he suffered from severe depression and
prescription drugs as a result of trauma from abuse. He noted that he had sought psychological
744

 Summary
treatment in the past. Young and Rushofsky offered continued therapy; the victim was open to
the option. The allegations were brought to the attention of the Allegheny County District
Attorney's Office.
In May 2006, the victim called Flaherty and informed her that he was seeking outpatient
treatment at Mercy Hospital in Pittsburgh. He called her again in June of 2006 and claimed that
he was seeking additional outpatient treatments at Mercy Hospital. He asked for financial help
and was directed to contact a local charitable organization for further assistance with counseling
and financial support.

745

 Reverend David Scharf
Biographical Information
YEAR OF BIRTH:
YEAR OF DEATH:
ORDINATION:

1957

N/A
May 11, 1985

Employment/Assignment History
6/03/1985 - 6/14/1987
Parochial Vicar, St. Michael Archangel, Butler, PA
6/15/1987 - 2/10/1992
Parochial Vicar, Our Lady of Grace, Scott Township, PA
2/11/1992 - 1/27/1997
Parochial Vicar, Our Lady of Fatima, Hopewell Township, PA
1/27/1997 - 8/31/1998
Parochial Vicar, St. Robert Bellarmine, East McKeesport, PA
8/31/1998 - 1/20/1999
Sabbatical
1/20/1999 - 12/13/1999
Parochial Vicar, St. Hugh, Carmichaels, PA
12/13/1999 - 11/21/2003
Pastor, St. Philomena, Beaver Falls, PA
11/21/2003 - 8/17/2009
Leave of Absence
8/17/2009 - Undetermined Chaplain, Sisters of St. Joseph, Baden, PA
Summary
In December, 2002 a sexual allegation (foot fetish) complaint against Father David
Scharf was made to the Diocese of Pittsburgh. Several males (both adults and minors)
complained of Scharf massaging their feet.
In August 2003, Scharf requested a leave of absence to attend St. Luke Institute for
evaluation in order to "end accusations." The request was granted. In July, 2004 St. Luke's
staff wrote in Scharf's discharge from the residential treatment program the following: "Father
Scharf recognizes his practice offoot reflexology should be discontinued immediately."
In February 2005 St. Luke's staff noted Scharf's discharge from the halfway house that
Scharf did not successfully complete the program and was at a high risk for re -offending.
In October 2007, Scharf wrote a letter requesting re-entry into ministry. He stated that he
was at peace with himself and had taken responsibility for his past actions. He wrote another
letter requesting re-entry into ministry in June, 2008. Both requests were denied.

It should be noted during several St. Luke Institute Continuing Care Workshops from
2005 to 2010, Scharf admitted to massaging the feet of minors and later masturbating to the
image of the minors' feet.

746

 Reverend Richard Scherer
Biographical Information
YEAR OF BIRTH:
YEAR OF DEATH:
ORDINATION:

1924
2007
June 12, 1949

Employment/Assignment History
6/30/1949 - 6/09/1954
Assistant, St. Charles, Donora,
6/10/1954 - 3/03/1964
Assistant, St. Anne, Castle Shannon,
3/04/1964 - 2/02/1965
Assistant, St. Coleman, Turtle Creek,
2/03/1965 - 6/1965
Assistant, St. Patrick, Canonsburg, PA
6/1965 - 5/1968
Sick Leave
5/1968 - 1992
Chaplain, Holy Cross Hospital, Diocese of Miami, FL
1992

Retired

Summary
Records from the Diocese of Pittsburgh revealed that in August 1991, a woman reported
to the Diocese that she was sexually molested by Father Richard Scherer when she was a student
at St. Anne. The abuse occurred between 1957 and 1961 at the church.
Records further revealed that in a letter dated October 24, 1965, Scherer wrote of his
"revelation" of his nervous breakdown resulting from the "relationship" with the woman It
should be noted that no other documentation was supplied to the Grand Jury regarding a
description or exaplanation of the "relationship."
In a letter dated January 17, 1966, Scherer wrote about his continued improvement in
health, body, and mind and stated that the "severe feeling of guilt" had left him.
In a letter to the Diocese dated April 5, 1966, Father Tobin from Our Lady of the
Snow/Clergy House Retreat located in Minnesota wrote that he had been counseling Scherer for
three months; that Scherer was making progress in the tensions that plagued his priesthood; that
Scherer suffered a nervous breakdown; and, that involvement with the "young lady" was part of
his emotional escape.

747

 Monsignor Raymond T. Schultz
Biographical Information
YEAR OF BIRTH:
YEAR OF DEATH:
ORDINATION:

1922
1999

June 15, 1947

Employment/Assignment History
7/17/1947-1/19/1949
1/20/1949-6/28/1950
6/29/1950-6/15/1955
6/16/1955-6/12/1957
6/13/1957-4/20/1966
12/29/1964-4/20/1966
4/21/1966-1/22/1997
1/22/1997-10/15/1999

St. Mary, Kittaning, PA
St. Leonard, Monessen, PA

Holy Rosary, Homewood, PA
St. Margaret, Greentree, PA
Catholic Information Center, Diocese
St. Richard, Pittsburgh, PA
Pastor, SS Peter & Paul, Beaver, PA
ADM, SS Peter & Paul, Beaver, PA

Summary

In 2009, an adult male reported to the Diocese of Pittsburgh that he was sexually abused
by Monsignor Raymond T. Schultz around the year 1978 when he attended SS Peter and Paul
Catholic School in Beaver.

M.

Correspondence in the file from the male's mother and father indicated that they were not
aware of the sexual abuse until around the time when it was reported in 2009. The victim's
mother indicated that she recalled one incident when she was doing laundry and she discovered
that her son's underrwear was in the pocket of his pants. He told her that he had an accident.
She did not ask any further questions. But, she realized now that the underwear had a pinkish red stain.
In 2010, a psychologist reported that she had been seeing the victim since 2007 and that
he was being treated for symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder and panic relative to
reported sexual molestation by a priest during his elementary school years. The victim reported
during treatments that he had nocturnal memories of the sensation of breath on the back of his
neck from when Schultz was sexually assaulting him. He also recalled a particularly distressing
incident of anal penetration by Schultz that occurred on a rainy day when his clothes were wet.
He participated in 67 therapy sessions and required inpatient hospitalization. He also suffered
from substance abuse.

748

REDACTED -- ONGOING APPELLATE
LITIGATION

 An attorney representing the victim subsequently wrote a letter to the Diocese stating
that the victim did not wish to discuss or accept the offer for counseling and spiritual assistance.
The Diocese indicated that it was unable to confirm independently the allegation of sexual abuse.

The Diocese contacted some of the nuns and teachers that taught at SS Peter and Paul
during the years when the victim was a student. The responses to questions about confession
indicated that the children went to confession as a classroom group until eighth grade when three
to four students could go at a time. However, it was reported that no single child was sent to
confession alone. The nuns also stated that there were often secretaries and parents present at
the school and that students were not placed in a room alone. The nuns also stated that there
were only a few bus riders.

M.
M

A report of the allegation of sexual abuse by Schultz
Beaver County District Attorney's Office by the Diocese in 2010.

was reported to the

On April 11, 2017, the victim testifed before the Grand Jury. He explained that he made
a complaint to the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General on September 22, 2016 through the
child sexual abuse hotline that was opened after the investigation into the Diocese of Altoona John s town
.

Prior to testifying, the victim provided a document detailing his ordeal as a victim of
clergy abuse. This document was read to the Grand Jury. The document stated:

1

749

REDACTED -- ONGOING APPELLATE LITIGATION

 The abuse from Monsignor Schultz occurred when I first started to serve the
early mass. At first, he would tell me to turn around and not move. He would -then he would stand behind me and rub his private area on my behind as he
made some noises. I then noticed something on the floor, which I would later
realize was his (Schultz's) semen and that he had had an orgasm. After a few
times of doing this, he had me take down my pants and he stood behind me. Then
he rubbed his penis on my behind and put his penis into my rectum as I screamed
loudly in pain. After that, he covered my mouth and told me no one will ever
hear me scream again. I now know he had an orgasm, as I felt his semen on my
back. No one could hear me because I served the early masses alone. Usually,
the masses were served by two altar boys. As a child, I didn't realize that I was
the only one serving alone; but now I know why I was. This all started at the end
of my seventh grade year. After he told me no one would hear me scream again
and I won't be able to tell anyone, he never let me go back to class again.

One day, after an instance of abuse by Monsignor Schultz,

I thought I
had had an accident in my pants.

I didn't know then,
but the wetness I was feeling was the drainage of semen from my rectum.

I would always be last. When it was

When I would go to confession,
my time to go in, Monsignor Schultz told me

to sit down and

When everyone was gone, Monsignor Schultz would come into the confessional
with me. This happened about five times. He would get very angry with me
because he would take his penis out and make me kneel in front of him as he put
his penis towards my face. He got angry because I didn't know what he wanted
me to do. When I asked him, he started to hit me in the head and then he
masturbated. When he had an orgasm, some of the semen got on my face. He
took his white handkerchieffrom his pocket and told me to wipe my face. To this
day when I see a white handkerchief I go from sad to angry. When it rains, I just
try to make the best of that day.

As I look back on this now, I try to figure out when I could have asked someone
to help me. There was a time when, after I was abused by Monsignor Schultz

Then I had to put my pants back on without underwear because it was
almost timefor the buses to come take us home. I put my underwear in my pocket,

750

REDACTED -- ONGOING APPELLATE LITIGATION

 I can remember my mother asking me as she
underwear was in my pocket. I told her I put them

was doing laundry why my
there because I had tinkled a little in my pants. Really, they were in my pocket
because, if I would have taken the time to put them back on, I would have missed
my bus and would have had to have called for a ride home. That is the only time
that I can remember when I had a chance to get help.
When I look back now, it was made very clear to me that I was a, quote, bad boy,
unquote, and would be punished more if I ever told anyone what was happening.
Most of these abuses happened after my dad dropped me offfor early morning
masses. I try to see through a child's eyes; but as an adult, it is very difficult to
look back.

As another form of punishment, I would have to clean and organize the altar and
the altar boy's closet. I was also abused by Monsignor Schultz behind the altar
in the room where we got dressed as altar boys or in the confessional. I would
say Monsignor Schultz touched or raped me about 10 to 15 times.

The victim estimated that this abuse occurred "From around fourth grade to the end of
of seventh grade probably. Eleven, 12."

-- middle

The victim stated that the first time he came forward about this abuse was seven years
ago when he informed his wife. The next time he spoke of the abuse was when he was in
counseling. He said that approximately five years ago, he along with his mother and father, had
a meeting with Bishop Zubik. According to the victim, Zubik responded by saying "he was
sympathetic. He [Zubik] made it very clear that he believed in me. Asked me if -- started to offer
me certain things." Zubik offered, "College tuition for my children, little bit of money, and then
the last one was to pay for counseling."
The victim stated that he ultimately refused Zubik's offer because by taking the offer,
the Diocese told him that:
you are going to have to meet with our lawyer and this and sign these documents
that basically say you are done with -- you can't come after us. It is over. No
public. Your mouth is closed.

He said the greatest insult was that by taking the offer, he would not be allowed to talk about
the abuse and what he endured.
In addition to testimony, the victim provided a letter from a former classmate. Some of
the excerpts from the letter read to the Grand Jury stated:
My first memories of [the victim] were in the third grade. He was well liked
and popular with the students. He was funny. Once we got older, I remember
seeing [the victim] less and less in the classes. When we asked, there was

751

REDACTED -- ONGOING APPELLATE LITIGATION

 always a reason why he wasn't there. The reason I most remember is that it
was not our business. I remember seeing him sleeping in the room we called
the health room. It was on the right near the exit stairs. It was the room we
had physicals in when the doctor was there. It was also the room that we used
when we weren't feeling well. [The victim] was in there on more than one
occasion. I remember wondering why he was always lying down there. I
remember seeing him in there on a consistent basis. Another memory I have
of [the victim] is in what was the learning center on the first floor. We were in
a small tutoring group of some kind.

The victim recalled being offended on by Schultz first, with the sexual assaults
consisting of oral and anal sex and also Schultz ejaculating onto the victim's face. He testifed
that these assaults occurred in Schultz's residence, next to the school, and, in the church.

The victim testified:

It started with me having a tummy ache

.

.

.=

when I became an adult, I realized what that stuff was.

The "stuff' was Schultz's seminal fluid.

Approximately six years ago, the victim met with Beaver County investigators to
officially report the abuse.
He stated that the Beaver County District Attorney's Office
contacted him and advised that nothing could be pursued because of the statute of limitations.
The victim concluded his testimony by stating that this abuse has had a destructive
impact on his life "that consumes you." When asked how important it was for him to be able to
come into a grand jury after all of these years of wanting transparency, he responded, "This is
the most important thing besides my wife and children on this planet in this world. This is a
sign for hope."

752

REDACTED -- ONGOING APPELLATE
LITIGATION

  

 

 

REDACTED -- ONGOING APPELLATE LITIGATION

753

Reverend Francis Siler
Biographical Information
YEAR OF BIRTH:
YEAR OF DEATH:
ORDINATION:

1937
2015
May 4, 1963

Employment/Assignment History
5/20/1963 - 6/14/1970
Parochial Vicar, Nativity, Broughton, PA
6/15/1970 - 12/05/1972
Parochial Vicar St. Bernard, Mt Lebanon, PA
12/06/1972 - 8/07/1974
Parochial Vicar, St. Titus, Aliquippa, PA
8/08/1974 - 5/20/1975
Leave of Absence
5/21/1975 - 10/10/1976
Parochial Vicar, St. Catherine, Wildwood, PA
10/11/1976 - 2/07/1983
Pastor, St. Margaret, New Castle, PA
2/08/1983 - 5/02/1984
Pastor, St. Catherine, Wildwood, PA
5/12/1984 - 6/30/1985
Parochial Vicar, St. Agnes, West Mifflin, PA
7/01/1985 - 2/23/1986
Leave of Absence, Health Reasons
2/24/1986 - 9/27/1987
Chaplain, Allegheny Valley Hospital, PA
Parochial Vicar, St. Mary Mercy, Pittsburgh, PA
9/27/1987 - 2/25/2002
2/25/2002 - 7/05/2002
Leave of Absence
7/05/2002

Withdrew from Active Ministry

Summary
A review of the Diocesan records pertaining to Father Francis Siler revealed a reference
made in a St. Bernadine Clinic report that "sexual problems with adolescents" had occurred in
1972 which caused Bishop Leonard to change Siler's assignment. In 1974, Leonard wrote in a
letter to the House of Affirmation that "in the last three years the problem arose about which I
spoke to you in a phone conversation."
In a 1985 memorandum written to Bishop Bevilacqua, Father Campbell recounted that:
You may recall from our conversation that Frank [Siler] made a pass at a young
boy whose father is a policeman. The irate father was about to take the matter
to court. It was this that necessitated our quick removal of Father Siler from the

post.
In 1994, an adult male came to see Siler in order to confront him about molesting him
as a child. After being confronted by the man, Siler required hospitalization at St. Francis for
suicidal feelings. Thereafter, he was sent to St. Luke Institute Continuing Care Workshop.

During a workshop held in May, 1994, St. Luke's expressed concern that Siler was
engaging in parish ministry. The concern was that because he had a history of sexual behavior
754

 Summary
with minors, and since he had been experiencing relapse behavior around sexual issues, there
was some concern about the possibility of his behavior with minors recurring. It was suggested
that Siler avoid all contact and ministry with minors.
In 1995, an adult male reported to the Diocese of Pittsburgh that Siler fondled him on
several occasions when he was an altar boy at St. Catherine church and in the second or third
grade. Siler denied the allegations. Some of the dates provided by the male did not correspond
to Siler' s age or assignment at the time, however, Siler was placed in restricted ministry.
In December 2002, another allegation of sexual abuse was made against Siler. An adult
male reported that Siler had touched him inappropriately when he was a child. This occurred in
a church in Beaver County between 1972 and 1973. The male demanded answeres from the
Diocese as to what happened with Siler and why he was "protected."
In November 2011, the Diocese received a report of sexual abuse by Siler that occurred
between 1972 and 1974 at a Beaver County church. An adult male reported that Siler had groped
and fondled him through his clothes when he was just a child. He also reported that a Father
Hoehl tried to "make some moves on him" but he was bigger thatn Hoehl and was able to protect
himself.

755

 Reverend Rudolph

M.

Silvers

Biographical Information
YEAR OF BIRTH:
YEAR OF DEATH:
ORDINATION:

1949

N/A
May 3, 1975

Employment/Assignment History
5/21/1975-5/18/1980
5/19/1980-7/07/1982
7/08/1982-6/28/1983
6/06/1983-6/15/1986
6/16/1986-8/01/1986
8/02/1986-2/07/1994
2/07/1994-6/27/1994
6/27/1994-2/25/2002
2/25/2002-7/24/2002
7/24/2002

Parochial Vicar, St. Sylvester, Pittsburgh, PA
Parochial Vicar, St. Robert Bellarmine,
East McKeesport, PA
Parochial Vicar, St. Canice, Pittsburgh, PA
Assist. Dir. Vocation Office, Diocese of Pittsburgh
Pastoral Center
Parochial Vicar, St. Peter, Butler, PA
Pastor, St. Peter, Butler, PA
Replacement Ministry, St. Vincent de Paul,
New Castle, PA
Pastor, St. Ann, Bulger, PA
Leave of Absence
Withdrawn from service

Summary
The first allegation of sexual abuse involving Father Rudolph M. Silvers occurred on
November 14, 1988 when an 18 -year-old male reported that Silvers had sexually fondled him
when he was between the ages of 12 and 15. He further reported that Silvers pinned him down
and had "taken advantage of him." He stated that he felt overwhelmed and that people did not
believe him. The victim subsequently requested counseling but was informed by Father
Rutkowski that there were no funds available for counseling. Silvers denied the allegation.
On March 26, 2002, the victim met with Diocesan officials to provide details of his abuse
by Silvers. He explained that his relationship with Silvers began when he was 13- years -old in
1977. His family lived across the street from St. Sylvester and the victim was one of the kids
that hung around the rectory. He reported that it was not uncommon for Silvers to "rough house"
with the boys and sometimes he would "reach into the boys shorts and feel around." The victim
stated that eventually this behavior evolved into more one-on-one activity between Silvers and
him. He recalled that Silvers was a "significant presence" in his life and that Silvers would tease
him in front of the other boys about his sexual inexperience. This made the victim feel
inadequate compared with his peers. The victim reported that Silvers would rub his beard over
his chest and nibble and lick the victim's neck.

756

 Summary
On one particular occasion when the victim was 15, Silvers became more sexually
aggressive. He pinned the victim down by putting his arms behind him. Silvers then kneeled
over him and reached down and grabbed his genitals. After this sexual assault, the victim's life
spiraled out of control. He ran away from home several times but eventually graduated from
high school in December of 1981. He then began counseling.

After years of moving from place to place and receiving counseling from numerous
counselors, the victim decided to confront Silvers. In a letter to Bishop Wuerl, the victim
recounted that sometime in 1993, he drove to St. Anne's in Butler to confront Silvers "man to
man." When Silvers saw the victim, he 'froze and turned white." The victim told Silvers how
he screwed up his life because of what he had done to him and that his family knew and would
be watching him. Silvers had nothing to say in response.

During the March 26, 2002 meeting, the victim made three requests: 1) That Silvers not
be in ministry where he would have contact with children and harm someone else; 2) An
apology; and, (3) that he be compensated for the years of counseling expenses he had incurred.
On April 15, 2002, Silvers was confronted with the allegations. He denied any sexual
contact. When confronted with the fact that the victim had traveled to St. Anne's to confront
him, Silvers became vague and evasive, claiming that while he had some recollection of the
visit, he could not recall the content of the conversation.

Diocesan records contained several letters between the victim and the Diocese with
respect to the reimbursement of funds for years of counseling. Eventually, on April 6, 2002, the
Diocese forwarded a check to the victim in the amount of $96,750.00 for compensation for
counseling received from 1979 through the present. There was also a promise of future
counseling, if needed.
A letter from the Diocese of Pittsburgh to the Allegheny County District Attorney's
Office dated April 29, 2002 provided the name of the victim and a description of the allegations

against Silvers.
The records provided by the Diocese contained a document entitled, "Chronology of
Reverend Rudolph Silvers." In the chronology, there was an entry dated July 9, 1990 wherein
a mother met with Father Gloninger in Butler to express her concerns with Silver's inappropriate
and unnatural attachment to her 13 -year-old son. There were several handwritten letters from
her in the file about this subject. The mother asserted that her complaints about Silvers and his
inappropriate interest in young boys was not being taken seriously. She reported that when her
son was 14 years of age, Silvers called him at least three times per week and offered him various
gifts. He also stayed overnight at the rectory without parental permission and no one was there
except Silvers. She stated that Silvers was now showing inappropriate interest in another young
boy, just like he did with her son, but the boy's family did not want to get involved. Her son
also wrote a letter wherein he stated:

757

 Summary
I am deeply disturbed about the issue with Father Silvers. I feel that this issue
has been overlooked and needs much more attention . . . But I do know one thing
and that is what Father Silvers is doing is wrong and should be stopped
immediately before someone gets seriously hurt . . . This has been going on for a
year and a half now and I have seen no progress. I find it hard to believe that a
man can go on for so long and get away with it. Especially when he know what
he is doing is wrong.
He ended the letter by writing, "I feel that this matter better be looked into a lot more closely
for Father Silvers'sake and some other helpless kid."
In a file notation dated July 18, 1991, Gloninger wrote that he had reviewed the concerns
of the mother about Silver's association with young boys but that there were never any
accusations of sexual misbehavior on the part of Silvers. However, a notation dated February
2002, revealed that Silvers was placed on administrative leave after a review of his confidential
files. Silvers resigned.

A document dated October 20, 2004 and entitled "Confidential File Summary" was
found in Silvers' file. It stated:

Issue with [mother] and her complaint -file not clear. [Mother] was told that the
matter was to be addressed on a "local level"-i.e. with Father Gloninger-7-2790. Not clear if [mother's] situation is ever properly addressed.
In a "Confidential Memorandum" to the file written by Rita Flaherty on January 20,
2012, she noted that she received a call on the 1-800 number from a male who reported that he
was sexually abused by Silvers in the mid -late 1970's at St. Sylvester when he was
approximately 10 to 11 years of age. This victim stated that he was receiving individual
counseling from a therapist at Catholic Family Services and would like assistance with the cost
for counseling. The memorandum recounted that Flaherty advised the victim that the Diocese
could assist him and ask for the contact information for his therapist. She also asked the victim
to provide the details of abuse in writing for their records.

On January 31, 2012, the victim sent a letter pursuant to Flaherty' s request. He stated
that Silvers would invite several boys to the rectory on Friday and Saturday evenings and that
they would go down to the recreation area in the basement to play games. During these visits,
Silvers grabbed at the boys' buttocks and genitals. He would also grab them and pinch their
chests. The victim reported that Silvers would get very excited during this "horse play" and that
eventually he would take one of the boys up to his private living quarters and be gone for
approximately 30 to 45 minutes. When they returned, the boy who had gone with Silvers looked
very pale and would not talk for the rest of the evening. The victim reported that this conduct
lasted a few years. He explained that he blocked out much of this time and did not currently
recall whether he went to Silvers' private quarters. He related that his brother once went to the
private quarters but he refused to discuss what occurred there.

758

 Summary
Diocesan officials confronted Silvers and read a portion of the letter to him that was
written by the victim. Silvers stated that the allegations were absolutely false. While he
acknowledged that minors came to the rectory basement for recreations, he stated that he would
not tolerate such pinching and grabbing behavior. He also denied that anyone went upstairs to
his private living quarters. He did recall that the victim and his brother had been altar servers.
Silvers asked, "What is [the victim] looking for?" It was explained to him that the victim was
looking for assistance with the cost of his counseling.
The file documents revealed that the Diocese of Pittsburgh paid approximately $1,000
for 10 weeks of the victim's counseling. A letter from the Diocese to the Allegheny County
District Attorney's Office dated February 3, 2012 provided the name of the victim and that
allegations of sexual abuse against Silver had been made.
A memorandum from Bishop Wuerl dated July 24, 2002, was located in Silvers' file. It
stated that on July 22, 2002, Silvers had written and requested permission to withdraw from
active priestly ministry with the understanding that his priestly faculties would be withdrawn.
Wuerl noted that he granted such permission in a letter to Silvers dated July 24, 2002.

759

 Reverend Edward P. Smith
Biographical Information
YEAR OF BIRTH:
YEAR OF DEATH:
ORDINATION:

N/A
1956

N/A

Employment/Assignment History
Unavailable

Sacred Heart Church, Emsworth, PA

Summary
Several legal documents contained in Diocesan records revealed that Father Edward P.
Smith was accused of sexually abusing a 16 -year -old female during the time period when he
was assigned to Sacred Heart. The girl reported that the abuse occurred in the church rectory
when Smith counseled her. The abuse included Smith "fondling her breasts and her genitals."
The documents also stated that the girl:

believed that it would be sinful or wrong to make any kind of accusation against
a priest or a bishop; and that priests and bishops could not and would not engage
in conduct considered evil or wrong or illegal.
A section of the legal documents was entitled "Fraud and Concealment." Within that
section, several allegations were made including the following:

In furtherance of their own interest, including the continued financial support of
parishioners, the primary concern of Diocesan Defendants has been the
protection of the reputation of its priests and therefore its Diocese, including
Father Smith."

Diocesan Defendants have concealed the danger the predator clerics presented
by misrepresenting them as priests in good standing in the following ways:
1.

2.
3.

4.
5.

Enabling their continued unrestricted access to minors;
Assigning them and/or allowing them to reside and serve at
parishes and/or schools within the Diocese;
Allowing them free and unrestricted use of premises of the
Diocese for otherwise unchaperoned activities with minors;
Assigning them to duties specifically involving minors;
Announcing to the public or allowing offending clerics to give the
public less disagreeable or less serious reasons for leaving an
760

 Summary
assignment or position, other than sexual misconduct with
children;
6. Promoting offending clerics within the church hierarchy;
7. Privately assuring concerned parents that offending cleric's
problems would be taken care of;
8. Providing and/or subsidizing education, maintenance and/or
living arrangements for offending clerics after removal from
their assignments or upon their suspension; and
9. Continuously listing offending clerics in official directories
and/or publications by phrases such as absent on leave,
advanced studies, special assignment or retired after removal or
transfer from their assignment or suspension for sexual
misconduct with children; and
10. Allowing offending clerics to honorably retire.
On November 5, 2007, the Diocese of Pittsburgh entered a settlement with 31 individuals
for the total amount of $1.25 Million.

761

 Reverend James E. Somma, M.Ed.
Biographical Information
YEAR OF BIRTH:
YEAR OF DEATH:
ORDINATION:

1934
2004
May 30, 1959

Employment/Assignment History
7/10/1959 - 4/19/1964
Purification of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Ellwood City, PA
4/20/1964 - 5/04/1964
St. Pius V., McKeesport, PA
5/05/1964 - 6/21/1984
Archdiocese for Military Services, Washington, DC
6/22/1984 - 5/11/1985
St. Aloysius, Pittsburgh, PA
5/12/1985 - 1/08/1992
Nativity, Pittsburgh, PA
1/08/1992 - 2/07/1994
Holy Trinity, West Mifflin, PA
2/07/1994 - 2/07/2002
Forbes Regional Hospital- Monroeville &
St. Michael, Pitcairn, PA

Summary
In a handwritten letter dated September 17, 1986, Father Nicholas Dattilo stated that he
spoke with a victim over the telephone. She claimed that a priest sexually abused her for seven
years from age 11' until age 18. She provided the priest's name, but the name was not provided
in Dattilo' s letter. The victim stated that she "expressed concern that the priest was now a
pastor and could be out there harming other children." When Dattilo spoke with Bishop Bosco
and Nick Cafardi on the matter, Cafardi stated, "until she gives her name, we have no credible

evidence."
Dattilo and another priest subsequently met with Father James E. Somma following
another telephone call from the victim in January, 1988. Dattilo concluded that Somma should
not be removed from ministry based on his "strong denial, sterling military career, the passage
of time and the victim's admitted psychiatric treatment." According to handwritten notes dated
February 18, 1988, Somma was evaluated at the St. Luke Institute. A portion of the notes stated,
"May need counseling from neuro-psycho rehabilitation person."
A March 8, 1988 evaluation report from St. Luke's recommended that children and
adolescents not have free access to Somma's home given the present day sensitivity to priests'
relationships with children.

On March 20, 2002, the victim sent a letter to Dattilo advising that she was in counseling,
had obtained an attorney, and had filed a lawsuit. Articles from several newspapers do not
provide her name, but report that Somma forced her to engage in oral sex and sexual intercourse
with him until her late teens. The lawsuit was dismissed based upon the statute of limitations.
Since then, she reported that she has been hospitalized for serious, clinical depression and

762

 Summary
attempted suicide twice. She requested a settlement of $900,000 ($20,000 per year since the
beginning of her ordeal).
A second victim contacted the Diocese in a letter dated April 28, 2002. An adult male
provided the following account of abuse:

I'm not sure how I met Father James E. Somma (Lt. Col., USAF, Ret.), I can
only remember that my mom helped him find the house that would later become
my prison. When I would help out at his [Somma's] house, which was secluded
from town and off the Air Force Base, he would treat me to dinner and movies
and give me pocket money for doing chores when I was 13. This went on for the
first few months, and then I would start spending the weekends at his place,
spending the night there. I thought of him as a "father figure" who praised me,
and all was pretty normal the first few months. Then I remember one night when
we were coming home from somewhere that we stopped by his [Somma's] office
to pick up some videos. I never thought anything of it, then when he played the
tape I knew it was a XXX rated film. I don't think I said anything, I was thrilled,
I mean all young kids dream about this stuff, and here I was getting it with
someone I cared about. Someone who I felt knew what was my best interest,
someone who has two adopted kids of his own.
He explained that he watched these XXX movies while lying in bed with Somma, Somma placed
his hands down his own pants and talked about masturbation or "wacking off" They fell asleep
under the covers and Somma "cuddled him like a teddy bear." The second victim wrote, "I
don't think I knew what was really happening at the time. Anyway I felt protected by him, and
my parents trusted him and I knew they wouldn't let anyone harm me."

From 1984 until 1992, Somma had the second victim fly from Ludwig, Illinois to the
Pittsburgh area. In the Pittsburgh area, Somma showed him pornography and talked about
masturbation. He stated that Somma would explain that when he and his friends were younger,
they would " jerk' each other off and stand around naked and see who could shoot the farthest
load (while erect)." The second victim stated that he was sexually abused by Somma but not
molested. The victim further advised that each time Somma visited his family in Illinois, he
came with a different young boy. He specifically remembered three boys who looked like him,
except for the color of their hair. He then wrote, "When I visited Pittsburgh [at Somma's
expense] the same boys hung around the rectory with him." In addition, the second victim wrote,
"I have not spoken to Father Somma in several years, I do remember him apologizing to me
about the past, but I didn't want to talk about it, only that I felt in my heart that I forgave him."
In April 2000, the second victim was at the seminary and told Father Charles Bober about
Somma's sexual abuse. Bober supported the victim and told him to inform the clergy office of
the abuse, where it could be addressed. The second victim ultimately left the seminary and
entered the military.

763

 Summary
In April of 2002, the Diocese referred the second victim's allegation to the Allegheny
County District Attorney's Office.

Also on April 4, 2002, a note in the Diocesan records was made that stated that there was
a conference call with the second victim and that the victim mentioned that he knew of a woman

who came forward and Somma said, "they didn't believe her they won't believe you."
In May 2002, the Diocese offered to provide the second victim with financial assistance
for counseling and provided him with the names and telephone numbers of several therapists.

By January 2009, the second victim had moved to Illinois and e -mailed the Diocese,
asking for help with therapy. The Diocese offered to pay for his therapy. In October 2011, the
victim had moved to California and again asked the Diocese for help. The Diocese provided
him with the names of 16 therapists and offered to pay for the therapy. In June and September
of 2012, the victim sent e-mail messages to the Diocese advising that he still had not seen a
therapist. Again, the Diocese offered to help by giving him the name and telephone number of
an assistance coordinator and offering financial assistance.
In a March 2002 telephone call and an April 2002 letter to the Diocese, a male claimed
that Somma had sexual contact with him in 1983 when he was in seventh grade at Nativity, and
then on and off from 1984 to 1992 in Pittsburgh. The contact started with tickling and
progressed to Somma performing oral sex on the victim and forcing the victim to perform oral
sex on Somma. The abuse allegedly happened at least once a week. Somma took the victim on
numerous trips, bought him gifts, even a car. The victim reported that Somma also bought him
pornography and offered to pay for a female prostitute. According to the victim, Somma
threatened to kill his parents if he told anyone. The Diocese offered to assist with psychological
and spiritual help. In May 2002, the Diocese gave the victim the names of several counselors
and priests. The Diocese also offered to pay for therapy.
In July 2002, the Diocese referred the third victim's allegation to the Allegheny County
District Attorney's Office.

Diocesan records also contained a letter dated December 14, 1988 wherein the Diocese
informed Bishop Donald Wuerl about "suspicions of Father Somma's misbehavior involving
four named, potential male victims."

764

 Reverend Bartley A. Sorensen
Biographical Information
YEAR OF BIRTH:
YEAR OF DEATH:
ORDINATION:

1949

Unknown
October 23, 1976

Employment/Assignment History
11/1/1976 - 6/29/1981
St. Ferdinand, Cranberry, PA
6/30/1981 - 6/28/1983
St. Colman, Turtle Creek, PA
6/29/1983 - 1/31/1985
St. James, Sewickley, PA
2/1/1985 - 6/11/1990
St. Valentine, Bethal Park, PA
6/11/1990 - 6/1/1992
Our Lady of the Most Blessed Sacrament
6/1/1992 - 9/1/1995
Mater Dolorosa, Chicora, PA
9/1/1995 - 9/10/1999
St. Joseph, Chicora, PA
9/1/1995 - 9/10/1999
Mater Dolorosa, Chicora, PA
9/10/1999 - 1/27/2003
St. Victor, Bairdford, PA
2/9/2004 - 2/4/2011
West Penn Hospital, Pittsburgh, PA
2/4/2011 - 11/14/2011
St. Ann, Pittsburgh, PA
11/14/2011 - 12/9/2011
St. John Fisher, Pittsburgh, PA
Summary
On December 9, 2011, a woman went to the residence of Father Bartley A. Sorensen in
order to speak with him. Upon entering his office, she observed him looking at child
pornography on his computer. She believed that the child was older than five years of age, but
no more than 10 years of age. When she questioned him about it, he acknowledged it. The
woman left and immediately reported the incident to the Diocese of Pittsburgh.

By special mandate, the Bishop placed Sorensen on administrative leave and all his
faculties were revoked. The Diocese then immediately contacted the Allegheny County District
Attorney's Office. Sorensen was arrested that same day. A search of Sorensen's residence
revealed over 5,000 images of child pornography on his computer, as well as on CDs, DVDs
and various print books. The information was then turned over to the United States Attorney
for the Western District of Pennsylvania who prosecuted the crime federally.
On May 23, 2012, Sorensen entered a guilty plea and was incarcerated immediately. On
January 2, 2013, he was sentenced to 97 months of incarceration, followed by five years of
supervised release. Additionally, he is required to permanently register as a convicted sex
offender and pay a fine of $25,000

765

 Reverend Robert E. Spangenberg, C.S.Sp.
Biographical Information
YEAR OF BIRTH:
YEAR OF DEATH:
ORDINATION:

1947

2006
June 15, 1974

Employment/Assignment History
1974

N/A
N/A - 1977
1977
1979
1980
1982
1984
1989
1990
1993
1994
1997

- 1979
- 1980
- N/A
- 1984
- 1989
- 1990
- 1993
- N/A
N/A
- N/A
-

2002
2003

Faculty, Holy Ghost Preparatory School, Bensalem, PA
Associate Pastor, St. Mary Detroit, MI
Associate Pastor, St. Anthony Millvale, PA
Unknown ministry, North Carolina
Assistant Pastor, St. Mary, Sharpsburg, PA
Chaplain, St. Francis de Sale High School, Chicago, IL
Pastor, St. Stanislaus, Pittsburgh, PA
Pastor, St. Anthony, Millvale, PA
Superior of the Congregation Retirement home, Sarasota, FL
Pastor, St. Patrick, Charleston, SC
Administrator, St. Peter Claver, Philadelphia, PA
Pastor, St. James, Hamlet, NC
Pastor, Epiphany, Pittsburgh, PA
Director of Retirement community, Sarasota, FL
Retired

Summary
Father Robert E. Spangenberg professed vows to The Congregation of the Holy Spirit
Province of the United States Order, also known as the Spiritans which is based in Bethel Park.
Much of the information recounted here was discovered through newspaper articles and
Spangenberg's own obituary. The documents provided by the Diocese of Pittsburgh revealed
that Spangenberg was involved with at least two children, possibly more. Since Spangenberg's
holy obligation was to the Spiritans, the Diocese had very few documents on his ministry.
The Diocese was first notified that there was a problem with Spangenberg's ministry in
1988. At that time, a woman wrote to the Diocese and to the Vatican in order to obtain help for
her son. She named Spangenberg as her son's abuser and stated that another priest from
Spangenberg's order was helping them with counseling. She wrote that she was upset that her
letter was simply "noted" and that she has not heard from anyone regarding the matter since.
The priest that was giving counseling to the boy's family was Father Norman E. Bevan,
C.S.Sp from Spangenberg's holy order. In Spangenberg's file, there was a letter dated January
12, 1989, that Bevan wrote to the Father Theodore Rutowski, Associate General Secretary for
766

 Summary
the Diocese. He reported that they had investigated the issue and were enclosing a report of their
findings. Although the Spiritans did not take the accusation by the victim's family serious
enough to remove him, they did reassign Spangenberg to a retirement home in Florida shortly
thereafter. Bevan wrote,

If we felt them to be true, we would recognize our responsibility to remove Father
X from ministry and to insist on therapeutic rehabilitation. At the same time, we
realize that a priest's reputation could be irreparably damaged by false
accusations.
No report on the Spiritans findings were included in Spangenberg' s file to the Grand Jury.
On March 9, 1989, Bevan wrote a letter to the boy's family wherein he stated that he had
spoken with both Spangenberg and the boy about the incident or incidents. He mentioned the
responsibility of the church and that their failure to act could hold them culpable for not
responding. He referred several times to the fact that the incident was more than five years old.
Later in the letter, Bevan stated, "Excessive use of alcohol contributed significantly to clouding
the judgment and perception and further exacerbates the reliability of memory both at the time
of the alleged incident." He acknowledged that "I do believe that Father Spangenberg exercised
questionable judgment."
In 2009, an adult male reported that when he was 15 to 16 years of age, he and
Spangenberg engaged in many types of sexual encounters. The boy reported that he was
involved in street prostitution with young boys known as "Hustlers." He was befriended by
Spangenberg during this period and Spangenberg actually promoted the activity by engaging
the boy in a sexual activities after he ran away from home. Spangenberg also paid the boy a
finder's fee for him to locate younger hustlers (known as "Chickens") to have sex with
Spangenberg.

The boy reported that Spangenberg enjoyed using "huff' (sniffing glue) while
Spangenberg performed oral sex on him. Additionally, Spangenberg would pay for his sexual
services with money from the collection box (typically one dollar bills) and would even pay the
boy in drugs and alcohol. In a note in the Diocesan files, it was documented that the boy thought
Spangenberg was a "really sick guy - he would have person urinate and defecate on him."
The Diocese and the Spiritans continue to share financial responsibility for the cost of
the male's therapy, medication, job searches, criminal court costs and assistance with child
support.

767

 Reverend Paul G. Spisak
Biographical Information
YEAR OF BIRTH:
YEAR OF DEATH:
ORDINATION:

1944

N/A
May 5, 1973

Employment/Assignment History
5/22/1973-10/01/1978
10/02/1978-10/05/1980
10/06/1980-11/19/1981
11/20/1981-6/29/1990
6/25/1988-6/29/1990
6/30/1990-2/07/1994
2/07/1994-2/12/1997
2/16/1998-10/26/1998
7/03/2000-7/11/2002
7/03/2000-7/11/2002
5/30/2003

St. Mary of the Mount, Pittsburgh, PA
St. Benedict the Abbot, McMurray, PA

Sacred Heart, Pittsburgh, PA
St. Dominic, Donora, PA
St. Charles, Donora, PA
St. Philip, Pittsburgh, PA
St. Andrew, Butler, PA
St. Mary, Cecil, PA
Chaplain Nursing Home, Allison Park, PA
Chaplain Nursing Home, Pittsburgh, PA
Removed from ministry

Summary
In October 1998, parish staff from St. Dominic reported Father Paul G. Spisak to the
Diocese of Pittsburgh. Parish staff had found pornographic magazines, tapes and internet
material in Spisak's room that depicted homosexual and sadomasochistic activity. There were
also several pictures of Spisak with two different underage boys including pictures of the boys
showing their buttocks and pictures of Spisak pulling down his swim trunks and pulling down
the boy's pants. According to the staff, Spisak allegedly destroyed these pictures of the boys.
The staff estimated that the boys were 15 years old.
In October 1998, the Coordinator of Clergy Support Services for the Diocese met with a
Diocesan employee. She stated that Spisak had written her a note that month wherein he
indicated that he would be going to St. Luke Institute for evaluation but wanted to reassure her
that he "hadn't done anything wrong in the past or in the present." The secretary advised that
Spisak had always shown a particular interest in her son and had taken him on vacation many
years earlier. She stated that she felt uncomfortable about the attention he gave her son and that
her son would often leave their house and Spisak was expected to arrive.

Spisak was interviewed in October 1998 by the Diocese with respect to the pornography
and pictures that were found. The records indicated that "Spisak denied ever having any sexual
contact with minors or adults" but did admit that "he has been struggling with the problem of
viewing pornography for several years." Further, he did admit to taking several young men of
high school age on vacation with him during his time in Donora sometime between 1981 and
768

 Summary
1990. When asked about the photographs that were seen by the parish housekeeper, Spisak
stated they were taken years ago during these vacations and that the photographs were very
innocent and "just for fun."
In a letter from the Diocese to Wuerl pertaining to Spisak' s evaluation dated November
10, 1998, the findings were recounted as follows:

Spisak has both sexual and interpersonal issues that are significant
enough to warrant residential treatment;
2. Spisak was diagnosed as having a sexual disorder that is compulsive in
nature and is currently manifested in his use of porn;
3. Some of the testing identified Spisak shows a "significant interest in
grade school age males" and his interest in one of the boys pictured in a
photo found in the rectory began when the boy was in 7th or 8th grade.
1.

In a letter dated April 23, 1999, Father Ruggiero wrote to the Diocesan employee's son
and requested to meet with him to discuss disturbing information that his mother had provided
to the church "concerning a priest of the Diocese." Ruggiero stated in the letter, "I am sure
revisiting these painful memories is not easy for you . . . I can only imagine how difficult it must
have been to discuss this with your mother."

A June 21, 1999 letter was sent from Flaherty to Wuerl regarding a meeting with Spisak
at St. Luke:
While Spisak has been vague about the extent of his past involvement with [the
victim], he has been able to acknowledge the sexual motivation in this
relationship. Spisak has also acknowledged a sexual attraction to minors as well
as to adult men. Spisak will need to continue to develop both internal & external
resources to control his emotional impulsivity and his tendency to isolate himself
Without such control, Spisak is at risk to act out his problematic behavior again
(i.e. use of pornography, compulsive masturbation and possible sexual activity
either with minors or adults).

In July 1999, Wuerl assigned Spisak to residence at St. Mary of Mercy to assist with
certain duties in the care of the parish.

On October 15, 2017, Diocesan officials wrote to Wuerl about a request made by Spisak
to expand his "ministerial functions;" specifically "to be able to hear confessions during the
penace services that routinely occur during Advent and Lent." The letter stated that Spisak "has
done well in his recovery." The following recommendations were suggested: That Spisak
continue his current assignment as chaplain to the patients of Vincentian Home and Regency
Hall and continue in residence at St. Alexis with "limited involvement in sacramental work
within the parish at the discretion of the pastor." The other recommendations listed were that
Spisak be permitted to hear confessions only during Advent and Lent in the parishes of St.
Alexis, St. Alphonsus, Sts John and Paul and St. John Neumann

769

 Summary
On May 24, 2002, a memorandum was sent to the Diocese from Sister Margaret. It
included a letter from a psychotherapist to Wuerl. The psychotherapist reported that he had
been Spisak's psychotherapist for almost two years and was writing with hope that "Father
Spisak's priestly ministry can be reestablished in the future." The psychotherapist went on to
say:

[A] llegations of inappropriate sexual contact with a young man who was
mentored by Spisak are not only unsubstantiated, but also not highly credible.
As a friend of the family, Spisak knew [X], the man who made the allegations,
from his infancy . . . The alleged inappropriate contact occurred when Spisak,
[X] and [others] went on a trip to the shore. The allegations were made 15 years
after the trip, after [X] was told by his mother that Spisak was in treatment at St.
Luke's. Upon questioning, [X] described possible fondling by Spisak while they
were both in bed fully clothed. No one from the church spoke directly to [X] or
[others]. Spisak's memory is quite clear . . . he strongly asserts his behavior
with young men was always proper.
It should be noted that no information regarding this fondling incident was given to the
Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General.
In July 9, 2002, Spisak requested to withdraw from active priestly ministry for personal

reasons.
On May 9, 2003, Wuerl sent a letter to Spisak stating:
In light of allegations of sexual abuse of a minor which are deemed to be
established . . . and in consideration of the pastoral needs of the faithful and the
scandal which arises regarding the assignment of a priest to any form of ministry
who has been involved with sexual abuse of a minor, the judgment has been made
that your ministry would be ineffectual and possibly harmful . . . You are
prohibited from performing any public celebration of the sacraments or
sacramental, from wearing clerical attire, presenting yourself as a priest in good
standing or as a representative of the Diocese of Pittsburgh.

On May 15, 2006, Wuerl was advised via letter of the arrest of Spisak. Spisak pled guilty
to a disorderly conduct charge and had to pay a $300.00 fine. Spisak was also required to
"provide a letter from his therapist verifying that he is still in therapy dealing with the sexual
difficulties that have been a part of his life." No further information regarding this issue was
provided by the Diocese.
In June 2017, Special Agents in the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General obtained
the police reports from Upper St. Clair Police Department regarding the arrest of Spisak. The
reports revealed that on April 21, 2006, police responded to the South Hills Village Mall for a
complaint in a first floor men's bathroom. A male reported while in the men's bathroom stall,

770

 Summary
he observed a camera recording him from the rear corner of his stall. The camera was protruding
through the opening of the stall and was being recorded by Spisak. When initially approached
by mall security, Spisak denied having a camera. Spisak then faked that he was ill and ran into
the bathroom. A security guard followed Spisak and saw him flush the memory card from the
camera down the toilet.
On April 26, 2017, Spisak arrived at the police station for further questioning. He
admitted to having the camera, recording the victim in the stall and then flushing the memory
card. Spisak also admitted to police that he had a "sexual fixation with the male buttocks."

771

 Reverend Lawrence F. Stebler
Biographical Information
YEAR OF BIRTH:
YEAR OF DEATH:
ORDINATION:

1934
1997

May 4, 1963

Employment/Assignment History
5/20/1963 - 8/27/1967
St. Hilary, Washington, PA
8/28/1967 - 11/30/1969
Our Lady of Fatima, Hopewell Township, PA
12/1/1969 - 6/13/1988
St. Stephen, Hazelwood, PA
6/14/1988 - 1/1/1996
St. Victor, Bairdford, PA
1/1/1996 - 6/17/1996
Leave of Absence
6/17/1996 - 6/9/1997
St. Theresa of Avila, Perrysville, PA
Summary
The Diocese of Pittsburgh received a report from an adult male who recounted that when
he was approximately eight to nine years of age, he was sexually abused by Father Stebler when
Stebler was assigned to St. Hilary. He explained that his family was very close with Stebler and
that when Stebler would visit their home, he would ask the boy's parents if he could tuck him
into bed at night. The male provided a written statement where he stated:
Once we would get to my room he would lay me down on the bed. He
would then touch my head, eyes, chest, belly, waist and then lower than
that. I remember not liking that and asking him what he was doing? He
told me to lay quietly and not say anything. He said my mom and dad said
it was OK and that he was blessing my organs."
He reported that this abuse occurred for two or three years. The victim also noted that he
did in fact previously disclose the abuse to two priests "who basically told him not to discuss it
further." The documents do not indicate the names of those two priests.
In a letter dated February 13, 2006, the victim's therapist wrote to the Diocese to
document the "severity of the mental health issues that the victim is struggling with as a result
of being sexually abused by a priest as a child in the diocese of Pittsburgh." She further noted
that:

the sexual abuse has stunted the (male's) emotional development to the
point where he cannot emotionally connect with others, which
subsequently leads to severe depression
(male) also has a history of
anxiety and panic attack, drug and alcohol abuse, as well as suicidal
ideation... (male) has had two suicide attempts
(male) has flashbacks
.

.

.

.

772

.

.

 Summary
of dreams which is one of the criteria for
diagnosing Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD
he also experiences
anxiety and panic attacks as well as a fear of being watched.
to the abuse in the form

.

.

.

Diocesan records contained invoices from, and payments made to, the Village of St.
Joseph Counseling Services for therapy sessions. The Diocese paid a total amount of $1,000.
On September 20, 2006, in a letter to Bishop Paul Bradley, an attorney notified the Diocese that
his firm was retained to represent the victim. There was no mention of any pending litigation
made at this time.
2007, the attorney wrote a letter to the Diocese wherein he expressed his
disappointment in not receiving a response to his September 20, 2006 letter. Based on the
dcouments provided by the Diocese, it does not appear that a response was sent to the attorney
On May

1,

773

 Reverend Richard Gerard Terdine
Biographical Information
YEAR OF BIRTH:
YEAR OF DEATH:
ORDINATION:

1938

Unknown
May 1, 1965

Employment/Assignment History
5/13/1965 - 12/05/1965
St. Vitus, New Castle, PA
12/06/1965 - 9/21/1967
St. Scholastica, Aspinwall, PA
9/22/1967 - 6/09/1968
Our Lady of Grace, Scott Township, PA
6/10/1968 - 4/13/1970
St. Lawrence O'Toole, Garfield, PA
6/15/1970 - 8/31/1971
Epiphany, Uptown, Pittsburgh, PA
Duquesne University, Graduate Assistant, Pittsburgh, PA
9/01/1971 - 5/30/1972
5/31/1972 - 8/08/1973
St. Basil, Carrick, PA
8/09/1973 - 5/30/1974
Purification of the Blessed Virgin Mary
5/31/1974 - 11/21/1986
Intermediate Schools Unit, Psychologist
11/22/1986 - 1/16/1989
St. Peter, McKeesport, PA
1/16/1989 - 11/05/1989
Cardinal Wright Center/ Without Assignment
11/06/1989 - 7/02/1990
7/02/1990 - 6/17/1991
6/17/1996 - 7/01/2009
7/01/2009 - 11/01/2009
6/25/2012 - Present

Leave of Absence
UPMC Shadyside Hospital, Pittsburgh, PA
UPMC Presbyterian Hospital, Pittsburgh, PA
UPMC Shadyside Hospital, Pittsburgh, PA
St John Vianney Manor, Pittsburgh, PA

Summary
A Ministerial Assessment Board Report dated April 9, 2003 detailed an allegation that
Father Richard Gerard Terdine abused a 16 -year -old boy who worked part-time at the rectory
of St. Peter's church. The report revealed that in December, 1988, Terdine touched or patted the
genital area of the boy on two -to -three occasions, gave the boy an x -rated videotape to watch,
provided him with condoms, and massaged his back.

Shortly afterwards, Diocesan officials met with Terdine to discuss the allegations.
Terdine denied any sexual touching of the boy. However, he did admit that he gave the boy an
x -rated video as well as condoms. He stated that he wanted to educate the boy because he
seemed naïve about human sexuality. Terdine subsequently resigned from his assignment at St.
Peter. The Diocese sent him to St. Luke Institute for a psychological evaluation.
On May 11, 1990, St. Luke's provided the Diocese with the following assessment of
Terdine that stated:

774

 Summary
Father Terdine does not have a sexual behavior disorder. We see him as at very
little risk of acting out sexually, either with youth or others, and this good
prognosis is supported by the formal psychological testing which indicates good
impulse control and a very high need to comply and obey. One downside element
is noted in that there does appear to be little growth in his sexual awareness and
understanding.
The Ministerial Assessment Board subsequently made the following finding about the
allegation:
The purchase of condoms and x -rated video was wrong to the point

of immoral;
While not illegal or immoral, it was poor judgement for Father
Terdine to massage the young boy's neck;
Given the totality of the circumstances acknowledged by Father
Terdine, it was extremely poor judgement for him not to inform the
victim's parents or at least his school guidance counselor of the
social or sexual concerns expressed by the victim leading to the
purchase of the condoms and the X-rated video tape.

As a result, the Board recommended that Terdine not be assigned to any parish. The
Board stated:

It is the opinion of this Board that Father Terdine's admitted conduct is sufficient
to warrant this recommendation. Moreover, given the possibility of the truth of
averments made by the (victim), the moral integrity of the Diocese cannot be
jeopardized by any assignment of Father Terdine.
Terdine was thereafter placed in restricted ministry and assigned as the chaplain at
UPMC Hospitals throughout Pittsburgh.

775

 Summary
an adult female reported an allegation of sexual abuse to the Diocese of
involving
and
The abuse occurred
in the early
when she was a student at
At the time of the complaint,
was deceased.
In

On

,

,

Diocesan officials interviewed the female who advised that she was

M

On
was interviewed in connection with the allegations. He denied
them. He was placed on administrative leave and was scheduled to undergo a psychological
evaluation at St. Luke Institute.
On
, counsel for the Diocese sent a letter to the
County District
Attorney's Office advising that the allegations included "inappropriate touch of a minor that

776

REDACTED -- ONGOING APPELLATE
LITIGATION

 occurred sometime between
age."

,

i,vhen the

alleged victim

i,vas

between=

years of

In a
memorandum sent by
to
advised that the victim's account "seemed to have a semblance of credibility." However,
also advised that
denied the abuse had ever occurred and that the "Clergy Office felt very
strongly that
was believable in his denial of the allegation."

In

Diocesan Assistance Coordinator, contacted several priests,
during the same time
were there. These individuals wrote letters advising that they did not
,

a secretary, and at least one teacher who were assigned to

that

and

On
documented a meeting with the victim. Among other things,
the victim provided a drawing of her recollection of the

sent a memorandum to
Among other things,

On
with details of

.

providing him
advised that

advising that as of
, the
administrative leave placed upon him had been lifted and that the findings of the investigation
were "proven to be unsupported and lacking a semblance of truth." The letter then restored all
of his priestly faculties. No restrictions were included in the letter.
On

,

a letter was sent to

On
, the Diocese sent a letter to the victim advising that the Diocesan
Review Board was unable to reach the conclusion that
was involved in any activity that
she had alleged and that he would continue in his ministry.
the victim received a letter from the Diocese that included a check
in the amount of $3,965 to pay for her continued therapy from January 2004 through July 2004.
On

,

777

REDACTED -- ONGOING APPELLATE
LITIGATION

 issued a
stating that
was seeking to be given faculties and/or exercise priestly ministry in the Diocese of
Among other things,
stated that
was in good standing and that
"no accusations of misconduct have ever been made against him, nor has he ever been involved
in any incident, to my knowledge, which has led to potential or public scandal."

778

REDACTED -- ONGOING APPELLATE
LITIGATION

 Reverend Charles Thomas
Biographical Information
YEAR OF BIRTH:
YEAR OF DEATH:
ORDINATION:

1909
1967

June 16, 1935

Employment/Assignment History
1935
1937

-

1937
1940

3/1940 - 11/1940
1940 - 1941
1941 - 1944
1944 -1952
1952 -1957
1952 -1957
1957 - 1965
8/1965 - 9/1965
1965 - 1967

6/1966

Killian, Mars, PA
Peter, Pittsburgh, PA
Wendelin, Carrick PA
Martin, Pittsburgh, PA
Mary Mercy, Pittsburgh, PA
Coleman, Turtle Creek, PA
Hugh. Carmichaels, PA
Marcullus, Pittsburgh, PA
Paul, Butler, PA
Christopher, Prospect, PA
Robert Bellarmine, Pittsburgh, PA
Resigned
St.
St.
St.
St.
St.
St.
St.
St.
St.
St.
St.

Summary
Dioecesan records contained a memorandum dated April 2, 1996 that was written to
Father Charles Thomas regarding an allegation that had been made against him. The
memorandum stated that an adult male had reported that, when he was a minor, he was sexually
assaulted by Thomas on several occasions beginning in 1958 when Thomas was asssigned to
the St. Hugh. The male stated that the assaults began with Thomas fondling him and showing
him pornographic material. The assaults then progressed to anal penetration of the victim by
Thomas. The victim also related that a nun (name unknown) assigned to St. Hugh helped
Thomas in some of the assaults. He explained that this unknown nun had sexually assaulted
him on separate occasions as well.
The records revealed that the victim was compensated $15,042.50 by the Diocese of
Pittsburgh in connection with his private psychiatric counseling sessions from 2011 throughout
2016.

779

 Summary
In a letter to the Diocese dated
, an adult male reported that he was sexually
on three occasions in

theme

abused by

He stated that

had asked him and

780

REDACTED -- ONGOING APPELLATE
LITIGATION

 Reverend John William Wellinger
Biographical Information
YEAR OF BIRTH:
YEAR OF DEATH:
ORDINATION:

1944
2011

May 16, 1970

Employment/Assignment History
6/15/1970-5/20/79
5/21/1975-5/1977
6/08/1977-8/31/1979
9/01/1979-6/29/1981
6/30/1980-6/29/1981
6/30/1981-7/14/1985
7/15/1985-1/25/1987
1/26/1987-6/23/1987

6/24/1987-6/24/1991
8/01/1987
6/11/1991
1/24/1992-2/06/1994
2/07/1994-6/01/1995
5/16/1995
5/18/1995
1/16/2003
3/01/2003

Assistant at St. Wendelin, Pittsburgh, PA
Graduate Studies in Theology, Catholic University of America,
Washington, D.C.
Assistant Pro Tem, St. Athanasius, West View, PA
Faculty of the Pontifical College Josephinum, Worthington, OH
for the scholastic year of 1979-1980
Assistant Pro Tem, St. Cyril of Alexandria, Pittsburgh, PA
Assistant, St. James, Wilkinsburg, PA
Parochial Vicar Assistant, St. Clare, Clairton, PA
Parochial Vicar Assistant, Our Lady of Grace,
Scott Township, PA
Pastor, Holy Spirit, West Mifflin, PA
Campus Ministries, Community College of Allegheny County
South Campus, West Mifflin, PA
Resignation for reasons of health
Parochial Vicar (Pro Tem) at St. George, Allentown, PA
Parochial Vicar, St. Philip, Crafton, PA
Resigned for personal reasons
Leave of Absence
Placed on Administrative Leave
Declared de facto withdrawn from active ministry

Summary
On or about February 19, 1986, Father John Wellinger was sent to the St. Luke's Institute
for a number of issues, including drug and alcohol abuse.

Diocesan records received pursuant to a Grand Jury subpoena revealed that on the
evening of October 8, 1987, Wellinger provided alcohol and drugs to an 18 -year -old parishioner
of the Holy Spirit church. The parishioner had a "bad reaction" to the drugs and had to be taken
to Shadyside Hospital for treatment. Within days, Wellinger was confronted by the victim's
parents. Efforts were made by the church to promote a reconciliation between Wellinger, the
victim and the victim's parents.

781

 Summary
On July 12, 1988, a letter was sent to Bishop Wuerl from "Concerned Parishioners" of
Holy Spirit. This letter outlined concerns about drug use and excessive drinking to the point of
intoxication by Wellinger. The parishioners also expressed concern about Wellinger exposing
the young people of the church to illegal drugs.
On June 22, 1989, Father Theodore Rutkowski of the Office of Clergy and Pastoral Life
received a letter from a parishioner at Holy Spirit. Bishop Wuerl was carbon copied in the
correspondence. In this letter, the parishioner listed a number of problems that the parish was
having with Wellinger. In part, the letter read "Just to refresh your memory and bring you up
to date on John's ministry here at Holy Spirit here are some of the significant problems . . ."
The list included: "Giving drugs and alcohol to teens; " "Teens in the parish have been warned
by their parents about drugs from Father; " and "Young men staying at the parish house."
On June 3, 1991, Wellinger was drinking alcoholic beverages with a 24 -year -old man in
the rectory. Wellinger unbuttoned the man's pants and began to perform oral sex on him without
consent. A few days later, the victim reported the incident to the Diocese. Wellinger was
subsequently questioned by Diocesan officials, at which time he admitted to the unsolicited
sexual activity with the victim. Wellinger was then sent to St. Michael's Community in St.
Louis, Missouri for an evaluation. Wellinger' s absence from the parish was explained as a
request for resignation for "reasons of health."
On January 2, 1992, a meeting took place between Wuerl and Wellinger. The Bishop
agreed that Wellinger could return to priestly ministry and was appointed as Parochial Vicar
(Pro Tem) at St. George in Allentown.
On July 30, 1994, Wellinger was stopped by officers of the Borough of Crafton Police
Department for driving under the influence of alcohol. Father David Zubik, Director of Clergy
Personnel, subsequently notified Wellinger that he had been placed on a leave of absence until
he returned from an evaluation at St. Luke's Institute. Wellinger was at St. Luke's from
September 29, 1994 to March 27, 1995. Because he did not complete the required treatment,
his leaving was unauthorized by the Diocese. On May 18, 1995, Wuerl granted Wellinger a
leave of absence from June 1, 1995 to December 1, 1995 for "personal reasons."
On September 22, 1995, Diocesan officials met with the parents of a 17 -year -old boy.
The parents said that a week earlier, their son told them he had been sexually molested by
Wellinger. This abuse reportedly occurred in June 1991, when he the victim was 13 years old.
The victim stated he and some of his friends were watching videos with Wellinger late into the
night. They all fell asleep on the floor. The victim awakened to find that Wellinger had put his
hands down the victim's pants and was fondling his penis. More than two weeks later, on
October 10, 1995, Diocesan officials met with Wellinger to discuss the allegations. Wellinger
admitted to spending a lot of time with the victim. Wellinger denied consciously touching the
victim's genitals. Wellinger explained that he did fall asleep on the floor with the victim. He
said it was "pretty tight quarters" so he may have "unknowingly" touched the victim's genitals.
The Diocese did not report the matter to law enforcement for years. Instead, arrrangments were
made to provide counseling for the victim. The victim later notified Diocesan officials that

782

 Summary
during counseling, he was informed that the sexual abuse that occurred was his own fault. By
the year 2004, the victim's allegations against Wellinger became part of a lawsuit that accused
the Diocese of conspiracy to cover up the sexual abuse of minors. By March 21, 2005, the
victim had disclosed Wellinger had molested him on several occasions. He stated these
incidents occurred both in the rectory where Wellinger lived and at the victim's home. In 2007,
Bishop Paul Bradley settled the lawsuit, which included accusations from 32 individuals against
17 priests, for $1.25 million.
On November 9, 2012, a woman contacted the Diocese to report that her brother had just
died in August of that year. She indicated that about a month prior to his death, he told her he
had been molested by Wellinger, while Wellinger was assigned to St. James. The woman
explained that her brother was an altar boy when the abuse occurred and he was about 11 or 12
years of age at that time. She estimated the assault(s) took place in 1981 to 1982. She added
that Wellinger used illegal drugs and he provided drugs to some of the children.

783

 Reverend Joseph S. Wichmanowski
Biographical Information
YEAR OF BIRTH:
YEAR OF DEATH:
ORDINATION:

1919
1977

Unknown

Employment/Assignment History
7/13/1944- 12/15/1945
12/06/1945- 10/23/1946
10/24/1946- 5/18/1949
5/19/1949- 12/03/1952
12/04/1952- 6/12/1957
6/13/1957- 6/27/1962
6/27/1962- 1/31/1969
2/01/1969- 4/28/1977

St. Mary (Polish) in McKeesport, PA
Holy Cross in Glas sport, PA
St. Albert on South Side Pittsburgh, PA
St. John Cantius in Sharpsburg, PA
St. Stanislaus in Ambridge, PA
Chaplin Allegheny Co. Workhouse
Pastor St. Cyprian in Pittsburgh, PA
Pastor St. Stanislaus in Ambridge, PA

Summary
The files provided by the Diocese of Pittsburgh included an April 29, 2004 article entitled
"Conway Woman Alleges Priest Abuse." This article reported that a victim alleged that Father
Joseph S. Wichmanowski repeatedly forced her to perform sexual acts on him beginning when
she was 12 years old. The victim alleged that Wichmanowski forced her to perform oral sex on
him, provided her with alcohol in the form of church wine, and made her dress provocatively.
The victim related that at one point Wichmanow ski invited her to New York, where he told her
he would/wanted to impregnate her.
On June 23, 2004, a personal and confidential letter was sent from counsel for the
Diocese to the Beaver County District Attorney's Office. The letter described allegations of
abuse by Wichmanowski while "he was at St. Stanislaus Parish in Ambridge, PA." This letter
appeared to refer to the victim described above.
In an article dated September 17, 2007, it was reported that this victim, along with 31
other victim of abuse, was part of a settlement with the church for payments totaling $1.2
Million.

784

 Reverend George A. Wilt
Biographical Information
YEAR OF BIRTH:
YEAR OF DEATH:
ORDINATION:

1931

N/A
May 30, 1959

Employment/Assignment History
6/10/1959 - 3/17/1968
Sacred Heart, Pittsburgh, PA
3/18/1968 - 5/26/2003
St Bernard, Pittsburgh, PA
Summary
In a memorandum dated November 17, 2000, and authored by Rita Flaherty of the
Diocese of Pittsburgh, it was recorded that a woman had reported that Father George A. Wilt
made unwanted advances and embraced and kissed her on her mouth. She reported that Wilt
embraced her two more times and again tried to kiss her on her mouth, but that she was able to
turn her head. Wilt also made what she felt were inappropriate comments to her.

In another memorandum dated April 11, 2003, and authored by Flaherty, it was noted
that the Director of the Religious Education Department at St. Bernard expressed several
concerns about Wilt's behavior. She stated that Wilt failed to take immediate action when it
was discovered that the janitor was viewing pornography on a school computer. Furthermore,
he dismissed several incidents where the same janitor walked in on women and girls while they
were using the bathroom. Wilt was also alleged to have engaged in inappropriate physical
contact with adult women and teenage girls. It was further reported that people had left the
parish because of inappropriate touching and kissing on the mouth, often during first
communions. Also mentioned in this memorandum were two other allegations of inappropriate
conduct by Wilt that were made by adult women. One incident occurred in November 2002 in
Wilt's office with an intern. The other incident occurred several months prior to April 2003 and
stemmed from a confession in the church sanctuary.
In another Diocesan memorandum dated April 24, 2003, it was noted that Wilt denied
kissing eighth grade girls on the lips and inappropriately touching adult women. Flaherty also
wrote in the memorandum that Wilt was informed of the situation with the janitor. While Wilt
agreed that the behavior was inappropriate, he asked officials several times if the janitor could
be re -hired.
In a memorandum dated May 2, 2003, Flaherty noted that two women, a youth minister
and CCD secretary, met with Diocesan officials. Both women stated they had seen Wilt
inappropriately touch women during various celebrations and kiss eighth grade girls.

785

 Summary
In a memorandum dated December 10, 2003, Flaherty wrote that adult women had
accused Wilt of inappropriate advances. It was the recommendation of the Diocesan Review
Board, however, that Wilt retain his faculties as they found him suitable for ministry.

On March 8, 2004, a victim reported she had been sexually abused by Wilt sometime
between 1961 and 1963. She stated the abuse occurred when she was in the seventh or eighth
grade at St. Bernard. The victim explained that she had sought counseling from Wilt because
she was being sexually abused by her father at the time. She thought Wilt could make it stop.
Wilt invited her into a small room in the parish house and during their conversation, he fondled
her. On another occasion she was called out of class and asked to go to the rectory. The victim
stated that Wilt began to fondle her again and she ran out of the room and hid for the rest of the
day until school was out. She never met with Wilt again.

Wilt was not assigned to St. Bernard until 1968. Wilt said that he was only at the parish
once prior to his assignment there, when he paid his respects of the passing of the pastor
(Monsignor Quigley). He said he was there for about 15 minutes.

786

 Reverend Robert G. Wolk
Biographical Information
YEAR OF BIRTH:
YEAR OF DEATH:
ORDINATION:

1940

N/A
May 4, 1966

Employment/Assignment History
6/07/1966-5/30/1972
9/1972-5/1974
5/30/1974-1986
7/22/1979-6/10/1981
5/13/1986-9/23/1987
9/24/1987

St. Athanasius, West View, PA

Attended Catholic University of America
Assistant Chancellor of the Diocese of Pittsburgh
La Roche College, Pittsburgh, PA
St. Thomas More Church, Bethel Park, PA
Resigned

Summary
Located within the confidential files of the Diocese of Pittsburgh was a handwritten
memorandum from "T.R.", presumably Reverend Theodore Rutkowski, regarding Father Robert
Wolk. It indicated that on September 22, 1987, Father Bober and Rutkowski met with an adult
male who attended St. Vincent College in Latrobe, PA. The victim explained that he had been
experiencing anger and frustration because he felt that he had been used and abused. The victim
explained that when he was 12 years old and in the sixth grade, he became friendly with Wolk,
a resident at St. Thomas More. The victim stated he was invited into the rectory by Wolk to
watch football games and to socialize. Eventually the use of cigarettes and alcohol became part
of this socializing. The socialization progressed into "belly rubs" and then "oral sex on the
part of both." The victim added that x -rated movies were sometimes involved as well. The
victim reported sometimes he would stay overnight at the rectory in Wolk' s apartment. The
victim indicated that his sexual relationship continued with Wolk for an extended period of time.
The victim added, however, that he was greatly concerned about his brother, who was two years
younger than him. The victim indicated that his younger brother had a similar sexual
relationship with Wolk, which included "oral sex on the part of both." The victim indicated
that neither he, nor his brother, had a current relationship with Wolk.
Located within this same memorandum was a notation that read:
On 9-24-87, Father Wolk came to the Clergy office to meet with Father
Rutkowksi and Father Guay. Father Wolk admitted without hesitation his sexual
relationship with [the two minor victims]. He said his relationship with the
victims was over. He understood the necessary action to be taken by the Diocese,
as explained by Father Rutkowski and Father Guay. Father Wolk will leave the
rectory today. He will go to St Fidelis Monastery, Herman, PA., under the
supervision of Fathers Brendan Malloy and Bernard Finerty, where he will

787

 Summary
remain until he departs for St. Luke Institute for an October 12-23, 1987
evaluation there. He will not celebrate mass publicly. He will not return to the
parish after today's departure. He will not communicate with (the victims), nor
the (victims' family)."
From October 9, 1987 until June 21, 1988, Wolk received treatment/therapy at St. Luke
Institute in Maryland.
On or about August 1988, a lawsuit was filed by the two above -mentioned victims. Wolk
was named as a defendant along with Father Francis Pucci and Father Richard Zula.
On or about September 1988, the two victims reported the assaults to the Bethel Park
Police Department and the Pennsylvania State Police. It was subsequently determined that some
of the sexual assaults committed by Wolk on one of the victims occurred in Washington County.
This happened on or about 1982, when the victim's family moved to Washington County.
On October 11, 1988, Wolk was charged in Allegheny County with sexually assaulting
the two victims, who were altar boys at the time of the assaults. These assaults occurred over a
six year period. The charges against Wolk involved oral sodomy and attempted anal sex. During
the investigation it was alleged that other unnamed priests conducted sado-masochistic rituals
on several young boys in Washington and Somerset Counties, as well as in Florida and Canada.
Contacted shortly after news that charges had been filed against Wolk, Father Ron Lengwin,
spokesman for the Diocese, was quoted in an October 11, 1988 article in the Pittsburgh Press as
stating:

Our response was to follow the diocesan policy that was set for cases of alleged
sexual misconduct. The policy calls for the diocese to interview the person said
to be abused, that person's parents or both, as circumstances dictate, then
interview the subject of the allegation. The third step is the removal of the priest
from his assignment if that is deemed appropriate after the initial interviews.
The fourth step would be medical and psychological assessment, including
counseling, of the alleged offender and finally, pastoral concern and support for
the alleged victims and the priest. St. Luke's is an extended psychiatric care
facility for priests.
On January 24, 1990, Wolk pled guilty in Allegheny County to four counts of involuntary
deviate sexual intercourse and to corruption of minors. He was sentenced to five to 10 years of
incarceration. At his sentencing, a clinical psychologist from St. Luke's testified on Wolk' s
behalf. He stated that Wolk underwent about seven months of inpatient treatment and attended
outpatient therapy at the hospital. He stated that Wolk suffered from a psychological disorder a compulsive attraction to adolescents which the psychologist "likened to alcoholism."
On June 28, 1990, Wolk pleaded guilty in Washington County to two counts of
involuntary deviate sexual intercourse. In the Washington County case, Wolk received a
sentence of five to 10 years, to be served concurrently to his Allegheny County sentence.
788

 Summary
A Pittsburgh Press newspaper article quoted then -Washington County District Attorney
John C. Pettit as saying the cooperation of the Diocese in the investigation was "minimal at
best." Pettit accused church leaders of making his investigators' job more difficult. He noted
a difficulty in locating the whereabouts of certain priests that the investigators were trying to
interview. Pettit also said investigators were looking into more than 200 acts Wolk allegedly
committed with one of the youths in Canada, Virginia, Florida and Ohio.

On June 30, 1994, Wolk requested that the Diocesan Bishop proceed with the formal
process of seeking a dispensation from the obligations of priesthood.
On October 3, 2003, Diocesan officials met with a 37 -year-old man about alleged abuse
by Wolk in the mid -to -late 1980's. The man said that as a teen he had worked in the rectory of
St. Thomas Moore. He stated that on one occasion he was in the bathroom when Wolk entered.
Wolk complained that he [Wolk] was in pain and needed to use the bathroom. He asked the
teen if he would help him use the bathroom by holding his [Wolk' s] penis. The teen felt it was
an odd request, but did so, viewing it as someone who needed help. On another occasion, Wolk
gave the teen a massage. As the massage continued, the teen heard the sound of Wolk undoing
his belt buckle. When the teen asked Wolk what he was doing, Wolk replied he was just
loosening his belt to get comfortable. A little while later, Wolk told the teen he would be putting
some lotion on his neck. Although the teen did not see any lotion, he felt Wolk put something
wet over his neck. Wolk then took out a handkerchief and wiped off the excess. During the
meeting, the victim told the Diocesan representatives that he wanted a face-to-face meeting with
Wolk. The representatives explained to the victim that Wolk was no longer a priest. They
suggested that the victim discuss the matter with his therapist.

Diocesan records also contained an October 18, 2017 "Confidential Memorandum" to
the file. The memorandum memorialized a telephone call made to Sister Marilyn Welch, Victim
Assistance Coordinator in the Altoona/Johnstown Diocese. In the memorandum, it was noted
that an attorney had contacted the Diocese of Pittsburgh on behalf of his client. The attorney
stated his client was accusing Father Francis Luddy and Wolk of abusing and molesting him. It
was soon determined Luddy was a priest from the Altoona/Johnstown Diocese
On March 12, 2009, yet another adult male contacted the Diocese alleging abuse by
Wolk. On March 17, 2009, this individual was interviewed by Diocesan representatives and he
stated that he was abused by Wolk in 1968 to 1970 or 1971, while Wolk was assigned to St.
Athanasius. The victim stated he was 14 to 17 years of age when the abuse took place. Some
of the incidents occurred at the parish, while others occurred at a retreat house on Route 8.
Through negotiations, the Diocese subsequently paid tuition for the victim's children to attend
Catholic schools in Allegheny County.
On September 9, 2010, the Diocese received a telephone call from Father Michael
Yaksick of Midland. Yaksick reported that one of his parishioners came to him regarding sexual
abuse that occurred during his childhood. This particular victim indicated that the priests

789

 Summary
involved in the abuse were Wolk and Father Leo Burchianti. (See narrative regarding Leonard
Burchianti in this report for further information regarding sexual abuse allegations against him)
On September 14, 2010, Diocesan Assistance Coordinator Rita Flaherty conducted an
interview of this victim. The victim told her he was now 44 years of age. He stated that when
he was 12 years of age, Wolk took him to St. Vincent's in Westmoreland County for an
overnight stay. While at the campus, Wolk allowed him to drive Wolk' s car. He stated that this
was pretty exciting, since he was only 12 years old at the time. He stated that during the
overnight stay Wolk inappropriately touched him and performed oral sex on him. He also
advised that several years later, when he was between 16 and 20 years of age, Burchianti
cornered him in the sacristy and passionately kissed him, including putting his tongue "down
his throat."

790

 Reverend William B. Yockey
Biographical Information
YEAR OF BIRTH:
YEAR OF DEATH:
ORDINATION:

1952

N/A
October

1,

1977

Employment/Assignment History
10/13/1977-10/01/1978
10/02/1978-6/28/1983
6/29/1983-5/31/1984
6/29/1983-5/31/1984
6/01/1984-2/16/1986
2/17/1986-10/11/1987
10/12/1987-1/22/1989
1/23/1989-7/25/1991
1/23/1989-4/20/1989
4/21/1989-7/25/1991
7/25/1991
7/25/1991

Assumption Church, Bellevue, PA
St. Bernadette, Monroeville, PA
Department of Social & Community Development,
Diocese of Pittsburgh
St. Canice, Pittsburgh, PA
St. Therese of Lisieux, Munhall, PA
St. Winifred, Mt. Lebanon, PA
Allegheny County Jail
Chaplain/Coordinator, Allegheny County Jail
St. Luke, Carnegie, PA (In Reserve)
St. Anthony, Bridgeville, PA (In Reserve)
Leave of Absence
Withdrawn from Active Ministry

Summary
Located in the files of the Diocese of Pittsburgh for Father William B. Yockey was a
handwritten letter dated May 27, 1991 by Father Robert Guay. In part, the letter stated,
In May of 1991, a gentlemen, age 25, came to one of our diocesan priests and
alleged that he had been sexually molested by Yockey at the age of 16. This
same gentleman also indicated that a friend of his had also been sexually
molested by Yockey at the age of 18. A meeting was arranged with these two
gentlemen regarding their allegations with diocesan officials. The gentlemen
indicated they had gotten to know Yockey during his first parish assignment
when they were in 6th or 7th grade. They became friends with Yockey, going to
movies and shooting the breeze with him in his room at the parish. After a year,
Yockey was transferred to a new parish assignment and the friendship would
continue. Yockey would often take (them) to his cabin outside the city to go
fishing. They indicated that Yockey would always allow them to drink beer.
One of the gentlemen would spend an overnight or weekends at Father Yockey's
new assignment. On one occasion [one gentleman] indicated that Yockey
sexually molested him in October of 1981. The pair had returned to the rectory
following a Halloween party. Both had been drinking. [The first victim] was a
junior in High School, age 16. [The first victim] told us he "crashed out"
791

 Summary
following the party after drinking too much. He fell asleep on the couch in
Yockey's den. Yockey went to his own bedroom. At some point the victim fell
off the couch andfound Yockey fondling his genitals. Yockey then got on top of
the victim and tried to kiss him.
Another gentleman said a similar thing
happened to him at another parish assignment in 1983. The [second victim]
was 18 years of age at the time. Once again alcohol was involved by both
Father Yockey and [the second victim]. The victim passed out and awoke to
find Yockey feeling his genitals and attempting to kiss his genitals.
When
Yockey was confronted about these allegations on May 20, 1991, he
acknowledged that the incident with the [first victim] , age 16, was true. He also
acknowledged that he, Yockey was drinking quite a lot during his first few years
of ministry. When asked about the allegations regarding [the second victim],
age 18, Father Yockey does not recall anything, but he did note that they were
probably drinking and that it was not impossible and won't deny it, but he
cannot remember it. Yockey has been put on administrative leave from his
assignment as chaplain to the County Jail. He is not to celebrate sacraments
or ... publicly. I trust this information is helpful to you in helping us discern
what might be best for Father Yockey in the future. I might add that Yockey
told us that he was never involved with anyone else that he is aware of
.

.

.

.

On July 18, 1991, Yockey sent a letter of resignation to Bishop Donald Wuerl. A portion
of the letter stated, "I have discussed my decision with Father Guay and he informed me that
medical coverage and perhaps some salary would be available if I request it. I would appreciate
it.

I.,

On April 3, 2006, a letter was sent from Father James G. Young, Episcopal Vicar for
Clergy to "whom it may concern." The letter stated:

Enclosed is a questionnaire that you sent in regards to William B. Yockey who
has applied for a position with the Veterans Administration. William B. Yockey
was a priest in the Diocese of Pittsburgh from May 1976 to August 1991, when
he asked for and was granted a leave of absence for personal reasons. We have
had no contact with him since that time and therefore are not able to provide
any information for you.
In this letter, there was no mention of Yockey' s admission to sexually molesting a minor, or of
Yockey' s potential threat to prospective victims.

On July 10, 2009, a letter was received by Bishop Zubik from an individual who attended
the Assumption in Bellevue. A portion of the letter stated:

Bishop Zubik, I was a victim of a sexual assault when I was in high school.
Years later, a close friend shared a similar story involving the same priest. At
that time we contacted Father John Gallagher at Assumption Parish. Father
Gallagher set up a meeting with Father Guay and yourself At some time in the
792

 Summary
near future, Bill Yockey was dismissed or left the priesthood. I have never
received a phone call or any contact from the Diocese concerning this matter.
On August 7, 2009, a confidential memorandum was sent from Rita Flaherty, Diocesan
Assistance Coordinator, to Zubik. A portion of the letter read:

"In preparation for your meeting with [the victim] on August 11, 2009 at 12:00
p.m., I share the following information. The [victim] called me on July 9, 2009
to say that he was an abuse victim of Father William Yockey. He stated that he
came forward in the early 1990's when Father Bob Guay was in the Clergy
Office. Father John Gallagher initially notified our office about his allegation
as [the victim] first talked with Father Gallagher about this. The victim's
allegation against Yockey involved inappropriate sexual contact with [the victim
and another individual]. At the time of the incident, [victim] was a senior in
high school (age 18) but his friend was only 16. (Our confidentialfiles confirms
that both the victim and his friend, did indeed come to the diocese in 1991.)
[Victim] stated that since he came forward, he has not asked anything of the
diocese. At this time, he is requesting some assistance with the tuition for his
three children so they can continue with their Catholic education . . . Since my
first contact with [victim], I have been working with Ron Bowes, Father Kris
Stubna and Father Jim Young to see what help might be available to the victim's
children. I have included a letter that was sent out to the victim's family on July
27, 2009 showing the original amount of aid that was offered along with a
revised amount. Father Young is also willing to offer an additional $2,000 in
financial aid to the family as soon as he is able to figure out a confidential way
to do this while at the same time, having a record for auditing purposes. Father
Young planned to talk with either Fred O'Brien or Joe Luttringer about how best
to accomplish this."
In a letter from Zubik to the aforementioned victim, the Bishop wrote, "I have received
your letter requesting tuition support for your three children and I will make sure that your
request is taken care of." The Diocesan records contained records specifying certain payments
to the victim. One such document dated April 10, 2012, noted that a total of $10,065 was
provided to three of the victim's children for their Catholic education. The money was taken
from the "Catholic Charities Fund." A document dated June 12, 2012, indicated that a total of
$12,690 was provided for the catholic education of two of the victim's children. The money
was listed as "tuition assistance grants" for the 2012-2013 school year. A document dated June
6, 2013 listed that $7,860 was provided to two of the victim's children from the Bishop's
Education Fund and Scholastic Opportunity Scholarship Fund. The payment was listed under
an "educational grant award" for the 2013-2014 school year. Additional payments were made
to the victim for the 2014-2015, 2015-2016 and 2016-2017 school years that totaled $24,130.00.

On December 17, 2013, a letter was received by Bishop Waltersheid. It was sent from
an individual who stated that he was molested as a young boy by Yockey. On December 20,
2013, a meeting took place with the victim at the Diocese office. During the meeting, the victim
793

 Summary
stated his father died when he was nine years old and his mother died the following year. The
victim was then raised by his maternal aunt, who lived in Wilkinsburg. The victim attended St.
Bernadette in nearby Monroeville where Yockey was assigned from 1978 to 1983. While the
boy attended the parish, Yockey began to molest him. The victim stated that Yockey performed
oral sex on him in the rectory, in his [Yockey' s] car, and even at the home of his aunt. During
the meeting, the victim asked if there had been any other allegations made against Yockey.
Waltersheid responded, "that there have been." The victim was offered counseling by the
Diocese.

Although the Diocese had information regarding alleged criminal actions on the part of
Yockey as far back as the year 1986, there was only one document located in their files that was
dated January 6, 2014 that illustrated a report to the Allegheny County District Attorney's
Office. The document was dated January 6, 2014. There was no mention of the history of
Yockey' s reported sexual assaults.

794

 Reverend Theodore P. Zabowski
Biographical Information
YEAR OF BIRTH:
YEAR OF DEATH:
ORDINATION:

1943

N/A
May 16, 1970

Employment/Assignment History
6/15/1970 - 5/20/1975
Parochial Vicar, St. Lawrence O'Toole, Garfield, PA
5/21/1975 - 10/05/1980
Parochial Vicar, Most Holy Name, North Side, PA
10/06/1980 - 1/13/1981
Parochial Vicar, Holy Family, Lawrenceville, PA
1/14/1981 - 1/10/1982
Parochial Vicar, St. Catherine of Sweden, Wildwood, PA
1/11/1982 - 6/28/1985
Parochial Vicar, St. Mary, Glenshaw, PA
6/29/1985 - 10/26/1992
Pastor, St. Adalbert, South Side, PA
10/27/1992 - 7/08/1996
Pastor/Resigned, St. Richard, Richland Township, PA
1/08/1996 - 9/16/1996
Leave of absence
Parochial Vicar, Immaculate Conception, Washington, PA
9/16/1996 - 7/14/2000
7/14/2000 - 7/29/2002
Leave of Absence
7/29/2002

Withdrew from ministry

Summary
An internal Diocese of Pittsburgh document labeled "Chronology of Father Zabowski",
stated that in October, 1995 an allegation of sexual abuse was made against Zabowski. An adult
male stated that between 1975 and 1979 he engaged in wrestling with Zabowski and then
Zabowski asked him to remove his clothes. After he removed his clothes, Zabowski fondled
him. This conduct occurred at a church in Pittsburgh. The male further advised that he and
Zabowski took a trip to Canada where they slept in the same bed and Zabowski served him
alcohol. Following the allegations, Zabowski was placed on administrative leave.
In a November, 1995 confidential memorandum, the Diocese noted that Zabowski had
acknowledged the possibility of inappropriate touching and acknowledged sharing his bed with
boys for "companionship."

Zabowski was sent to St. Luke's Institute for an evaluation. In an evaluation dated
November 28, 1995, it was noted that Zabowski admitted to "affectionate hugging" of teenage
boys
In an August, 1996 confidential memorandum, the Diocese observed that Zabowski had
admitted that the allegations against him "could potentially be true" and that he should not be
involved in any relationship with teenage males.

795

 In a letter dated June 26, 2003 Zabowski informed Bishop Wuerl the "therapy helped
him deal with allegations of placing himself with adolescent boys in a sexually inappropriate
manner, gave him the ability to deal with and yes, overcome the sexual ignorance and social
backwardness of his life."

796

 Pittsburgh Priests #2-10
Biographical Information
YEAR OF BIRTH:
ORDINATION:

Various
Various

Employment/Assignment History
1980-2013

Various Assignments within the Diocese of Pittsburgh

Summary
This group of nine unnamed priests contained specific complaints against identified
priests within the Diocese of Pittsburgh. A review of documents surrendered by the Diocese of
Pittsburgh did not contain sufficient information to determine the validity of the complaints in
every case.
The Grand Jury noted that in each case a detailed confidential memorandum was
completed which provided the identities of the complainants and the accused priest. These
confidential memoranda also contained information obtained through internal diocesan
investigations. That information included specific allegations of sexual crimes and identified
locations where the crimes occurred. In some cases it was documented that the priest was
interviewed and confessed child sexual abuse to diocesan personnel.
In contrast to the detailed confidential memoranda, an "allegation report" was also
generated and provided to law enforcement. The "allegation report" was substantially different
from the more detailed diocesan internal memoranda. Rather than containing specific
information, the "allegation report" provided a general timeframe of offenses, the identity of the
"alleged victim" and "accused", a disclosure of "inappropriate touching" regardless of the actual
offenses reported by the complainant, and the geographic area of the crime as identified by
county rather than by specific parish or school.

The Grand Jury noted that the allegations included offenses against children as young as
five years old. Some reports were made as recently as 2017.

797

 798