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Diocese of Scranton ACCUSED PRIESTS

Over recent years, the Diocese of Scranton faced numerous lawsuits concerning child sexual abuse allegations. In 2018, the Office of the Attorney General in Pennsylvania conducted a two-year grand jury investigation into accusations of sexual abuse of minors within six of the eight Catholic dioceses in Pennsylvania. After the investigation, the team published a Grand Jury Report, listing 59 offenders in the Diocese of Scranton and containing detailed information about each claim and each priest listed.

The grand jury also discovered that many diocesan administrators became aware of these accusations and the conduct of members of the Diocese yet still placed the priests in ministry after victims came forward with their complaints. In addition, the Diocese often entered into settlement agreements with the victims, ensuring their silence by including confidentiality addendums forbidding victims from speaking out once they accepted payment. The grand jury also discovered that several diocesan administrators dissuaded victims from reporting to police or conducted their own biased investigations without reporting the criminal allegations to the appropriate authorities.

Since the publication of the Grand Jury Report, many survivors of childhood sexual abuse have filed multiple lawsuits against the Diocese of Scranton. In August 2020, the Diocese faced more than two dozen lawsuits containing child sex abuse allegations against clergy members. In October 2020, just two months later, eight more lawsuits came against the Diocese. Finally, in January 2021, another victim filed a case against the Diocese, listing a former priest also included on the Grand Jury Report as their abuser.

After the Grand Jury Report and its findings of the cover-up by the Diocese, the Pennsylvania-based religious organization spent its time trying to recover from the accusations. In August 2018, the Diocese of Scranton published a list of individuals for whom allegations of sexual abuse of a minor had either been admitted, established, or deemed credible. The list includes priests, members of the religious order, and lay employees who have either served or resided in the Diocese of Scranton.

The Diocese’s decision to publish the information was to promote transparency within the Diocese and encourage sexual abuse victims to come forward and tell their stories. To corroborate the allegations and include an individual accused of child sexual abuse on the list, the Diocese conducts secular legal proceedings and canon law proceedings, accepts self-admissions by the accused, and uses other evidence provided by victims. The Diocese periodically updates this list to include recent discoveries.

In January 2019, the Diocese of Scranton launched an Independent Survivors Compensation Program to compensate survivors of childhood sex abuse. The program operates completely independent of the Diocese and provides relief to all victims, regardless of whether their abuser was a clergy member, from a religious order, or just an employee of the Diocese.

Survivors who had not yet reported the abuse were eligible to participate until July 22, 2019, the deadline to register their claim. Survivors with already reported claims had until September 30, 2019, to submit their claim for compensation to the program.

The program is overseen and reviewed by an Independent Oversight Committee made up of three individuals with relevant healthcare, law enforcement, and social work backgrounds. After the program concluded, victims had submitted 295 claims, with 249 determined eligible for compensation. The program paid out a total of 213 claims at almost $24.5 million provided to claimants.

Pennsylvania recently extended the statute of limitations for child sexual abuse victims to file for civil relief in response to the grand jury investigation. State law currently allows survivors to file civil lawsuits for compensation until their 55th birthday. Previously, the law cut off civil claims after the survivor turned 30.

State lawmakers are working on a look-back window, similar to New York and California, to enable childhood sexual abuse survivors of all ages to file civil lawsuits within a two-year period, regardless of how long ago the abuse happened. Pennsylvania citizens can expect to see the outcome of such legislation efforts in late 2022 or early 2023.

If you suffered child sexual abuse by clergy members in the Diocese of Scranton, you should contact a sexual abuse lawyer to discuss your case and determine your options for compensation. You deserve to have closure and receive justice against your abuser and the institution that allowed your abuse to happen. Healing from childhood sexual abuse is a long-term feat, and you have a right to seek help to aid in your ongoing recovery.

Contact our compassionate and determined lawyers at Herman Law today for a free consultation to learn about your legal rights and begin pursuing justice for the harm you endured.

Ordained: 1992
Status: Charges Dropped
 
Vicar General and moderator of the curia 9/11-10/12. Pastor of St. Peter’s Cathedral in 4/14 when arrested and arraigned for molesting a 13-year-old altar girl in 112/15/98 after a midnight mass at St. Patrick’s. Accuser told police 4/2/14 that Altavilla gave her alcohol in the rectory, then drove her home. She said he he pulled into a parking lot and touched her inappropriately. Police had her call him; he reportedly admitted to giving her alcohol, touching her feet, and moving his hands up her thigh towards her vagina. He admitted to pantyhose, feet, strangulation and chloroform fetish. Diocese removed him and suspended his faculties. After accuser testified at preliminary hearing 5/27/14, magistrate ruled that matter to go forward to trial. Charges dropped 8/1/14 due to SOL. Civil suit filed, settled in 2014.
Ordained: 1955
Status: Accused
 
First named publicly as accused in the 8/14/18 PA Grand Jury Report. A man told the diocese in 9/02 that he was sexually abused by Angelo at age 14 in the early 1960s, when Angelo was assigned to Mater Delorosa in Williamsport. Angelo denied the allegations. Bishop Timlin suggested the man contact Angelo and gave him Angelo’s contact information. Angelo died in 2009.
Ordained: 1983
Status: Accused
 
First named publicly as accused in the 8/14/18 PA Grand Jury Report. (Spelled Balczeniuk.) Told the diocese 3/30/10 that on the previous Friday evening he kissed and hugged the mentally slow young adult son of family friends. He said he came forward because the boy’s father was upset and was going to report the incident to the diocese. The father did so the same day, and said the priest kissed the boy – who was age 18 – on the mouth, embraced him, and rubbed his back under his shirt. Removed from ministry and was to be sent to St. John Vianney Center for treatment. In 6/10 Balczeniuk admitted that in the mid-1970s, when he was a seminarian, he touched the genitals of young boys at Camp St. Andrew, where he was a counselor. Requested laicization 3/11; granted 10/7/11. On diocese’s list 8/19/18 (spelled Balzceniuk). Died 3/23/18 in FL, where he had worked as a bereavement counselor for a Daytona Beach hospice.
Ordained: 1953
Status: Accused
 
First named publicly as accused in the 8/14/18 PA Grand Jury Report. On diocese’s list 8/19/18. Retired 1998. Report to diocese in 5/02 that Bonner molested a boy in 1975. The boy and his family were visiting from Arizona and stayed the night in the rectory. Bonner allegedly got into bed with the sleeping boy who awakened while the priest was fondling him. Bishop Timlin said the diocese was not responsible and that the accuser should contact Bonner. Settlement 1/03 for $25K with confidentiality agreement. In 11/04 a 47-year-old more alleged sex abuse by Bonner at age 14-16. Diocese agreed to pay for 20 counseling sessions for the accuser. Bonner died in 2007.
Ordained: 1980
Status: Accused
 
Suspended 4/1/16 after an 18-year-old male reported sex abuse at age 8 by Boylan. The accuser said the incident occurred at St. Vincent’s Camp in Honesdale and that it included anal penetration. Boylan denied the allegation. Sent to St. John Vianney Center for treatment. State police investigated; closed case in 8/17 because the young man refused to testify. Included in 8/14/18 PA Grand Jury Report. On diocese’s list 8/19/18. Accused in 1993 of sexual harassment of a male Marywood College student. On leave 6/93-1/94, sent to Downington for treatment, then made Administrator of St. Rita’s in Gouldsboro. Per the Diocesan Review Board in 1996, Boylan often requested of Bishop Timlin that he be made a pastor, and that the Board repeatedly objected. Timlin appointed Boylan pastor of St. Rita’s in 1997, after which he was pastor of 7 other parishes.
Ordained: 1970
Status: Settled
 
In 1988 Bishop Timlin learned that Brague was involved in ‘sexual relationship’ with girl starting when she was age 17. Brague denied initially but confessed when the girl got pregnant. Civil suit filed. Settled in 1995. Brague moved to the Venice FL diocese and continued as a priest until his death in 1997. Named in the 8/14/18 PA Grand Jury Report. On diocese’s list 8/19/18.
Ordained: 1954
Status: Sued
 
In 1962 a 12-year-old altar boy at St. Therese’s in Kingston Township alleged that in 1961 Brennan sexually abused him, including sodomy. He said he told a priest at his school, Fr. Michael Rafferty; Brennan was reassigned to a convent, then assigned in 1970 to a parish. Civil suit filed 2005; court ruled in 2006 that the plaintiff waited too long to file suit. In 4/10 a 65-year-old man told the diocese that Brennan molested him at age 15 or 16. Brennan died 7/28/74. Included in 8/14/18 PA Grand Jury Report. On diocese’s list 8/19/18.
Ordained: 1954
Status: Settled
 
First named publicly as accused in the 8/14/18 PA Grand Jury Report. In 1/71 the parents of a 10-year-old boy told the diocese that Bucolo molested their son the previous summer during a two-day trip to the Jersey shore. Bucolo admitted the abuse. Sent to St. John Vianney for treatment and moved to another parish. Removed from active ministry in 7/02. In 9/10 a 64-year-old man alleged abuse by Bucolo as an 8-year-old altar boy. The diocese arranged for a meeting between Bucolo and the man. Bucolo admitted he “did wrong” and asked for forgiveness. Settled for $20K. On diocese’s list 8/19/18.
Ordained: 1950
Status: Sued
 
Monsignor. First named publicly as accused in the 8/14/18 PA Grand Jury Report. Allegation to the diocese in 1994 that Burns sexually abused an altar boy for years in the 1950s at St. John’s in Honesdale. Burns denied the abuse. He retired, per Bishop Timlin’s suggestion. Diocese and Burns paid for counseling for the alleged victim. Burns died in 1999. On diocese’s list 8/19/18. Accused in a lawsuit filed in 11/20 of repeatedly abusing a boy, age 11, in 1972.
Ordained: 1947
Status: Accused
 
Named publicly as accused on the diocese’s list 8/19/18. Died in 1988.
Ordained: 1964
Status: Convicted
 
Many allegations. Report to diocese in 8/68, from Hazleton police, of abuse of two brothers, who were 11- and 12-year-old altar boys at Most Precious Blood. Mentioned “other situations.” Pastor had told Bishop McCormick prior November. Caparelli admitted to acting “too freely” with the boys. Sent to Padua Retreat House, assigned to St. Mary’s in Old Forge. Admitted to State Police in 1974 to molesting children. No charges. Made pastor in Milford 1981. Arrested 1991 for 1985 abuse of boy. Pled guilty. In 12/91 a man alleged abuse at St. Mary’s at age 11 or 12, along with other boys. Suit filed 12/91 alleging rape of boy 9/85-6/86 at St. Vincent De Paul. Sentenced 7/92 to 2 1/2 to 5 years prison. Another charge for abuse of a boy added time to his sentence in 1993. Had AIDS. Died in prison 12/24/94. Two suits settled 1996. A 2005 suit settled 1/07. New suit in 7/20 claims abuse of a boy, ages 10-13, starting around 1974.
Ordained: 1964
Status: Accused
 
Named publicly as accused by the diocese on its list 8/19/18. Died in 1994.
Ordained: 1998
Status: Accused
 
Removed in 2002 from Bishop Hafey High School after victim in the Society of St. John case (see Urrutigoity and Ensey) alleged Clay had molested him after a dinner in Monroe County. Clay denied allegation. Civil authorities investigated but never charged him. In 7/04 he was working in church in Arlington TX. One Bishop said he was cleared to work but Bishop Martino said he was still suspended pending investigation. In 1/12, Bishop Vann of Ft Worth said he was barred from all church property and had no faculties in TX. Included in the 8/14/18 PA Grand Jury Report. On diocese’s list 8/19/18.
Ordained: 1953
Status: Accused
 
Named publicly as credibly accused by the diocese on its list in 10/20. Assignments included St. Michael’s School in Hoban Heights and parishes in Hazleton, Ashley, Great Bend, Wilkes-Barre, Nicholson. Retired in 1992. Died 2/4/08.
Ordained: 1953
Status: Accused
 
Died 3/12/79, age 51. First named publicly as accused in the 8/14/18 PA Grand Jury Report. On diocese’s 8/19/18 list. in 4/08 a 49-year-old woman told the diocese that Conmy sexually assaulted her when she was age 10. She said he drove her to a wooded area where he grabbed her, put his hand over her mouth and his knee in her stomach, and that she begged him not to kill her. She said he disrobed her, touched her, made her touch him, then performed oral sex on her. The diocese first knew of concerns about Conmy in 1955. In a letter Msgr Dennis Kane sent to Bishop Hannan, Kane suggested Conmy be moved to a “remote parish” due to the danger of a “friendship which is not good for him and which is the occasion of gossip.” Kane wrote that this “will mean much for his protection.” On diocese’s list 8/19/18.
Ordained: 1958
Status: Accused
 
Named publicly as credibly accused by the diocese on its list in 10/20. Assigned to parishes in Tunkhannock, Shohola, West Hazleton, Weston, Luzerne, Jackson. Died 8/11/96.
Ordained: 1967
Status: Accused
 
Monsignor. In 3/06 the diocese received a report that Crynes had sexually abused a girl 1974-77, beginning when she was age 17. Another woman soon came forward, alleging sex abuse by Crynes as a teen. He admitted to his behavior, saying he “always saw his physical behavior with women as gestures of loving paternal affection.” Removed from active ministry 5/06. By 6/06 four other women had reported abuse as teens by Crynes. One of them said that in 2002 she told diocesan Vicar for Priests, Fr. Kopacz, about her abuse, but he did nothing. Crynes lived at Villa St Joseph in Dunmore per diocesan website 9/1/09. Ordered by Vatican to live a life of prayer and penance. Another report in 1/16 of abuse 1972-73 of a girl, age 16-17. Named in the 8/14/18 PA Grand Jury Report. Found in 9/18 to be a member of a private golf club. On diocese’s list 8/19/18 (as Peter G. Crynes).
Ordained: 1960
Status: Sued
 
Retired priest of the diocese when accused in a lawsuit filed in 11/20 of sexually abusing a boy, age 7, in 1971.
Ordained: 1959
Status: Accused
 
First named publicly as accused in the 8/14/18 PA Grand Jury Report. The diocese received a report in 1994 from a woman who said Deviney was sexually inappropriate with her when she was a teen. She said that later, after losing a baby and husband, Deviney violated her. The woman said she contacted Bishop Timlin in 2001 to ask if Deviney had ever received treatment, and that the bishop responded that Deviney hadn’t and that he hoped she could put it all behind her. She pressed again in 10/02; Timlin said Deviney agreed to treatment. The diocese indicated that the allegations were unsubstantiated. On diocese’s list 8/19/18. Permanently removed from ministry.
Ordained: 1955
Status: Accused
 
First named publicly as accused in the 8/14/18 PA Grand Jury Report. Faculties withdrawn 2/59 after complaints of his involvement with a high school girl and females in the town. Sent to a hospice, then assigned to a parish 10/59. Sent to the hospice again in 12/60. Faculties revoked 6/64. Bishop Hannon responded to inquiries from the Archdiocese of New York and the Diocese of Burlington that Dorsey was an “incorrigible recidivist.” Withdrew from the diocese 1975. Died 2007.On diocese’s list 8/19/18.
Ordained: 1932
Status: Accused
 
First named publicly as accused in the 8/14/18 PA Grand Jury Report. Died 1991. A woman told the diocese in 11/05 that Dzurko sexually abused her when she was age 11 in 1957. The diocese deemed the allegation credible and paid for the woman to receive art therapy. On diocese’s list 8/19/18.
Ordained: 1995
Status: Accused
 
In 12/01 it was revealed that Ensey and Fr. Carlos Urrutigoity had been accused of sexual misconduct with a 16-year-old male student. They were suspended 1/02. The student sued in 3/03; suit was settled for $455K in 2005. Ensey living in Paraguay as of 3/06. As of 12/11, Diocese reported that his faculties were removed in 2005. Ensey continued to function as a priest on some occasions, particularly for fundraising. Reportedly defrocked in 2014. Last known to be living in Redding, CA. Included in 8/14/18 PA Grand Jury Report. On Scranton diocese’s list 8/19/18.
Ordained: 1946
Status: Accused
 
First named publicly as accused in the 8/14/18 PA Grand Jury Report. Died 1990. Sent to live at St. Michael’s School for Boys in Hoban Heights in 1/54 after suffering an aneurism. Bishop Hannan moved Farry in 5/60 due to the priest’s “intolerable” relations with the guests there. Farry was transferred to Cure of Ars Hospice. He later assisted at St. Mary’s in Old Forge, was chaplain at St. Mary’s Vialla in Elmhurst, then resided at St. Boniface in Willaimsport 11/76-6/90. He died in 1990. In 2006 a man reported to the diocese that when he was a resident as a child of St. Michael’s 1953-54, he was sexually abused by a priest, later identified as Farry. The diocese agreed to take care of the man’s counseling co-payments. On diocese’s list 8/19/18 (as James E.).
Ordained: 1973
Status: Accused
 
First named publicly as accused in the 8/14/18 PA Grand Jury Report. Per the report, Fedor sought counseling for himself 1981-86 due to his desire for contact with young girls. In 1986-87 he underwent psychological evaluation and treatment. He went on Indefinite Leave of Absence 7/91 and was laicized 5/3/94. In 2012 a woman told the diocese that Fedor sexually abused her over a two-year period, beginning in 1978 when she was age 10. On diocese’s list 8/19/18. On Richmond diocese’s list 2/13/19.
Ordained: 1970
Status: Accused
 
First named publicly as accused in the 8/14/18 PA Grand Jury Report. Report to diocese 12/74 from a woman that Ferraldo molested aher16-year-old son and other altar boys and a hospital orderly. Timlin denied the accusations. Evaluated in 1985 after accusation of inappropriate behavior with a hospital patient. In 2/86 accused of sexual advances toward a 23-year-old male patient. He admitted to the behavior, and said he didn’t know “what comes over him.” Was told to go for evaluation and treatment. Granted Indefinite Leave of Absence 11/30/88. Died in 1997. In 2002 the diocese received a report from the Archdiocese of New York that a man alleged sexual abuse by Ferraldo when he was age 16 or 17 in 1982-83. On diocese’s list 8/19/18.
Ordained: 1990
Status: Convicted
 
Ferrara, a member of the Melkite Greek-Catholic Eparchy of Newton. With permission from Bishop Timlin, in 2001 established the Society of the Annunciation of Our Lord retreat within the diocese. Arrested 3/11 after a14-year-old boy alleged that Ferrara had sexually abused him at the Our Lady of Solitude retreat house in Little Meadows. The boy said Ferrara had him massage Ferrara’s private parts with his feet on several occasions. Removed without privileges 4/11 and criminally charged. Pled no contest. Sentenced 10/11 to 6 monts to 2 years prison and a fine. Included in teh 8/14/18 PA Grand Jury Report. On Scranton diocese’s list 8/19/18.
Ordained: 1966
Status: Accused
 
Named publicly as credibly accused by the diocese on its list in 10/20. Assigned to parishes in Lake Silkworth, Nanticoke, Scranton, Dickson City, Plains. Died 4/29/08.
Ordained: 1966
Status: Accused
 
First named publicly as accused in the 8/14/18 PA Grand Jury Report. In 9/80 a parishioner told Bishop McCormick that Flanagan would not let anyone into the rectory, that he was sleeping with boys, and that parishioners were disgusted. Moved in 9/80 from St. Thomas in Elkland to St. Francis in Mildred. Sick Leave 4/90-6/90. Treated at St. Vincent’s in Harrison NY. Flanagan reportedly was sent to treatment after accusations he had fondled two boys at a summer camp two years prior. He did not deny the accusations. Removed from active ministry 7/02. In 6/05 a man reported to the diocese that Flanagan sodomized him in St. Mary’s rectory when he was age 11 in 1973. Flanagan denied wrongdoing. On diocese’s list 8/19/18.
Ordained: 1953
Status: Accused
 
First named publicly as accused in the 8/14/18 PA Grand Jury Report. Diocese received reports in 1964, 1965 and 1966 that Flannery was having affairs with women, and had gotten a young girl pregnant. Died 2005. Per the Grand Jury, Flannery was on a list in 5/16 sent to each D.A. office within the diocese of names of all priests with complaints against them of sex abuse of minors. On diocese’s list 8/19/18.
Ordained: 1898
Status: Accused
 
First named publicly as accused in the 8/14/18 PA Grand Jury Report. Died 1950. Report to the diocese in 4/06 that Fleming sexually abused a 6-year-old girl in 1940. His accuser said she was in heart failure, wanted “all of her ducks in a row,” including being counted as a victim of a priest in the diocese. She said this “deepest secret” kept coming back to “trouble her spirits and cause her emotional distress.” Fleming’s name was included on a list the diocese sent to each D.A.’s office in within the diocese in 5/16 of all priests with allegations of child sex abuse against them. On diocese’s list 8/19/18.
Ordained: 1945
Status: Settled
 
Named publicly as accused in 5/21 by Attorney Mitchell Garabedian. Free was the subject of a claim that was settled in 2021 in the low five figures. Allegedly sexually abused a boy, ages 13-14, multiple times during 1970-71, while assigned to St. Ann’s Passionist Monastery in Scranton. Died in 11/23/83. Brother of accused Passionist Rev. Daniel Free.
Ordained: 1946
Status: Accused
 
Named publicly as accused by the diocese on its list 8/19/18. Died in 2001.
Ordained: 1958
Status: Settled
 
Allegations first made public by diocese in 9/08. Named in 8/14/18 PA Grand Jury Report. Accused 1/95 of sex abuse of a boy, age 14, in 1975. He admitted the abuse and was sent to St. John Vianney in Downington for eval and treatment. Victim sued. Settled for $30K. Placed 8/95 in residence and under supervision at a parish rectory. In 1997 a woman complained that Gibson was grooming her son. GIbson was sent again to Downington. Placed 2/1/98 at St. John Vianney Renewal Center in Dittmer, MO. Faculties removed. Allegation same month of sex abuse of his minor nephew. Three more men came forward with allegations, in 4/02, 10/05 and 7/07. One said the abuse occurred 1973 through 1974. Gibson died in 2012. On diocese’s list 8/19/18.
Ordained: 1959
Status: Accused
 
First named publicly as accused in the 8/14/18 PA Grand Jury Report. Monsignor. Died 1991. Allegation to diocese 1/31/06 that a 40-year-old man undergoing counseling alleged sex abuse by Gilgallon on 12/31/86. Other priests active during that time confirmed to the diocese that the allegation was true and occurred in the rectory. Gilgallon’s name was included on the diocese’s 5/16 list sent to D.A.’s offices of all priests accused of child sex abuse.
Ordained: 1954
Status: Accused
 
Named publicly as credibly accused by the Scranton diocese in 10/19. Assigned to Scranton Prep in the 1940s and ’50s. Died 6/17/05, age 80. Added to the Richmond diocese’s list 10/4/19.
Ordained: 1927
Status: Accused
 
First named publicly in the 8/14/18 PA Grand Jury Report. Died 1988. Report to diocese in 9/09 by a 42-year-old man that Griffin sexually abused him in 1967, when he was age 9. The man said the abuse occurred when Griffin would take him and other boys on trips to Seneca Lake, NY and to a cottage at Lake Henry in the Poconos.On diocese’s list 8/19/18.
Ordained: 1931
Status: Accused
 
First named publicly as accused in the 8/14/18 PA Grand Jury Report. In 6/16 a man testified that when he was in high school in 1961, Hammond masturbated in front of him and tried to fondle him in the rectory of St. Leo’s in Ashley. He said other boys saw Hammond masturbating that night, too. The man said, in part, that he drove to the police station and that the officer on duty, who was a St. Leo’s parishioner, told him he didn’t want to hear it and to leave. He said he told his girlfriend, then his mother, who contacted the diocese, and that the diocese told her it would be taken care of. Hammond was kept in ministry and made Monsignor in 1968. He died in 1985. Hammond’s diocesan file had no record of the allegation, and the Ashley police had no record of the report. The GJ was able to corroborate the man’s story via another person who was there that night and from the man’s his wife, who was his girlfriend in 1961. On diocese’s list 8/19/18.
Ordained: 1957
Status: Sued
 
A woman filed suit against the diocese in 2002 alleging that a retired ‘Fr. Hazzouri’ touched her in an inappropriate sexual fashion in 1996-97 when she was 14 and working as a dining room/kitchen server at Villa St Joseph. Suit dismissed on summary judgment in 2005.
Ordained: 1936
Status: Accused
 
Named publicly as accused on the diocese’s list 8/19/18. Died in 1991.
Ordained: 1959
Status: Accused
 
Multiple complaints. First named publicly as accused in the 8/14/18 PA Grand Jury Report. Resigned in 10/93. Removed from ministry 7/3/02. In 1967 there was a report to a Fr. Post that Homer had a 14-year-old girl in his locked office when she was supposed to be in class, asked her inappropriate sexual questions and made inappropriate comments. A second similar allegation involving a 14-year-old girl followed; he was said to have unbuttoned this girl’s blouse and french kissed her. Transferred to another parish. In 1/88 a woman told the diocese that Homer molested her in 1964 when she was age 14. More complaints surfaced, including of an incident with a nun. Sent twice for evaluation and treatment. Died in 2015. On diocese’s list 8/19/18.
Ordained: 1964
Status: Accused
 
First named publicly as accused in the 8/14/18 PA Grand Jury Report. Bishop McCormick was told in 6/71 by a priest that Houston was seen multiple times going into a motel room late at night with a minor female, and that they were seen in public together regularly. In 5/02 the victim contacted Bishop Timlin, saying Houston took advantage of her when she was ages 14-17. She did not want law enforcement involved. Houston wrote her a letter of apology. Faculties removed 6/02. Laicized 6/04. On diocese’s list 8/19/18.
Ordained: 1948
Status: Accused
 
Accused in a lawsuit that settled in 2020 of abuse of a boy, ages 6-7, in 1979-80, while assigned to Church of the Epiphany in Sayre, PA. The abuse allegedly took place at the parish school. The suit settled in the low six figures. Jordan died in 9/90.
Ordained: 1944
Status: Accused
 
Named publicly as accused on the diocese’s list 8/19/18. Died in 1985.
Ordained: 1966
Status: Settled
 
Monsignor. Retired in 2006. Among assignments were Boys Town in NE, Project Hope, Camp St. Andrew (Director), and St. Michael’s School in Falls Township (Director in the 1970s). Taught for 25 years in diocesan schools. Named publicly by the diocese in 10/20 as accused, with seven allegations against him, four of them deemed credible. All were from men who had been committed as boy’s to St. Michael’s. Added to the diocese’s list. Kelly denied the allegations. Placed on leave when the allegations were received via the diocese’s Independent Survivors Compensation Program. Settlement in the mid-five figures in 2020 of a claim of abuse of a boy, age 13, in 1978 at St. Michael’s.
Ordained: 1974
Status: Settled
 
First named publicly as accused in the 8/14/18 PA Grand Jury Report. Complaint to diocese 11/86 from a man alleging Kulig sexually abused his son beginning when the boy was age 12 and continuing until 1985. Kulig admitted to a “relationship” with the boy. In treatment 2/87-8/87, while pastor of St. Mary of the Lake in Lake Winola. Resigned from St. Mary’s 8/87, assigned to a convent chaplaincy. Family of victim received $10K settlement. Kulig’s faculties removed 7/02. On diocese’s list 8/19/18.
Ordained: 1989
Status: Convicted
 
In 8/14/18 PA Grand Jury Report (name misspelled “Libertore.”) Bishop Timlin informed 11/96 by of close relationship Liberatore had with a young adult male, under drinking age. Concern to Timlin 2/97 of behavior with a young seminarian. No action. Letter in 12/02 to Timlin from American College in Louvain, Belgium that Liberatore was seen drunk, taking a male in his teens or early 20s into his bedroom. Sent for eval 1/03. Complaints 1/04 he had abused two young men. Arrested 7/04 on charges in PA of sex abuse of and giving alcohol to an altar boy 5/99-5/04. Charged by NYC police with sex assault of same minor. Pled guilty to both. Sentenced in 2005 to 10 years’ probation. Laicized 7/06. Arrested 11/06 for parole violation. Per 2004 federal civil suit, bishop was informed. Settled for $3M. On sex offender registry in PA 6/11. On diocese’s list 8/19/18.
Ordained: 1939
Status: Accused
 
First named publicly as accused in the 8/14/18 PA Grand Jury Report. Madaj’s file contained two anonymous letters to Fr. McHugh in 12/52 alleging Madaj was having an affair with his housekeeper. In 3/90 the parents of a male 19-year-old told the diocese that Madaj had sexually abused their son at age 9 or 10. Madaj denied the allegation. Died 1998. On diocese’s list 8/19/18.
Ordained: 1962
Status: Accused
 
Named publicly as accused by the Diocese of Scranton on its list 8/19/18. Born in Romania, ordained in Europe. Worked in Scranton diocese 1975-77. Died in 1998. On Scranton diocese’s list 8/19/18. On Diocese of Buffalo’s list 11/5/18. Left the Buffalo diocese in 1972. Case sent to Vatican.
Ordained: 1942
Status: Accused
 
In a 6/10 newspaper ad, a man asked people to call if they wanted to talk about McAuliffe. When contacted by diocese, he said McAuliffe abused him at Holy Savior in Wilkes-Barre sometime 9/54 – 4/63. Diocese contacted police and notified parishes where McAuliffe was assigned. Several people came forward. One said he reported his abuse, including sodomy, in 1963. Bishop Hannon sent the priest for treatment in KY and did not allow McAuliffe to return to ministry. Hannon died in 1965; McAuliffe found his way back to ministry. Pastor Emeritus of St. David’s when he died 8/7/89. Included in 8/14/18 PA Grand Jury Report. On Scranton diocese’s list 8/19/18. Accused of abuse of two boys 1966-69, age range 11-16. Both cases settled in 2020 in the mid-five figured.
Ordained: 1945
Status: Accused
 
Named publicly as credibly accused by the diocese on its list in 10/20. Assigned to parishes in Sugar Notch, Wilkes-Barre, Dunmore, Fairmount Springs, Bear Creek, Carverton, White Haven, Exeter, Carbondale, Kingston, Pittston. Died 4/16/12.
Ordained: 1959
Status: Sued
 
Maryland Province. Allegations first public in 11/10. Taught at Scranton Prep 1961-83 and 1985-86. Held various positions at U. of Scranton 2002-06. Removed 2006 after earlier allegation became known; was living in Jesuit community in a monitored setting. Allegation in 2008 that he touched a 10-year-old girl in a sexual way in 1963 in Scranton. Deemed credible. McLaughlin admitted ‘there may be other victims of similar sexual misconduct’ in the Scranton diocese. Included in 8/14/18 PA Grand Jury Report. Added to Baltimore list 9/18. On Scranton diocese’s list 8/19/18. On MD Province’s list 12/17/18. Accused in a lawsuit filed in 11/20 of raping a 7-year-old girl in 1972, while he was assigned to St. Ignatius in Kingston.
Ordained: 1968
Status: Accused
 
First named publicly as accused in the 8/14/18 PA Grand Jury Report. Accused in 1970 of disrobing and fondling at least four boys. Sent for eval and treatment, returned to ministry. Made pastor in Jackson 12/81, then in Wilkes-Barre 9/84 followed by Shavertown in 9/87. Removed and sent for treatment in 1990 after caught by a woman disrobing her 17-year-old son in the rectory parlor. Assigned to nursing home chaplaincies until removed from ministry 7/02. At least three more complaints 2003, 2007 and 2008. On diocese’s list 8/19/18.
Ordained: 1972
Status: Accused
 
Pastor of Our Lady of Mount Carmel in Carbondale 1996-2012. Removed 4/12 after a report to diocese of past abuse of a minor youth. Police investigated. Accuser said he would sleep over at the rectory with Motsay and that Motsay would massage him, rub his inner thighs and fondle him. State police found four more victims. Motsay admitted to the allegations. No prosecutions due to the statute of limitations. Permanently removed from ministry 9/15. Sentenced to life of prayer and penance. On diocese’s list 8/19/18.
Ordained: 1929
Status: Accused
 
First named publicly as accused in the 8/14/18 PA Grand Jury Report. Died 1957. In 11/03 a 75-year-old man reported to the diocese that when he was a 15-year-old altar boy, Nolan groped him. The man stated that he felt he could now put the matter behind him. On diocese’s list 8/19/18.
Ordained: 1918
Status: Accused
 
Named publicly as accused on the diocese’s list 8/19/18. Died in 1978.
Ordained: 1959
Status: Accused
 
The diocese announced in 10/10 that Oldfield had been credibly accused of child sexual abuse. Died in 8/22/19, age 85.
Ordained: 1988
Status: Convicted
 
Assigned to 16 parishes over 25 years. Worked at Lourdesmont, a facility for troubled teen boys and girls in 1983, prior to ordination. After return from 8-month leave of absence – his 4th since ordination – in 7/13, assigned as assistant pastor to Prince of Peace parish in Old Forge. Found in car 9/19/13 on local college campus having sex with 15-year-old boy he met on internet. Arrested. Said boy told him he was 18. Released on bail 9/24. Bishop removed his faculties and placed him on leave. Pled guilty 1/22/14. Sentenced 6/3/14 to 8-23 months in jail. Included in 8/14/18 PA Grand Jury Report. Lawsuit filed 11/18 alleging Paulish abused a teen boy while pastor of St. Mary’s in Old Forge 10/06-5/07. On diocese’s list 8/19/18.
Ordained: 1962
Status: Accused
 
First named publicly as accused in the 8/14/18 PA Grand Jury Report. Ordered to psychiatric treatment by Bishop McCormick in 10/68, but did not comply. Left the diocese without permission. Diocese of Jefferson City contacted the Scranton diocese “years later” to say that Pender was ministering there. Assigned to parishes in Crocker MO in the 1970s and 1980s. Died 2009. Included on list from diocese to D.A. in 5/16 of priests against whom there were accusation of child sex abuse. Pender’s name was included with reference to an allegation in 2014 by a “John Doe.” On Jefferson City diocese’s list 11/8/18.
Ordained: Unknown
Status: Accused
 
Sister of the Religious Teachers Filippini (M.P.F.), professed vows in 1953.Taught in PA, NJ, NY, CT and MD. Retired 2012. Died 10/22/14. Added to the Scranton diocese’s list in 12/18.
Ordained: 1989
Status: Accused
 
Placed on leave 7/16/18 after an allegation that he had sexually abused a minor in 1985 in Monroe County PA, prior to ordination. Reported to Scranton diocese, who reported to the D.A. and the Wilmington-Philadelphia Province of Oblates of Saint Francis de Sales. Plaushin denied the allegation. Retired Army chaplain, at Our Mother of Consolation in Chestnut Hill PA parish since 2013. Scout chaplain. Reportedly living in Lithuania.
Ordained: 1933
Status: Accused
 
Named publicly by the diocese when added to its list in 12/18. Assigned to parishes in Rock Lake, Pittston, Montdale, Blakely, Elmhurst and Swoyersville. Died in 1989.
Ordained: 1971
Status: Sued
 
Named publicly as accused when added to the diocese’s list in 12/18. Parish priest, taught at Bishop O’Hara High School in Dunmore, chaplain for Forest Lakes Council Boy Scouts. Died in 1999. Multiple allegations of abuse of boys. Separate lawsuits filed by four men in 8/19, claiming abuse by Pulicare over seven years when they were ages 7-14.
Ordained: 1926
Status: Accused
 
Named publicly as credibly accused by the Diocese of Scranton on its list in 10/20. Died in 9/26/73.
Ordained: 1985
Status: Accused
 
First named publicly as accused in the 8/14/18 PA Grand Jury Report. Allegation 11/95 that Rossetti sexually abused a 13-year-old boy, who was in eighth grade. Police report made, Rossetti suspended and sent for psych eval and treatment. The victim and family agreed to end the criminal investigation 11/21/95. In 11/97 Bishop Timlin asked the Archbishop of New York to allow Rossetti to minister there; permission granted. Rossetti released back to the Diocese of Scranton from New York in 2002. Laicized 2007. Died 4/24/18. Included on the diocese’s list 8/19/18 (name spelled Rosetti.)
Ordained: 1958
Status: Accused
 
Named publicly as accused by the diocese on its list 8/19/18. Died in 1997.
Ordained: 1967
Status: Settled
 
Multiple alleged victims. Removed in 2004 after admitting to sexual abuse of a minor more than 20 years prior. A few days later another man came forward alleging abuse as a boy by Shoback. In 2006 a man told the diocese that Shoback abused him at age 13. This person received funds deducted from Shoback’s pension every month for 4 years as reimbursement for lost wages. No criminal charges due to SOL. More complaints in 2007 and 2009. Laicization announced 7/17/09. (Shoback’s brother Thomas was accused of abuse 11/11, arrested 6/12.) Included in the 8/14/18 PA Grand Jury Report. Sued for alleged abuse in 1975 of an altar boy, age 12, on a trip to Hawley, PA; settled in 1/20 in the high five figures
Ordained: 1977
Status: Convicted
 
Diocese notified 11/11 of allegations of sexual misconduct with a boy 1991-97, when pastor of St Mary and St Andrew in Blossburg. Suspended. Arrested 6/14/12, charged with involuntary deviate sexual intercourse, indecent assault, endangering the welfare of children, and corruption of minors, for repeated sexual assault of the altar boy. Convicted 4/13, sentenced to 5-10 years in state prison. Removed from ministry 11/14. Included in 8/14/18 PA Grand Jury Report. It showed there was a report 5/06 to diocese of sex assault of an 11-year-old altar boy. Report to D.A. Investigated. Shoback denied abuse. Alleged victim named another boy he said Shoback abused; that person denied it to investigators. Sent for eval. In 11/11 the man who first denied abuse by Shoback said the priest actually had abused him when he was age 11. This led to Shoback’s arrest and conviction. On diocese’s list 8/19/18.
Ordained: 1963
Status: Accused
 
Relieved of ministerial duties 4/02 after diocese announced he had admitted to ‘some improper conduct’ that occurred over 30 years prior. Bishop Timlin said Skotek had come under scrutiny several years before when a different misconduct complaint was made. Named in 8/14/18 PA Grand Jury Report, which showed Skotek abused a girl 1980-1985 when he was pastor of St. Casimir’s in Freeland. She became pregnant and he arranged for an abortion. Resigned 1986. Sent to MD for treatment, then reassigned to a Wilkes-Barre parish in 1/87. On diocese’s list 8/19/18.
Ordained: 1979 Status: Accused
Named publicly as accused by the diocese on its list 8/19/18. Died in 2012.
Ordained: 1974
Status: Accused
 
Named publicly as accused by the diocese on its list 8/19/18. Died in 1988.
Ordained: 1971
Status: Accused
 
First named publicly as accused in the 8/14/18 PA Grand Jury Report. In 2/97 a man told the diocese that when he was age 13 in 1976, Tamalis sexually abused him, after plying him with alcohol. Tamalis was sent for an evaluation and admitted to probably abusing nine boys and young men; evaluators said there were likely far more. More victims later came forward. No prosecutions due to the statute of limitations. Laicized 12/07. On diocese’s list 8/19/18.
Ordained: 2002
Status: Convicted
 
Aka Fr. Gabriel. Member of the Franciscan Friars of the Renewal in Yonkers NY after first vows in 1996. Left there 1998. With Bishop Timlin’s permission, established the Servants Minor of St. Francis community in Scranton in 2001. Ordained 2002. Admitted in 2005 to downloading child porn while working at St. Ann’s in Tobyhanna PA in 01/05. Arrested in West Orange NJ while staying at St. Anthony of Padua. Pled guilty to one charge of criminal use of a communication facility; sentenced to two years probation. Faculties removed. Found celebrating mass/holding services in 2010 and in his newly-formed traditionalist church in 2011. The church is not recognized by the Vatican. Laicization announced 3/4/15. Still active 11/18 as “priest” of church he formed, St. Michael the Archangel in Lower Windsor Township. In PA Grand Jury Report 8/14/18 (misspelled “Thetherow”). On Scranton diocese’s list 8/19/18.
Ordained: 1992
Status: Convicted
 
Arrested 10/09 on 16 counts of possession of child pornography. Investigation began 12/08 when diocese notified the DA’s office of an anonymous letter re his improper use of computer. In 2006, he took 1-year leave of absence. Sent to treatment. Pled guilty 8/10 to 17 counts of child porn possession and downloading same. Sentenced 11/10 to 6 to 72 months in state prison, fined, and ordered to register as sex offender. Released 6/12 on parole; worked for nonprofit; on leave without faculties. Laicized 1/24/14. In 8/14/18 PA Grand Jury Report. On diocese’s list 8/19/18.
Ordained: 1914
Status: Accused
 
Named publicly as accused on the diocese’s list 8/19/18. Died in 1967.
Ordained: 1941
Status: Accused
 
Named publicly as accused by the diocese on its list 8/19/18. Died in 1986.
Ordained: Unknown
Status: Accused
 
From India, Oblates of St. Joseph (O.S.J.) Named publicly as accused on the Scranton diocese’s list 8/19/18.
Ordained: 1934
Status: Accused
 
Accused of fondling several boys in mid-1960s at Sacred Heart school and church in Luzerne. Was editor of Catholic Light, the diocesan newspaper. One accuser said believed the diocese knew about Weniger’s behavior at the time. Msgr. Weniger died 7/11/72. Bishop Timlin admitted in 2002 that several allegations had been received after Weniger’s death. Included in 8/14/18 PA Grand Jury Report. Included on the diocese’s list 8/19/18.
Ordained: 1952
Status: Accused
 
Named publicly as accused on the diocese’s list 8/19/18. Died in 1988.
Ordained: 1980
Status: Convicted
 
Retired priest from NY. Admitted allowing children to sleep with him while he was nude. Pleaded guilty in 2008 to ‘involuntary deviate sexual intercourse with a child under the age of 13’ for abuse of an 8-year-old boy 2006-2007. Sentenced to 9-18 years in prison.

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