Three new names have been added to the Diocese of Erie’s Public Disclosure List of persons who it feels have been credibly accused of inappropriate behavior with children.
The names added to the list were Father Raymond Balko, and those of two lay teachers, David Geitner and James Hewitt.
A number of other names on the list have had abuse confirmed or have been moved from “under investigation” to “credible.”
The list can be found at this link. The Diocese’s full statement follows:
9.27.18
Diocese of Erie updates its Public Disclosure ListThe Diocese of Erie has updated its Public Disclosure List, which contains the names of persons who have been “credibly accused of actions that, in the diocese’s judgment, disqualify each person from working with children.”
Two lay persons and one priest have been added to the list, all of whom are deceased. An additional deceased priest is now listed as under investigation. All of the allegations for these names date from the 1950s, 60s and 70s. One additional lay person has been listed under investigation, and another now awaits trial.
In addition, one priest and one lay person have been moved from “under investigation” to the list of credibly accused, and adjustments have been made to several names. Details about the changes and updates follow in the list on page 2. The full list can be found at https://www.eriercd.org/childprotection/disclosure.html.
Anyone who may have knowledge of these situations or who has been affected by similar improprieties is encouraged to report that information through any of the outlets listed at the end of this release.
New names added to the list (deceased)
- Father Raymond Balko, OSB Was able to function (abuse reported after death)
- David Geitner Former lay teacher
- James Hewitt Former lay teacher
New names under investigation:
- Msgr. Joseph Reszkowski — deceased
Modifications made to existing names on the list:
- Charles R. “Rick” Cooper (Clarification of name)
- Father David Dobrowolski (Removed “abuse reported after death.” New information confirms allegations had been submitted but were not on record.)
- Father Herber Gloekler (Removed “abuse reported after death.” New information confirms allegations had been submitted but were not on record)
- Father Charles Schmitt (Moved from under investigation to credible)
- John Tome (Moved from under investigation to credible)
Awaiting Trial
- Robert Visznecki Former parish volunteer
The Diocese of Erie, in collaboration with its independent investigators at the Pittsburgh-based K&L Gates law firm, will continue investigating all allegations brought forth.
Pastoral care and compassion for victims, as well as the protection of children and vulnerable adults, is a top priority of the Diocese of Erie. The diocese encourages anyone who has experienced sexual abuse or misconduct by a member of the clergy or any employee or volunteer of the church, to contact law enforcement.
To report abuse to the independent investigators retained by the Diocese of Erie, email ErieRCD@KLGates.com. Victims or concerned individuals also are welcome to contact the diocese directly to report abuse at 814.451.1543.
In addition, anyone can directly report suspected abuse of minors by anyone to PA ChildLine by calling 800.932.0313. The line is open 24/7, and callers may choose to remain anonymous. Victims also are welcome to contact the diocese directly to report abuse at 814.451.1543.
The Clergy Abuse Hotline established by the Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General can be reached at 888.538.8541. Counseling assistance is available for victims and/or their families through the diocesan victim assistance coordinator, Dr. Robert Nelsen, who can be reached at 814.451.1521.