In motions filed in Court, Mr. Smith and Mr. Zgoznik have resorted to false statements, half truths and innuendo against those associated with the Diocese, including Bishop Emeritus of the Diocese, The Most Rev. Anthony M. Pilla and Father John Wright in an apparent attempt by the defendants to explain their conduct. Neither Bishop Pilla nor Fr. Wright participated in, approved, or was aware of Mr. Smith’s and Mr. Zgoznik’s illegal conduct.

Bishop Pilla stated, “During my tenure as Bishop of Cleveland, Joseph H. Smith served as Chief Legal Counsel and Diocesan Finance Director and I placed my full trust in him. My judgments in these matters were based on Mr. Smith’s advice and counsel. I and the Diocese of Cleveland cooperated fully with the federal authorities who investigated Mr. Smith’s and Mr. Zgoznik’s conduct, as well as their explanations and other allegations made by them. The diocesan records and all employees were open and available to federal investigators. The result of that investigation was the charges against Mr. Smith and Mr. Zgoznik only, and to my knowledge no other improprieties were found.”