PENNSYLVANIA
Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
April 25, 2014 5:09 PM
By Rich Lord / Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
The Rev. David F. Dzermejko, whose priestly activities were suspended following the emergence of abuse allegations in 2009, was sentenced today to three years in prison for possession of child pornography.
The sentence by U.S. District Judge Nora Barry Fischer — which was slightly below the prison terms recommended by federal guidelines — came after a two-hour hearing featuring the emotional testimony of an alleged victim’s brother, and a denial by Dzermejko of any personal abuse of children.
“Your honor, I stand before you with deep remorse and a sincere regret for any crime I have committed and I throw myself at the mercy of this court,” Dzermejko said, shaking visibly.
After his release from prison, Dzermejko faces 12 years of probation. He also forfeited his laptop, personal computer, cell phone and a storage device.
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