Fr. Anthony J. Cipolla

Ordained: 1972
Status: Settled

Died: 08/30/2016
Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

In 1978 a woman told police Cipolla abused her sons, ages 9 and 12. Charges dropped after harassment of mother and pressure by church. Reassigned. Accused in 1988 of abuse for over four years of a 13- to 17-year-old boy. Diocese said allegations unfounded. Accuser filed report with D.A. Cipolla was suspended and sent to St. Luke’s for evaluation; he refused recommended treatment at St. John Vianney Center. Went to St. Michael’s in NYC as an outpatient. Accuser filed suit in 10/1992; settled in 9/1993. Bishop Wuerl removed Cipolla’s faculties in 9/1990. Cipolla appealed to Rome; Wuerl was ordered to reinstate him. Wuerl appealed; decision reversed in 1995. Cipolla continued to present as a priest against orders. He was laicized 9/19/2002. Continued to act as a priest. Died 8/30/2016 in Warren OH, where he had been living. On the Youngstown diocese’s list 10/29/2018. Included on the Pittsburgh diocese’s list of credibly accused. Two claims settled in 2020 in the low six figures.


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