Fr. Ernest C. Paone

Ordained: 1957
Status: Accused

Died: 05/10/2012
Diocese: Diocese of Pittsburgh PA

First named publicly as accused in 8/14/2018 PA Grand Jury Report. Concerns raised while in seminary. In 1962 St. Monica’s pastor told Bishop Wright that he prevented Paone’s arrest for “molesting young boys…and illegal use of guns with even younger parishioners.” In 1964 D.A. told Bishop Leonard he “halted all investigations [of Paone] involving young boys.” Leave of absence 1966. Moved to L.A. archdiocese, then San Diego diocese. Remained Pittsburgh priest “in good standing,” allowed to minster in CA, and to work as a public school teacher. New report 1994 of abuse of PA boy in 1960s. Sent to St. Luke’s for evaluation. Kept in ministry until faculties removed 5/2002. Another allegation 6/2002 of abuse in 1962-1963 of PA boy. Resigned from ministry 2/2003. A 2/2006 memo showed Paone was hearing confessions for confirmation-age children in San Diego. Died 5/10/2012. Suit announced in 11/2018. On L.A. list updated 12/6/2018. Included on the Pittsburgh diocese’s list of credibly accused. On Las Vegas diocese’s list 4/12/2019.


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