Fr. Joseph M. Pease

Ordained: 1961
Status: Accused

Diocese: Diocese of Harrisburg PA

Accused in 1995 of the sexual abuse of a minor in about 1972. Kept in ministry. Removed in 12/02 due to a credible accusation and his admission of having sexually abused an adolescent 30 years prior. Two other men then came forward to allege abuse by Pease. The Vatican had not yet ruled on his case as of 2007. Bishop Gainer asked Vatican to impose a ‘life of prayer and penance.’ Pease’s name included on the diocese’s list released 8/1/18. Included in the 8/14/18 PA Grand Jury Report. Abused throughout his career, at 10 parishes. Gainer decided to request laicization for Pease in light of the GJ report.


Return to main database page. See abbreviations and posting policy. Send corrections.

Our Database of Publicly Accused does not state or imply that individuals facing allegations are guilty of a crime or liable for civil claims. The reports contained in the database are merely allegations. The U.S. legal system presumes that a person accused of or charged with a crime is innocent until proven guilty. Similarly, individuals who may be defendants in civil actions are presumed not to be liable for such claims unless a plaintiff proves otherwise. Admissions of guilt or liability are not typically a part of civil or private settlements. For more information, see our posting policy.