Fr. David Poulson

Ordained: 1979
Status: Convicted

Diocese: Diocese of Erie PA

Pastor of St. Anthony of Padua in Cambridge Springs. Bradford Central Christian High teacher. Removed from ministry in 2/2018 after allegations that he sexually abused minors. Arrested 5/8/2018, charged with the abuse of two boys, one ages 8-18. Abuse occurred 2002-2010 in rectories and a remote cabin. One said Paulson made him confess to to him after the abuse. Per the Grand Jury report 5/8/2018, in 2010 Poulson admitted to Bishop Trautman he was sexually aroused by a boy, had sent texts about sex to boys and spent time alone with them. Trautman “admonished” Poulson, told him to “cease and desist,” and kept him in ministry. In a 5/14/2018 statement, Trautman denied covering-up. Another man said Poulson, his high school English teacher, abused him 1979-1982. Pleaded guilty 10/17/2018. Sentenced 1/11/2019 to 2-14 years in prison. Laicized 3/2019. Settlement for $2M in 3/2019 with man alleging abuse as a child 2002-2010.

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