Fr. Richard F. Zula
Report to diocese in 9/1987 of violent sexual activity in the rectory by Zula with a minor, and with three other lay men. Sent to Institute of Living in CT. Placed on permanent leave. Two brothers alleging abuse filed suit, then contacted police in 9/1988. One said he was first abused by Zula in 1984 when under age 16. Zula was arrested in 11/1988. Pled guilty to two counts involving the two brothers; sentenced in 1990 to 2-5 years in prison. Sentence to run concurrently with one in another county imposed for 1-5 years. Diocese settled with the brothers with a confidentiality agreement. Revs. Francis Pucci and Robert Wolk were accused of abusing the same boys. More reports to diocese of abuse of boys by Zula, involving sadomasochism. Found volunteering at a parish in 2007. Died 9/29/17. Included in 8/14/18 PA Grand Jury Report. Suit filed 10/18 against Bishop Zubik and Cardinal Wuerl. Zula’s name included on the diocese’s list of credibly accused.
- United Press International 10.14.88
- Associated Press 11.11.88
- Associated Press 11.14.88
- United Press International 05.23.89
- United Press International 06.02.89
- United Press International 04.03.90
- Philadelphia Inquirer 07.28.02
- Miami New Times 04.17.03
- Pittsburgh Post-Gazette 06.15.03
- Pittsburgh Post-Gazette 02.28.04
- Pittsburgh Tribune Review 09.28.05
- Pittsburgh Post-Gazette 10.01.17
- PA Grand Jury Report Profile 08.14.18
- Tribune Review 10.05.18
- Diocese of Pittsburgh List 2019
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