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The Catholic Diocese of Youngstown has disclosed alarming findings regarding Father Michael Swierz, a former pastor at Saint Patrick Church in Hubbard. A recent investigation revealed a troubling history of serious boundary violations involving minors, alongside manipulation and abuse of power, according to WFMJ.
The allegations against Swierz extend back to his tenure as an associate pastor at Saint Rose Parish located in Girard during the late 1980s and early 1990s. Following a report to the Diocese in March 2024, he was placed on administrative leave in June as the investigation commenced.
After completing the investigation, the Diocese presented its findings to an independent review board. The board reached a unanimous conclusion, advising Bishop David Bonnar that Swierz is "unsuitable for ministry" and should not return to his pastoral duties.
While the specifics of the boundary violations and abuses of power were not disclosed, attorney Victor Gerasi noted that incidents occurred both on and off church premises. This lack of detail has left many in the community seeking clarity.
In response to the findings, Bishop Bonnar urged the community to pray for those affected and for healing. He emphasized the importance of maintaining faith during this challenging time, stating, “We believe that he is the way, the truth and life.”
Gerasi acknowledged the difficulty of the decisions made throughout this process. He expressed the Diocese's compassion for victims, emphasizing that the bishop prays for them daily. He encouraged those affected to reach out through the Office of Safe Environment for support.
As the community grapples with these revelations, the Diocese remains focused on healing and ensuring the safety of its members.
In the wake of recent revelations regarding sexual misconduct within the Catholic church, many victims are left grappling with their experiences and the legal avenues available to them. To learn more, we spoke with Ohio attorney John Bey, who specializes in sexual abuse cases, to explore the rights of those affected by such incidents. He discussed the options for seeking accountability and the implications of the statute of limitations on these cases.
Editor Darla Medina: Can you explain the legal options available for victims of sexual abuse by a priest or pastor?
Attorney John Bey: Absolutely, Darla. Victims have several avenues to seek justice. They can pursue civil lawsuits against the individual perpetrator and the church or institution, such as the Catholic Diocese, that employed them. This can include claims for damages related to emotional distress, medical expenses, and more.
Medina: What about the statute of limitations? How does that affect victims seeking legal recourse?
Bey: The statute of limitations varies by state, but some jurisdictions have made changes to allow for longer time frames, especially in cases involving childhood sexual abuse. In Ohio, for instance, recent reforms have opened doors for survivors to file claims that might have previously been barred.
Medina: What steps should a victim take if they want to pursue legal action?
Bey: The first step is to consult with an attorney who specializes in sexual abuse cases. They can guide victims through the process, help them understand their rights, and determine the best course of action based on their individual circumstances.
Medina: Thank you for sharing this important information. It’s vital for victims to know their rights and the support available to them.
Bey: Thank you for having me, Darla. Awareness is key, and I hope more victims feel empowered to come forward.
If you or a loved one has experienced abuse, remember that you are not alone. It’s important to seek guidance and understand your rights. Our team is here to help you navigate the legal process and explore your options. Contact us today for a free consultation, and let us support you in taking the next steps toward healing and accountability.
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