This week it was announced that Rev. David Dzermejko, a Catholic priest who is currently on administrative leave while charges of child sex abuse are sent to Rome, is being represented by two attorneys from the Diocese of Youngstown.
When asked about the clergy abuse case, Monsignor Michael Cariglio said Dzermejko has, "vehemently denied the charges from the very beginning." He also said that he does not believe the allegations are credible.
14 months ago, allegations were made from a widow who said that the priest had molested her deceased husband throughout his childhood. After seeing news reports, another man also came forward and a diocesan review board told Bishop David Zubik that it believed the allegations were credible. Now, the case has been sent to Vatican officials who will decide during a church trial if there is enough evidence to remove Dzermejko from the ministry.
In June 2009, Dzermejko was removed as pastor from the Mary, Mother of the Church.
On Wednesday, Dzermejko's accuser sent a statement through the Survivors Network of those Abused by Priests. He said, "Unfortunately, it is a hollow victory. I feel no joy, no happiness, and no closure. I still feel the same as I did when the memories became unrepressed over a year ago. Shame, violation, emptiness."
If you have been subjected to sexual abuse at the hands of a priest, contact the Zalkin Law Firm and speak with a clergy abuse attorney.
When asked about the clergy abuse case, Monsignor Michael Cariglio said Dzermejko has, "vehemently denied the charges from the very beginning." He also said that he does not believe the allegations are credible.
14 months ago, allegations were made from a widow who said that the priest had molested her deceased husband throughout his childhood. After seeing news reports, another man also came forward and a diocesan review board told Bishop David Zubik that it believed the allegations were credible. Now, the case has been sent to Vatican officials who will decide during a church trial if there is enough evidence to remove Dzermejko from the ministry.
In June 2009, Dzermejko was removed as pastor from the Mary, Mother of the Church.
On Wednesday, Dzermejko's accuser sent a statement through the Survivors Network of those Abused by Priests. He said, "Unfortunately, it is a hollow victory. I feel no joy, no happiness, and no closure. I still feel the same as I did when the memories became unrepressed over a year ago. Shame, violation, emptiness."
If you have been subjected to sexual abuse at the hands of a priest, contact the Zalkin Law Firm and speak with a clergy abuse attorney.
