Pa. priest on leave, accused of child sexual abuse

HOLLIDAYSBURG, Pa. (AP) -August 25, 2012 (WPVI) -- A western Pennsylvania priest has been placed on leave amid allegations of sexual abuse involving children several decades ago.

The Catholic Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown said Friday that the Rev. George Koharchik, pastor of Saint Catherine of Siena Parish in Mount Union, will not be permitted to function as a priest and won't have contact with children while he is on leave.

Diocese spokesman Tony DeGol said the alleged sexual misconduct took place in the late 1970s. The alleged victims brought it to the attention of the church recently.

Bishop Mark Bartchak has notified the Cambria County district attorney of the accusations. The church did not elaborate further on the allegations.

DeGol said a letter from the bishop will be read to parishioners Sunday.

Get more Local/State »

children, child abuse, pennsylvania, local/state

• Comment Now
• Email
• Print
• Report a typo
•