Reporting Abuse to the Diocese of Erie
The diocese encourages anyone who has experienced sexual abuse or misconduct by a member of the clergy or any employee or volunteer of the church, to contact law enforcement. To report abuse to the independent investigators retained by the Diocese of Erie, email ErieRCD@KLGates.com. Victims or concerned individuals also are welcome to contact the diocese directly to report such abuse at 814.451.1543. In addition, anyone can directly report suspected child abuse of minors to Pennsylvania ChildLine by calling 800.932.0313. The line is open 24/7, and callers may choose to remain anonymous.
The diocese takes seriously its responsibility for pastoral care for those who have been harmed by sexual abuse committed by a member of the clergy or any employee or volunteer of the church. The Victim Assistance Coordinator, Dr. Gerard Tobin, is available to survivors of such abuse and/or their families to assist and coordinate whatever range of pastoral care is deemed necessary. Dr. Tobin can be reached at 814-451-1521.
Reporting Past Abuse
• To report past sexual abuse to the diocese call 814-451-1543.
To report past sexual abuse to the diocesan independent investigators email ErieRCD@KLGates.com.
• When making a report to the Diocese of Erie, your complaint will be reported to the proper civil
authorities if not already reported. In addition, your report will be investigated and adjudicated in accord with the norm of Church law, with due regard for the jurisdiction that civil authority may have in the matter.
There is never a time when an individual loses the right to speak with civil authorities. All victims reporting abuse to the diocese have the right to report alleged abuse directly to the local Office of the District Attorney, the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services ChildLine, or the local County Office of Children and Youth and to seek counsel from an attorney of their own choosing.
Children and Youth Offices by County
Revised: May 2024