Diocese of Greensburg releases report on hiring of parish employee with criminal history

GREENSBURG, Pa. (KDKA) – A five-page written report from the Diocese of Greensburg outlining an internal investigation was released to the public Monday a man with a long criminal past was able to work in one of their parishes for years.

Negligence is the word used to describe how Shon Harrity, the former Immaculate Conception Parish cemetery worker with a long criminal history that includes rape, sexual assault and aggravated assault against a minor, was hired by the diocese in 2012 He then worked for them until he was arrested in May for the rape and sexual assault of a 16-year-old girl.

“When this situation arose and was brought to my attention,” said Larry Kulick, the bishop of Greensburg, “it was very shocking to me because it was a terrible failure of our higher standards, our protocols and our procedures.”

Not only did the investigation focus on a re-examination of the files and backgrounds of over 8,000 diocesan employees and volunteers that found no other such problems, but it also focused on who knew what and when.

One of the key respondents was Father John Monieau, pastor of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Parish in North Huntingdon and Immaculate Conception Parish in Irwin. He was placed on leave during this canonical investigation and due to a criminal investigation.

While the criminal investigation concluded that Father Monieau did not commit a criminal act as a result of his oversight, the canonical investigation detailed violations of canon law and policy, but nothing that could strip Father Monieau of his position as a priest.

“After all of this and after the investigation is complete,” said Bishop Kulick, “today we announce that Father John Monieau is being commissioned. He will return home to Lower Burrell and the communities of New Kensington.”

Father Monieau, who is currently battling cancer, is only allowed to help with pastoral care. In his new position he will not carry out any managerial or administrative activities.

As for the diocese, the bishop says it has raised its standards and is taking more care in hiring and background checks. The bishop says now is the time to heal and remember the victims affected by Shon Harrity.

The full diocese report can be found here.