The Diocese has no record of the abuse allegations against former priest Bruno Tucci that were made in the lawsuit, and was unaware of them until the lawsuit was filed.
Diocesan records indicate that Tucci was removed from ministry more than 16 years ago, on March 1, 2002. He was later dismissed from the priesthood.
The Diocese of Allentown has a zero-tolerance policy on allegations of abuse:
Priests are removed from ministry immediately, and the Diocese immediately notifies law enforcement. The Diocese is transparent about allegations of abuse in cooperation with law enforcement.
Since becoming Bishop on August 31, 2017, Bishop Alfred Schlert has continued the policy of zero tolerance, acting immediately to notify law enforcement and to remove accused priests.
Abuse is abhorrent and has no place in the Church. Bishop Schlert has apologized to victims and has set a clear tone of zero tolerance, and of keeping children safe.
The Diocese recently announced the formation of a compensation and reconciliation program to assist victims and survivors of past clergy sexual abuse.
Although compensation alone cannot repair the damage caused to those who were harmed, this program will meaningfully assist in recovery and healing for victims and survivors and their families.
