From staff reports
The Erie Catholic Diocese announced over the weekend that the Rev. Charles R.. Schmitt, 86, a priest who served as an administrator at St. Michael Church of the Archangel in Emlenton, has been prohibited from all public ministry as well as any contact with minors.
The decision is effective immediately.
Schmitt, who served the Emlenton church in 2012 and 2013, retired as pastor of St. Gabriel Parish in Port Allegany in 2006. He then went on to work as administrator at Catholic churches in Emporium, Tidioute and Emlenton.
The matter has been turned over to the Erie County district attorney.
In addition, the Most Rev. Lawrence T. Persico, bishop of Erie, has intitiated an independent investigation through the K&L Gates law firm of Pittsburgh. The firm represents the Erie Diocese.
Schmitt’s name was added to the Erie Diocese’s online public disclosure list in the under investigation section.
According to public reports, Schmitt was retired but had been filling in as priest for masses in some churches. The allegations against him mean he is no longer permitted to present himself as a priest.
Abuse can also be reported by calling the diocese at (814) 451-1543.
