Statement on Abuse Complaint

Statement on Rev. Vincent Panepinto

March 27, 2011

An allegation of sexual abuse of a minor dating back to the late 1960s has been made against Rev. Vincent Panepinto and deemed credible after an investigation by the Diocese of Rochester.

Rev. Panepinto has been placed on administrative leave and his priestly faculties have been withdrawn. He can no longer exercise public ministry in any capacity.

Rev. Panepinto was ordained a priest on June 3, 1967.  He served at the former St. Philip Neri parish in Rochester and St. Anthony’s in Elmira; St. Michael’s in Rochester; as a chaplain at several state correctional facilities and at Our Lady of Mercy High School; as spiritual director at Becket Hall discernment house; as pastor of the former City East parishes in Rochester (Corpus Christi, Holy Redeemer, Our Lady of Mt. Carmel); and most recently as sacramental minister of St. Frances Xavier Cabrini parish in Rochester.

 HELP FOR VICTIMS: The Diocese of Rochester encourages victims of abuse to always report to the civil authorities. To report a case of possible sexual abuse and to receive help and guidance from the Diocese of Rochester, victims are encouraged to contact Barbara Pedeville, the victims’ assistance coordinator appointed by Bishop Matthew H. Clark: Phone 585-328-3228, ext. 1215 (toll-free 1-800-388- 7177, ext. 1215), or  by e-mail to

Resources:

Diocese of Rochester Creating a Safe Environment website
Bishop Clark’s 2010 column on preventing sexual abuse