Bishop David Zubik Pledges Full Cooperation in Arrest of Permanent Deacon

Bishop David Zubik Pledges Full Cooperation in Arrest of Permanent Deacon

I was distressed to learn that on Tuesday, April 10, 2018, Deacon Rosendo “Ross” F. Dacal, a permanent deacon of the Diocese of Pittsburgh, was arrested at his home for allegedinappropriate contact over the internet with a police officer posing as a minor. The police alsoconfiscated his computer due to the nature of the allegations.

Upon his arrest, Deacon Dacal was immediately placed on administrative leave and suspended from active ministry. Deacon Dacal had been assigned to All Saints Parish, Etna and the Allegheny County Jail since July 1, 2011. Both the parish and the jail have been notified of his arrest.

Even though Deacon Dacal is being charged in Washington County, I have also informed the Allegheny County District Attorney’s office of his arrest since he lives and has served in Allegheny County.

The charges against Deacon Dacal are disturbing. I have pledged to civil authorities the full cooperation of the Diocese of Pittsburgh in their investigation. We had no previous knowledge of his alleged activities.

The Diocese of Pittsburgh continues to work for the protection of children and young people and will not tolerate any behavior that puts them at risk. May we all dedicate ourselves to rooting out the evil of sexual abuse from our society.