On May 28, 2019, the Independent Diocesan Review Board met and carefully considered the report of Investigator Thomas E. Fowler, Jr., who had been asked to investigate allegations of child sexual abuse against Fr. Michael P. Juran.  As a result of this report and the recommendation of the Independent Diocesan Review Board, Bishop Richard J. Malone has determined that, based on the information presented at this time, allegations of child sexual abuse against Fr. Juran have been substantiated, and he will remain on administrative leave while the results of the Diocesan investigation are reviewed by the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith at the Vatican in Rome, who will make the final determination.

The Independent Diocesan Review Board also carefully considered the report of Steven L. Halter, Director, Office of Professional Responsibility, who had been asked to investigate an allegation of child sexual abuse against Fr. Robert M. Yetter.  As a result of this report and the recommendation of the Independent Diocesan Review Board, Bishop Richard J. Malone has determined that the allegation of child sexual abuse against Fr. Yetter has not been substantiated.  Because allegations of adult sexual abuse by Fr. Yetter are still being considered, he will remain on administrative leave.

Finally, the Diocese of Buffalo also received complaints from adults regarding improper conduct by Fr. Joseph C. Gatto and a complaint of improper conduct involving an adult female by Fr. Samuel T. Giangreco, Jr.  Both Fr. Gatto and Fr. Giangreco were placed on administrative leave and underwent professional evaluation and remedial measures in accordance with diocesan policies.  The evidence regarding the investigations of these matters was presented to the Independent Diocesan Review Board, which recommended findings that, in each case, the improper conduct did not rise to the level that would require removal from active priestly ministry.  Bishop Malone has accepted those recommendations and will determine their assignments at the appropriate time.