Allentown Diocese Reacts To Sex Abuse Allegations Of Fmr. Priest - WMDT 47 News - Delmarva's Choice

OCEAN CITY, Md. - After Ocean City police arrest a former priest on alleged sexual assault and child abuse, his former diocese responds.

In a statement made to WMDT, Matt Kerr, the spokesperson of the Diocese of Allentown say,  "Bruno Tucci was a priest of the Diocese of Allentown from 1971-2002. He was removed from ministry in 2002 because of past allegations of sexual abuse.

"In 2002, the Diocese made available to the five district attorneys the files of all priests against whom allegations had been made. The DAs noted the Diocese's complete cooperation. The Vatican laicized Tucci or removed him from the clerical state in 2007. The Diocese was contacted by Ocean City police and cooperated in their investigation."

Officials say that Tucci worked in the following capacities with the diocese until his dismissal:

• Assistant, St. Margaret Church, Reading, 1971-72
• Professor, Cardinal Brennan High School, Ashland, 1972
• Resident, Annunciation Church, Shenandoah, 1972
• Professor, Marian High School, Tamaqua, 1972-1977
• Resident, St. Canicus Church, Mahanoy City, 1972-1974
• Resident, SS. Peter and Paul Church, Lehighton, 1974-1975
• Resident, Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church, Nesquehoning, 1975-1977
• Professor, Holy Name High School, Reading, 1977-1979
• Resident, St. Columbkill Church, Boyertown, 1977
• Resident, Most Blessed Sacrament Church, Bally, 1977-1978
• Resident, St. Peter Church, Reading, 1978-1981
• Professor, Reading Central Catholic High School, 1979-1981
• Pastor, Immaculate Conception Church, Kelayres 1981-1986
• Administrator and then Pastor, Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church. Nesquehoning, 1986-2002
• Pastor, Immaculate Conception Church, Nesquehoning, 1987-2002

In response to sexual abuse allegations in 2002 involving Tucci, among others, the diocese established victim assistance.    

Tucci allegedly brought a child to an Ocean City motel and committed sexual acts over 30 years ago. Police admit there is a possibility more victims are out there and ask for your help. 

Anyone who feels they were victimized by Tucci should call them at 410-723-6632.