Two priests previously reported on in the Butler Eagle — and two others — have had their cases regarding alleged sexual abuse referred to the Vatican, according to the Diocese of Pittsburgh’s Independent Review Board. The board has found that accusations against John Bauer and Bernard Costello — who the Eagle reported in September 2018 were placed on academic leave — as well as Joseph Reschick and Richard Lelonis, who died last month, were credible based on evidence that was reviewed. The board also recommended that Bishop David Zubik not return the clergy members to ministry, and he accepted the recommendation.

The earliest accusation relates to abuse alleged to have occurred in the 1960s, while the other incidents were alleged to have occurred in the 1970s and 1980s.

The cases are being forwarded to the Vatican as is required by canon law. The Vatican will issue a decision regarding the clergy members’ status following a review. In the meantime, the clergy members remain on administrative leave, which means they cannot engage in public ministry, dress as priests or present themselves as priests in good standing.