The allegations of sexual misconduct with a minor made against Reverend Thomas Crum are from more than 30 years ago. That's when Father Crum worked as a faculty member at Cardinal Mooney High School from 1975 to 1977. Since then, Father Crum has been assigned to Saint James Parrish in Warren and four churches in Mahoning County: Saint John the Baptist Parish in Campbell, Saint Christine's and Our Lady of Mount Carmel in Youngstown and Saint Charles Parish in Boardman.
Over a span of 34 years, Father Crum has worked at 12 different parishes within the Diocese. Most recently, he was the Pastor at Our Lady of Peace Parish in Canton. That church still lists him in that position on their website, but a press release issued says Father Crum has resigned, effective immediately. That statement also quotes Bishop George Murray saying:
"The Diocese of Youngstown continues to be committed to protecting children and helping heal victims of abuse. I am deeply sorry for the pain suffered by survivors of abuse due to actions of some members of the clergy, because nothing is more important than protecting our children," said Bishop Murray.
On Sunday, a letter from Bishop Murray was read at all of the parishes where Father Crum had served. That letter, we understand, went into greater detail as to the position of the Diocese regarding Father Crum, as well as, an explanation of the procedures that lie ahead. A spokesperson for the Diocese could not be reached for comment, but the Diocese is encouraging anyone who may have experienced sexual abuse by clergy members to call 330-744-8451 or notify the proper authorities.
