The Diocese of Scranton announced that the Pocono Mountain Regional Police Department has charged the Rev. Gregory F. Loughney, pastor of Most Holy Trinity Parish, Cresco.

Four criminal charges - all connected to alleged inappropriate contact with a minor - were filed against Father Loughney Saturday.

According to court dockets, the offense took place Oct. 20. The charges include criminal attempt - statutory sexual assault of a minor 11 years or older; criminal use of a communication facility, criminal attempt - corruption of minors and criminal attempt, indecent assault of a person less than 16 years of

age.

Under its long-standing zero-tolerance policy, the Diocese of Scranton said it immediately removed Loughney from active ministry pending the outcome of the investigation. The Diocese of Scranton will cooperate fully with law enforcement officials in their investigation.

Diocesan policy also involves notifying parishes, schools and other diocesan facilities where Father Loughney ministered to alert them of the charges.

Bishop Joseph C. Bambera is asking for prayers for all people who have been affected by this situation.

“Learning the details of the behavior with which Father Loughney has been charged is extremely upsetting,” Bishop Bambera said. “In no way is this alleged behavior to be tolerated in the life and ministry of a priest.”

Anyone who might have relevant information is asked to call the Pocono Mountain Regional Police Department at 570-895-2400, the Monroe County District Attorney’s Office at 570-517-3052, or any local law enforcement agency.