Statement of Joseph Zwilling, on behalf of the Archdiocese of New York

As is our practice and our promise, the Archdiocese of New York first reported the allegation from the parents concerning Father Thomas Kreiser to the Westchester District Attorney’s office in September when it came to our attention.  Both the archdiocese and the Parish of Saint Joseph, where Father Kreiser was assigned at the time, have been fully cooperating with the DA, and will continue to do so.  While we will wait for the justice system to complete its work, due to the serious nature of the allegation, Father Kreiser has not been permitted to exercise his priestly ministry or present himself as a priest since the allegation arose.

We once again encourage anyone who has experienced abuse, no matter the source, to report it to the District Attorney.  If anyone has suffered abuse by a priest or deacon of the archdiocese, we ask again that you contact our Victim’s Assistance Coordinator, Sister Eileen Clifford, at 646-794-2949, so that we might offer our assistance as well.