The Diocese of Scranton is investigating allegations made against a high-ranking church official in Washington, D.C., who previously served at churches within the diocese, including Wilkes-Barre and East Stroudsburg.

Eric Deabill,spokesman for the diocese, said a comprehensive investigation of Monsignor Walter R. Rossi is now underway. Rossi served more than 20 years at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington, D.C.

In a prepared statement, Deabill said concerns were raised in the public sector regarding Rossi about a year ago. The Diocese referred the matter to the Archdiocese of Washington, D.C., which investigated certain specific allegations and determined they were unfounded.

"Additional concerns have now surfaced, however, requiring a broadened investigation," Deabill said.

Deabill did not provide any further detail of the nature of the concerns or say where or when any conduct under investigation occurred. He also did not respond to a question about whether Rossi has been placed on leave pending the investigation. Attempts to reach spokespersons for the Basilica were unsuccessful.

Rossi, a Dunmore native, was ordained as a priest in the Diocese of Scranton in 1987. He served as assistant pastor at St. Matthew Parish in East Stroudsburg in 1987 and St. Nicholas Parish in Wilikes-Barre in 1990. He studied Canon Law at the Catholic University of America in 1995 and was later appointed associate rector and director of pilgrimages at Basilica in 1997. In 2005 he was appointed rector of the Basilica.

Because Rossi is incardinated in the Diocese of Scranton, Bishop Joseph C. Bambera remains responsible for his priestly ministry, Deabill said. Bambera contacted Archbishop Wilton Gregory and they agreed the Diocese of Scranton and the Archdiocese of Washington, D.C. would jointly handle the investigation.

"While concerns have been raised in the public sector, there have been no credible accusations made against Monsignor Rossi regarding the abuse of a minor or of inappropriate behavior with an adult," Deabill said. "The investigation that has been initiated will be both independent and comprehensive."

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