Priest with gambling addiction allegedly steals $117k from church to gamble

In North Strabane, Washington County, Pennsylvania, Father George Athanasiou, an associate priest of All Saints Greek Orthodox Church, is accused on 223 charges of theft, forgery, and unlawful taking of money. He was accused of stealing more than $100,000 from his parish and was sent to prison in November. He stole money by cashing checks unlawfully, according to the accusations, and admitted to having a gambling addiction when questioned.

His arrest in November 2022 followed the alleged misappropriation that started in April 2022. After posting bond, Father Athanasiou was released, but he must now go through a mental health evaluation. The case was transferred to the Office of Attorney General of Pennsylvania from the Washington County District Attorney’s Office due to potential conflicts of interest.

Several All Saints Greek Orthodox Church members are said to have supported Father Athanasiou despite the accusations, and his defense lawyer Pat Thomassey has proposed restitution plans, stating, “We’re gonna pay back all this money, every cent.” Athanasiou had acknowledged to having a gambling addiction, the lawyer said, which in some circumstances might result in criminal action like embezzlement.

Related Article About: Gambling Addiction

Original story by: Gambling News