Bishop David Bonnar of the Catholic Diocese of Youngstown has released a statement on the investigation of Father Michael Swierz, who resigned as priest of St. Patrick's Parish last year. 

Swierz resignation was a part of an ongoing investigation into issues that occurred while he was at St. Rose Parish in the late 1980's. 

Prior to his resignation, Swierz had been put on administrative leave, which means he was unable to function as a priest in any capacity anywhere else until the investigation is complete. 

An investigation by the diocese revealed a "disturbing pattern of behavior including serious boundary violations with minors, manipulation and abuse of power" by Swierz. 

The Dicastery for the Doctrine of Faith, which oversees religious discipline within the Catholic Church, reviewed the investigation in full, and also received a position statement from Father Swierz.  

The DDF determined that the action taken by Bishop Bonnar and the Diocese to place Father Swierz on administrative leave was correct, and that Father Swierz has retired from ministry and does not have faculties to serve in ministry. 

"I am grateful for all those who participated in this inquiry, most especially the input of the outside Independent Review Board and the validation offered by the Holy See. This has been painful on many levels. I pray for healing for anyone hurt by any member of the Church," said Bishop Bonnar in a statement.