HARRISBURG, PA — In a notable case of financial misconduct within the religious community, George Athanasiou, a priest from Washington County, has admitted to felony theft charges in a court proceeding that has captured significant public attention, as announced by Attorney General Michelle Henry.
Athanasiou, 37, served at All Saints Greek Orthodox Church in Canonsburg, where he engaged in the unauthorized signing and depositing of over 200 church donation checks for personal use between 2022 and 2023. The checks, which he was neither authorized to sign nor endorse, were deposited via ATM transactions. The investigation, led by the Office of the Attorney General, uncovered a trail of illicit activity substantiated by video evidence showing Athanasiou in the act of endorsing and depositing the checks.
Upon entering his plea in Washington County Court, Athanasiou made a restitution payment of $155,000 to the church, aiming to rectify the financial losses incurred by his actions. The restitution underscores the financial impact of his misconduct on the church community, which had entrusted him with its donations intended for church-related purposes and support.
Attorney General Henry emphasized the breach of trust involved in the case, stating, “Stealing money is theft, plain and simple, whether it is committed by a petty criminal or a trusted faith leader, which was the case here — this priest betrayed parishioners by stealing donations that otherwise would have benefited the church.” This statement highlights the broader implications of the case for the enforcement of laws against financial misconduct, particularly in positions of trust.
The court has scheduled Athanasiou’s sentencing for February 18, 2025. The prosecution was handled by Senior Deputy Attorney General Evan Lowry.
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