A priest and teacher at Pius X has been suspended by the Diocese of Lincoln after he self-reported allegations of sexual misconduct. In a letter to Pius parents, it was announced that Father Joe Bernardo has been suspended after being placed on administrative leave.
Bernardo worked with the school for several years and the Diocese took a sabbatical and sought inpatient counseling late last year. During his sessions with a therapist, Bernardo self-reported a number of incidents of sexual misconduct and said he had intentionally rubbed up against one or more male students at Pius X.
In the letter from the Very Rev. Thomas Brouillette church officials said the incidents likely in a public area at Pius and may have seemed accidental, but reportedly was deliberate. Bernardo also reported occasions where he had taken photos of students in public places without their consent.
Bernardo also said he had taken photos of others in the locker rooms of public gyms unaffiliated with the school. The therapist reported the allegations to the Diocese of Lincoln and Bernardo was suspended. LPD has since begun an investigation into the self-reported allegations and the Diocese of Lincoln said it is cooperating with authorities.
Anyone with information should call Investigator Robert Norton at 402-441-8294.