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(OSV News) — Bishop Barry C. Knestout of the Diocese of Richmond has removed a Virginia pastor for his mishandling of a case involving abuse allegations against a parishioner who was also a parent at the affiliated school.
As of June 12, Father Rob Cole has been relieved of his duties at St. John the Apostle Parish in Virginia Beach.
The media release from the Diocese of Richmond, dated June 12, indicates a decision by Bishop Knestout to introduce new pastoral leadership to St. John the Apostle parish for its benefit.
Previously, in May, Father Cole had been put on a temporary leave due to allegations that Vincent Jakawich, an adult member of the parish community, had molested two students from St. John the Apostle School years before.
Vincent Jakawich, an ex-Navy lieutenant and a pilot, was found to have died by suicide in North Carolina soon after the parents of a student from St. John the Apostle had gone public with accusations that he sexually abused their daughter years ago.
A clarification was issued by the school principal, Miriam Cotton, on May 10 that the allegations did not occur on the school premises, and superintendent Michael Riley communicated on May 17 that the proper civil and legal authorities had been notified of the incident.
Jakawich had faced legal issues before when he pleaded guilty in 2022 to misdemeanor assault and battery, a less severe charge reduced from a felony of aggravated sexual battery concerning a minor under 13, from an incident in 2020. He served no jail time.
In 2021, during bond proceedings related to his case, his legal representation sought permission for him to be on the campus of St. John’s school where his daughters attended, a decision that the parents of a recent victim called “shocking” given it implied he had access to the school.
The diocese also expressed Bishop Knestout’s deep regret and empathy towards the victims and their families and commended them for their bravery in coming forward with such allegations.
The bishop also recognized “Father Cole’s dedication and service as the pastor to this community for more than 15 years,” whilst thanking the parish community for their support and understanding during these trying times.
The diocese has appointed Father Esteban De Leon, the current pastor of Star of the Sea Catholic Church in Virginia Beach, as the interim administrator of St. John’s until a new permanent pastor is installed.
Report by Gina Christian, multimedia journalist for OSV News. She can be followed on X (formerly Twitter) at @GinaJesseReina
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FAQs About the Removal of Pastor in Virginia Over Abuse Allegations
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Why was Father Rob Cole removed from his position?
Father Rob Cole was removed from his position due to concerns about how he handled allegations of abuse against a parishioner, Vincent Jakawich, who was also a parent at St. John the Apostle School. -
Who is Vincent Jakawich?
Vincent Jakawich was a former Navy lieutenant, a pilot, and a parent at St. John the Apostle School accused of molesting two students years earlier. He was found deceased in North Carolina after having taken his own life. -
Were the incidents of abuse reported?
The school principal and superintendent both confirmed that the alleged abuse incidents were reported to civil authorities and law enforcement agencies. -
Had Vincent Jakawich faced legal trouble before?
Yes, Jakawich had previously pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor assault and battery, which was initially charged as aggravated sexual battery involving a child under 13 in 2020. -
What are the next steps for St. John the Apostle Parish?
Father Esteban De Leon will serve as the temporary administrator until a new pastor is assigned by the Diocese of Richmond.
