North Strabane, Pa. — George Athanasiou, the Greek Orthodox priest who embezzled $155,000 from All Saints Greek Orthodox Church in North Strabane to feed his gambling addiction, was sentenced on Tuesday. The courtroom was packed with nearly 50 church leaders and members who were present as Athanasiou expressed his deep remorse for his actions.
The 38-year-old priest, who pleaded guilty to one felony theft charge in November 2023, admitted that his gambling addiction had caused significant pain to the church community. He described the incident as a wake-up call and acknowledged the damage done to the trust placed in him as a spiritual leader.
“I need to regain that trust, and it will take a lifetime,” Athanasiou stated. “I have learned a lot about myself through counseling, and I hope one day to help others with similar struggles.”
Athanasiou’s theft occurred between April 2022 and November 2023, during which he stole funds from the church. He was arrested and initially faced over 200 felony counts before reaching a plea deal. As part of the agreement, he repaid the stolen amount in full through a restitution check, which was presented at the sentencing. Though he acknowledged it may take years to repay the money due to difficulties finding work, he’s been doing professional driving and delivering newspapers to make ends meet.
In a sentencing hearing that lasted nearly an hour, Athanasiou’s supporters, including the church’s senior priest, Rev. Dimitrios Kyritsis, spoke on his behalf. They praised his commitment to counseling and his efforts to repair the damage done to the church community.
“Father George” was given a 12-month sentence of electronic home monitoring, five years of probation, and 300 hours of community service. Despite his suspension from the church, many members have expressed their forgiveness, and some have written letters supporting his rehabilitation.
Judge Traci McDonald remarked that Athanasiou’s character had been highlighted by the support shown by the church community. “The road to recovery is long, but he’s committed,” Kyritsis said, noting that while the church’s decision on Athanasiou’s future is pending, the priest’s willingness to make amends is apparent.
Athanasiou has stated that he wishes to use his experience to help others who struggle with gambling addiction. “If it could affect me, it could affect anybody,” he said, emphasizing the importance of recovery.
Despite his conviction, Athanasiou’s supporters remain hopeful that he will continue to learn from his mistakes and make restitution in the years ahead. His attorney, Patrick Thomassey, expressed confidence in his client’s ability to rebuild his life, saying, “This is a good man, and he’ll make it right.”
