WILKES-BARRE, PA — The Diocese of Scranton has placed Holy Redeemer High School Athletic Director John Patrick "JP" Aquilina on administrative leave amid an active joint criminal investigation by local law enforcement and county prosecutors.
Luzerne County District Attorney Sam Sanguedolce and Wilkes-Barre City Police Chief Michael Boyle confirmed Wednesday that detectives received complaints alleging inappropriate conduct involving a student. In a joint statement, authorities noted that the investigation remains in its early stages and is being conducted by Wilkes-Barre City Police detectives and District Attorney's Office detectives, with investigative assistance from the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).
Sanguedolce emphasized that officials have not yet confirmed the specific nature or scope of the allegations, noting that the ongoing inquiry will determine the exact type of conduct involved. As of Wednesday afternoon, no criminal charges have been filed.
Aquilina has served as athletic director at Holy Redeemer High School for more than a decade. School Principal Colin Martinson notified student families of Aquilina’s administrative leave earlier in the week. Eric Deabill, a spokesman for the Diocese of Scranton, declined to comment further on the investigation, citing diocesan policy regarding active personnel matters.
Law enforcement officials stated that additional information will be released as the investigation progresses and findings can be made public.
