Statement in Response to Sentencing of Fr. Janko Kolosnjaji – October 9, 2025
The trial judge has ruled that a period of incarceration is mandatory for a conviction involving a sexual assault on a minor. She has sentenced Fr. Janko Kolosnjaji to a prison sentence of 8 months followed by 18 months of probation with a number of conditions.
The Eparchy sincerely regrets that the complainant suffered the indignity of being the subject of inappropriate contact by an adult male, let alone a member of the clergy. This was no doubt most distressing both to her and to her family.
Fr. Janko has a right to appeal both his conviction and his sentence to a higher court. That is a decision he will make in consultation with his legal counsel.
Fr. Janko, who has been on administrative leave since the charges first came to the attention of the Eparchy, will remain on administrative leave while proceedings under canon law take their course. The canonical investigation has been completed, and the matter has been referred to the Vatican for further direction.
The Eparchy looks upon any allegation of sexual misconduct on the part of church personnel as an urgent matter that requires serious attention. The Eparchy wishes to reassure members of the faithful and the members of the public that it continues to educate its clergy, employees, and volunteers in procedures to safeguard vulnerable persons, especially minors. The Eparchy has an established safeguarding protocol which complies with the requirements established by the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops. Our full Safeguarding Policy can be accessed by visiting: www.skeparchy.org.
The Eparchy also recognizes that Fr. Janko’s family, acquaintances, and former parishioners may be suffering from shock, disbelief, or even grief as they process the fact that Fr. Janko has been found guilty of sexual assault and that he has been sentenced to serve time in prison. The Eparchy urges anyone who is having difficulties coping with this knowledge to seek help and is prepared to provide pastoral care.