Crime & Safety

Former Mentor Pastor Is Under Investigation By Police

Shawn Harris has had his license to practice ministry revoked by the United Methodist Church

Shawn Harris, a former associate pastor at , has had his license to practice ministry revoked and is under investigation by police, according to a message posted on the Mentor church's website.

The message is from Rev. Dave Scavuzzo, the superintendent of the faith's Western Reserve District, which includes Mentor United Methodist Church.

"Many of you know that Shawn Harris has been on a two week leave," Scavuzzo said. "This was due to the beginning of a police investigation. There have been numerous allegations that Pastor Shawn Harris has been involved in the theft of prescription drugs from people entrusted into his care as pastor."

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The investigation is a joint effort by Mentor and Fairport Harbor Police Departments, according to Fairport Harbor Chief Mark Kish and Mentor Sgt. Richard Slovenkay.

Kish said that Harris is suspected of stealing prescription drugs from at least five people.

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"He knew all of these people through the church," Kish said.

Kish and Slovenkay both said the investigation is still ongoing and no charges have been filed yet.

"Shawn has had numerous opportunities to sincerely turn toward a redemptive plan that could have restored him to ministry," Scavuzzo said. "Since Shawn has rejected these chances, his calling and vocation in the UM Church for now in general and here at Mentor in particular has not been able to be salvaged."

Scavuzzo spoke to the church on Sunday and encouraged everyone to pray for Harris, who is a Lake County native and a Riverside High School graduate.

"Even now we are working with Shawn in a way toward healing and perfected love, but let me be clear that Shawn’s violation of the sacred trust has resulted in the removal of his license to practice ministry in the UMC," he said.

The church has offered ways to help its members deal with their feelings. They are hosting a prayer vigil 7 p.m. today. Also, a support group will be started to help those who Harris may have stolen from.

Scavuzzo also encouraged other church members who think Harris may have stolen prescription drugs from them to call their local police department.

Scavuzzo's message is attached to this story as a PDF.


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