NEW YORK – The Holy Eparchial Synod of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America during its spring meeting decided to punish Rev. James Dokos with a one year suspension for stealing money from a trust fund established by a parishioner in Milwaukie Wisconsin.
Dokos pleaded guilty to felony theft on February 22, 2016 admitting to stealing more than $100,000. He repaid the money, and if he stays out of trouble for a year and performs 40 hours of community service, the felony theft charge will be reduced to a misdemeanor.
Recently the Spiritual Court of the Metropolis of Chicago recommended as punishment a one year suspension from his priestly duties. The Eparchial Synod agreed with that decision.
The Holy Synod also recommended the defrocking of Rev. Anastasios Gounaris for abandoning his parish, St. Nicholas Cathedral in Tarpons Springs, FL, and his family to go with his mistress to Crete, Greece and Canada.
Gounaris notified his parish and his bishop, Metropolitan Alexios of Atlanta, via an e-mail from the airport as he was leaving. Details will follow.