Pittsburgh Reverend Accused of Stealing Baseball Cards

Authorities say the Episcopal Diocese of Pittsburgh's head priest stole over $1,000 worth of trading cards from a local Walmart.

Published on Mar. 10, 2026

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Rev. Aidan Smith, the head priest and administrator of the Trinity Episcopal Cathedral in Downtown Pittsburgh, has been accused of stealing more than $1,000 worth of baseball trading cards from a local Walmart over multiple days in late February. Police say they caught Smith on surveillance video shoplifting the cards and arrested him on February 27th as he was leaving the store.

Why it matters

The alleged theft by a high-ranking religious leader has caused significant turmoil within the Episcopal Diocese of Pittsburgh, raising questions about clergy misconduct and the public's trust in religious institutions.

The details

According to police reports, Smith was observed on surveillance cameras stealing $244 worth of cards on February 23rd, $261 on February 24th, $121 on February 25th, and finally 27 packs worth $245 on February 26th, for a total of over $1,100 in stolen merchandise. When confronted in the Walmart parking lot, police say they found the cards hidden underneath Smith's clothing.

  • On February 23, Smith allegedly stole $244 worth of cards.
  • On February 24, Smith allegedly stole $261 worth of cards.
  • On February 25, Smith allegedly stole $121 worth of cards.
  • On February 26, Smith was caught with 27 packs worth $245.

The players

Rev. Aidan Smith

The head priest and administrator of the Trinity Episcopal Cathedral in Downtown Pittsburgh, who has been accused of stealing over $1,000 worth of baseball trading cards from a local Walmart.

Bishop Ketlen Solak

The bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Pittsburgh, who has stated the church will investigate the matter and follow the process for handling clergy misconduct.

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What they’re saying

“I have spoken with Aidan and assured him of our prayers for him in this difficult time. Please pray for Aidan, for Melanie and their children, for the entire cathedral congregation as we grieve this news, and for everyone involved in this hard situation.”

— Bishop Ketlen Solak, Bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Pittsburgh (cbsnews.com)

What’s next

Smith is scheduled to face a preliminary hearing later this month on charges of retail theft and receiving stolen property. The Episcopal Diocese of Pittsburgh has stated it will investigate the matter further.

The takeaway

This incident has shaken the faith community in Pittsburgh, raising concerns about the integrity of religious leaders and the need for greater accountability within the Episcopal Diocese. It underscores the importance of transparent processes for addressing clergy misconduct allegations.