Head Priest of Pittsburgh Church Accused of Walmart Baseball Card Theft

The Very Rev. Aidan Smith faces charges of receiving stolen property and retail theft.

Published on Mar. 11, 2026

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The head priest and dean of Trinity Episcopal Cathedral in downtown Pittsburgh, the Very Rev. Aidan Smith, has been accused of stealing over $1,000 worth of baseball cards from a Walmart store in Economy Borough, just outside Pittsburgh. Police say Smith had 27 packs of baseball cards concealed under his clothing and in a box when he was arrested on February 27 after leaving the store.

Why it matters

This case raises concerns about the ethical conduct of religious leaders and the potential for abuse of trust within faith communities. It also highlights the ongoing problem of retail theft, which can have significant financial impacts on businesses.

The details

According to court records, Smith was charged with receiving stolen property and retail theft after Walmart security called the police, stating that Smith had been stealing baseball cards from the store on multiple previous occasions. Walmart security video allegedly shows Smith taking baseball cards each of the four previous days and leaving without paying. The total value of the stolen baseball cards is estimated at $1,099.99.

  • Smith was arrested on February 27, 2026.
  • Smith had allegedly been stealing baseball cards from the Walmart store over the previous four days.

The players

The Very Rev. Aidan Smith

The head priest and dean of Trinity Episcopal Cathedral in downtown Pittsburgh, who has been accused of stealing over $1,000 worth of baseball cards from a Walmart store.

The Right Rev. Ketlen Solak

The bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Pittsburgh, who stated that the diocese will investigate the situation and follow the church canons for handling clergy misconduct.

Walmart

The retail store where the alleged thefts took place, with security video footage reportedly showing Smith taking baseball cards on multiple occasions.

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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.”

— The Right Rev. Ketlen Solak, Bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Pittsburgh (Message to Trinity Episcopal Cathedral members)

What’s next

The judge will decide on Tuesday whether to allow the Very Rev. Aidan Smith to be released on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights the importance of ethical conduct and accountability for religious leaders, as well as the ongoing challenges of retail theft and its impact on businesses. It raises questions about the balance between compassion and consequences when dealing with misconduct within faith communities.