Pittsburgh Episcopal Cathedral Dean Charged with Walmart Theft

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The Very Rev. Aidan Smith, head priest and dean of Trinity Episcopal Cathedral in downtown Pittsburgh, was arrested on February 27 after police say he walked out of a Walmart with 27 packs of baseball cards concealed under his clothing and in a cardboard box. Smith, 42, was charged with receiving stolen property and retail theft, with Walmart valuing the stolen cards at $1,099.99.

Why it matters

The case raises questions about accountability within religious institutions, as Smith is a senior clergy member whose alleged actions contradict the moral authority expected of his position. The Episcopal Diocese of Pittsburgh's response has been criticized for focusing on pastoral language rather than directly addressing the misconduct allegations.

The details

Police said Walmart security video shows Smith taking baseball cards on each of the four previous days before his arrest and leaving without paying. Walmart security told police that Smith kept returning to the store after having stolen from it in prior visits, establishing a pattern of alleged theft. The timeline also reveals that Smith had been on administrative leave from the diocese since late January, about a month before his arrest, though the diocese has not explained the reason for the leave.

• On February 27, Smith was arrested after allegedly walking out of a Walmart with 27 packs of stolen baseball cards.
• In the four days prior to his arrest, police say Smith stole baseball cards from the same Walmart on each occasion.

What they’re saying

What’s next

The Episcopal Diocese of Pittsburgh has stated it will investigate the situation and follow the church canons for handling clergy misconduct, though it remains unclear if any additional disciplinary actions will be taken against Aidan Smith.