Mail Tampering at St. Sava: A New Low in the Ongoing Dispute – And a Potential Federal Crime

In the latest twist in the saga at St. Sava Serbian Orthodox Cathedral in Parma, Ohio, evidence has emerged of what appears to be deliberate mail tampering directed at Father Dragoslav Kosic. While Father Dragoslav continues to reside at his address on approved Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) leave, his incoming mail is being returned to senders marked "NOT KNOWN" and "UNABLE TO FORWARD."

This is not an isolated incident—it happened just before the New Year, and it's a clear attempt to isolate a beloved priest who remains entitled to all his benefits under both U.S. law and Serbian Orthodox Church canons.

The Incident: Returned Mail and a Trustee's Involvement

A photo of a returned envelope, addressed to Father Dragoslav at his residence , shows USPS markings indicating the mail was rejected as if the addressee was unknown or had moved. The envelope was sent back with notes suggesting interference.

Sources confirm that a trustee board member with the initials Z.L. visited the local post office and arranged for this block, falsely claiming Father Dragoslav no longer resides there. This is despite Father Dragoslav still living at the address and maintaining his canonical rights.

Is This a Crime?

Absolutely, it could be. Under federal law:18 U.S.C. § 1701 (Obstruction of Mails): Knowingly obstructing mail delivery is punishable by fines or up to 6 months in prison.

18 U.S.C. § 1702 (Obstruction of Correspondence): Taking or interfering with another's mail before delivery can lead to up to 5 years in prison.

18 U.S.C. § 1708 (Theft of Mail): If this is part of a scheme to deprive him of communications (e.g., donations or support), it fits here too.

In Ohio, this could also violate state laws on tampering with records or harassment. This isn't just petty—it's a calculated move to cut off Father Dragoslav from his community, potentially interfering with his pastoral duties.

FMLA Protections: Benefits Guaranteed

Father Dragoslav is on approved FMLA leave and guaranteed continuation of all benefits (health insurance, pension, stipend) as if he were actively working.

Canonically, the Serbian Orthodox Church Constitution reinforces this:

Canons protect clergy benefits during leave or disputes—depriving them without due process is a violation.

Whoever orchestrated this (Z.L. or others) ignores both civil and canonical law. Benefits are guaranteed for the first 6 months (and beyond if extended), like it or not.

A Pattern of Harassment

This mail tampering fits a broader pattern:

Destroyed cameras and false theft accusations.

Removal of the antimins (holy altar cloth).

Trespass notices against grandmothers and mothers protesting outside.

Now, blocking a priest's mail while he's on protected leave.

These actions aren't governance—they're retaliation. And they won't stop the 120 families standing outside their own church in witness.

Call for Accountability

We demand:

Immediate lifting of the mail block—Father Dragoslav must receive his correspondence.

Investigation into Z.L.'s actions by USPS Postal Inspectors and Ohio authorities.

Full restoration of all rights and benefits for Father Dragoslav.

Transparency from the diocese: Stop the games and start a real dialogue.

The faithful of St. Sava deserve better than lies, interference, and criminal tactics. If this continues, it will only fuel the growing calls for justice—from the Ohio AG, federal authorities, and the Holy Synod itself.

UNWORTHY

#SaveStSava #OrthodoxIntegrityExposed #JusticeForFatherDragoslav