Catholic priest resigns from Leawood parish amid police investigation

LEAWOOD, Kan. (KCTV) - A priest at a Catholic church in Leawood resigned.

The Archdiocese of Kansas City, Kansas announced Father Richard Storey resigned as pastor of Curé of Ars Parish in Leawood.

His resignation comes as the Prairie Village Police Department informed the Archdiocese of a criminal investigation involving Father Storey. Details of the investigation have not been made public, but the Archdiocese said it involves another adult.

“The Archdiocese is fully cooperating with authorities so they can investigate the serious allegations being made against Father Storey,” the Archdiocese said in a statement.

Archbishop McKnight has also started a preliminary canonical investigation.

The Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas temporarily suspended from his responsibilities as a priest. The Archdiocese also said Father Storey is not allowed to celebrate Mass or perform other pastoral duties.

The diocese said it will not provide any further information on the matter during the investigation.

Father John Riley, vicar general of the archdiocese, has been appointed as temporary administrator of the parish.

“We are devastated by this situation. While we cooperate with law enforcement and engage in our own efforts to understand the circumstances and to determine next steps for the community, we also ask for prayers for all affected,” the Archdiocese said in a statement.

Anyone with information that pertains to the investigation should be provided to the Prairie Village Police Department at 913-642-6868.