A priest at a Leawood, Kansas, parish has stepped down from his position amid a police investigation involving another adult, prompting swift action from the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas.

KCTV 5 reported that the Father Richard Storey has resigned as pastor of Curé of Ars Parish, as both civil and canonical investigations are underway following notification from Prairie Village Police about a criminal matter.

The Archdiocese made the resignation publicly known, confirming that law enforcement informed them of a criminal investigation involving Father Storey. Though the matter is said to involve another adult, further details have not been released at this time.

Temporary Sanctions Now in Place Against Pastor

Following the departure, the Archdiocese placed Father Storey under immediate suspension from all priestly duties. This means he cannot lead Mass, deliver sacraments, or fulfill other pastoral obligations during the course of the investigation.

The Prairie Village Police Department is leading the investigation, and the Archdiocese has committed to supporting the inquiry. They have also started a preliminary canonical probe to examine the situation under Church law.

“The Archdiocese is fully cooperating with authorities so they can investigate the serious allegations being made against Father Storey,” the Archdiocese stated in a public message addressing the development.

Archdiocese Responds With Leadership Changes and Statement

During this transitional period, Archbishop James V. McKnight appointed Father John Riley, who serves as the vicar general of the Archdiocese, to fill the role of temporary parish administrator. Riley will oversee the operations at Curé of Ars Parish while the investigation continues.

The Archdiocese described the situation as “devastating” for the parish and the larger faith community. They asked for prayers from parishioners and pledged to take steps that are both just and pastorally sensitive.

"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 statement continued.

Community Encouraged to Report Information

Officials from the Archdiocese urged anyone who might have relevant information tied to the investigation to contact the Prairie Village Police Department at 913-642-6868. No other details about the matter have been disclosed publicly.

The investigation remains active, and the Archdiocese has confirmed that no additional comments or information will be provided until further developments occur. This decision is intended to safeguard the integrity of both the civil and canonical investigations.

No formal charges have been reported at this time, and authorities have not released the nature of the alleged conduct. The lack of public detail has left many in the community uncertain, though Church officials have pledged transparency when appropriate.

Background on Father Storey and Parish

Father Richard Storey formerly served as the pastor at Curé of Ars Parish, a Roman Catholic parish in Leawood. His responsibilities included spiritual leadership, sacramental duties, and broader community engagement within the Archdiocese.

The Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas oversees numerous parishes throughout northeastern Kansas and is led by Archbishop James V. McKnight. The organization affirmed its cooperation with civil authorities and emphasized the well-being of the parish community during this time.

The situation has drawn concern from many within the local Catholic community, who are looking to Church officials for guidance and reassurance as the investigations unfold.