KSN
August 7, 2009
http://www.ksn.com/mostpopular/story/Wichita-priest-arrested-during-prostitution-sting/x-_vWd1uK0ONvETCF0ytRg.cspx
 |
WICHITA, Kansas – A Wichita Catholic priest has been arrested for sex crimes after an overnight prostitution sting in the Riverside neighborhood. The Bishop says the priest has been temporarily relieved of his duties at St. Jude Catholic Church in north Wichita while the case is investigated.
KSN is not identifying the priest until formal charges are filed; he was arrested for lewd and lascivious behavior, public nudity and being in the park after hours.
It all happened in Oak Park in the Riverside area at around 3:30 a.m. Friday. Wichita police were conducting a prostitution sting after complaints from neighbors. A 36-year-old man was also arrested in connection with the priest's case.
In all, seven people were arrested on various charges.
"This was to address recent neighborhood complaints,” said Capt. Darrell Haynes with the Wichita Police Department.
Arrest records show the priest’s address as the rectory at St. Jude’s Catholic Church on N. Amidon. The church’s Web site says the man has been the father there since September 1998.
In response to the arrest, the Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Wichita issued this statement:
"The Diocese of Wichita is cooperating fully with authorities, and will continue to do so, regarding the misdemeanor charges brought against a diocesan priest. This priest has been granted a temporary leave from his ministerial duties to receive counseling and help for his spiritual renewal. I am saddened by this situation. In addition to the common good, I am concerned and will care for the well-being of the priest and his parish."
KSN did talk to some people who attend the church but did not wish to be identified. They said the news is very surprising and they say the father was a respectful and trusted leader of the church.
Any original material on these pages is copyright © BishopAccountability.org 2004. Reproduce freely with attribution.