KANSAS CITY (MO)
Diocese of Kansas City-St. Joseph [Kansas City MO]
December 26, 2024
After a concerted effort to conduct a thorough investigation, the Diocese of Kansas City-St. Joseph Independent Ombudsman has discovered no additional information to corroborate the August 1, 2024, accusation against Ralph Wehner, and the complainant has withdrawn the lawsuit in which the accusation was made.
Therefore, the Independent Review Board has recommended to Bishop James Johnston that the diocese follow existing protocols and close the preliminary investigation. Bishop Johnston has lifted the precautionary suspension from exercising diaconal ministry and restored Deacon Ralph Wehner to active ministry.
The Diocese of Kansas City-St. Joseph is committed to accountability, action and investment of time and resources to stop the abuse of minors, prevent future abuse and foster healing for survivors and their families. Since 2002, 41,000 adults working or volunteering with the Church in our diocese have been trained in how to recognize and report child sexual abuse, establishing a strong culture of prevention.
The diocese takes all allegations of misconduct by church personnel very seriously and works to respond to survivors’ needs with urgency, respect and compassion. We encourage anyone with knowledge about any misconduct by a church volunteer, employee, religious or clergy member — regardless of when the abuse may have occurred — to contact civil authorities first, and then call or text the diocese’s confidential report line 816-812-2500 or email ombudsman@diocesekcsj.org.