Kansas City Archdiocese Removes Priest Following Sexual Abuse Allegation

The Archdiocese of Kansas City, Kansas has taken swift action in response to a sexual abuse allegation against one of its priests. Father Scott Kallal, a member of the Capuchin Franciscan religious order, has been removed from public ministry following an accusation of sexual abuse of a minor in Kansas.

Details of the Allegation

According to a statement released by the archdiocese, the alleged incident occurred more than five years ago. Father Kallal, who had been serving as associate pastor of Holy Spirit Catholic Church in Overland Park, has denied the accusation and is cooperating fully with the investigation.

Archdiocese's Response

Upon receiving notification of the allegation, the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas, along with the Capuchin Franciscans Province of Mid-America, took immediate action:

• Father Kallal was relieved from public exercise of priestly ministry pending the outcome of the investigation and review process.
• The archdiocese urged anyone with information about misconduct by any church personnel to come forward.

Priest's Previous Assignments

During his time in the archdiocese, Father Kallal has served at multiple parishes:

• Holy Spirit Catholic Church in Overland Park (current assignment at the time of the allegation)
• St. John the Evangelist Parish in Lawrence
• Holy Family Parish in Eudora

Wider Context of Clergy Abuse in Kansas

This case is part of a broader investigation into clergy sexual abuse in Kansas:

• The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) has opened 122 cases relating to clergy sexual abuse in the state's Catholic dioceses since launching an investigation in November 2018.
• This ongoing investigation highlights the seriousness with which authorities are treating allegations of clergy abuse in the state.

Call for Additional Information

The Survivors Network of Those Abused by Priests (SNAP) has urged Catholic officials in Kansas and Colorado, where Father Kallal previously worked, to publicly seek information from anyone who may have knowledge about the priest's conduct. SNAP emphasized the importance of encouraging potential victims, witnesses, and whistleblowers to come forward.

How to Report Abuse

If you have information about misconduct by church personnel or have been a victim of clergy abuse, it's crucial to speak out. You can contact:

• The Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas
• Local law enforcement
• The Kansas Bureau of Investigation

Legal Commentary From Our Attorneys

Reed Martens, Esq., a leading attorney at Abuse Guardians, offers the following commentary on this case:

"The swift action taken by the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas is commendable, but it's important to remember that these allegations represent just the tip of the iceberg. Many victims of clergy abuse suffer in silence for years before coming forward. It's crucial that we create an environment where survivors feel safe to speak out and seek justice. At Abuse Guardians, we're committed to supporting victims and holding institutions accountable for their role in enabling or covering up abuse. If you or a loved one has been affected by clergy abuse, know that you have rights and options. Don't hesitate to seek legal counsel to understand your path forward."

Source:

https://www.kansascity.com/news/state/kansas/article260984792.html