Former Kansas Priest Pleads Guilty to Stealing Over $150,000 from Parish

The Reverend Richard Storey, a former pastor at Cure of Ars Catholic Church in Leawood, Kansas, has pleaded guilty to the theft of more than $100,000. Court records indicate the total amount stolen was $159,362.92, which Storey has paid in full as restitution. The plea follows his arrest earlier this year and his subsequent resignation from the parish in September 2025.

Following the guilty plea to a felony charge, the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas announced it has initiated a preliminary canonical investigation into the matter. The archdiocese has also hired an independent firm to review its financial processes to ensure future stewardship. In addition to the financial crimes, the archdiocese is investigating separate allegations involving an adult victim. Storey remains suspended from all priestly duties, and his sentencing hearing is scheduled for January 11, 2027.