Archbishop Naumann to Head Abuse Allegation Investigation

The Leaven
February 8, 2021

http://theleaven.org/archbishop-naumann-to-head-abuse-allegation-investigation/

The Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas has been made aware of a complaint concerning Bishop John B. Brungardt of Dodge City, who is accused of sexual abuse against a minor.

An investigation conducted by the Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) is under way. Bishop Brungardt denies the allegation and is cooperating fully with the KBl. He has, however, asked to step aside from his duties until the matter is resolved, a decision supported by his Metropolitan, Archbishop Joseph Naumann. Consequently, the Congregation for Bishops has appointed, with immediate effect, Most. Rev. Gerald L. Vincke, Bishop of Salina, as Apostolic Administrator sede plena of the Diocese of Dodge City.

The Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, which is competent in cases involving sexual abuse of minors, has asked Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann to carry out a canonical preliminary investigation of the matter, in conformity with the provisions of the Apostolic Letters motu proprio, Sacramentorum sanctitatis tutela and Vos estis lux mundi. Archbishop Naumann will send the results of this preliminary investigation to the Congregation, along with his opinion about the initial findings, in the shortest time possible, taking into account that the State investigation is still ongoing.

The Archdiocese takes seriously all allegations of abuse or misconduct. To report abuse involving Church personnel, after contacting law enforcement, please call the Confidential Report Line at 913.647.3051 or report online at https://archkck.org/reportabuse/. The care of survivors of abuse is of the utmost importance, and immediate care is offered to anyone who alleges to have been abused. Allegations of misconduct against any bishop in the United States should be communicated to law enforcement and also to the confidential third­party reporting system at 1.800.276.1562 or online at https://reportbishopabuse.org/.