Kansas Priest Charged with Felony Theft of $160,000 from Parish Funds
Father Richard Storey faces felony charges for allegedly embezzling $160,000 from a Leawood parish, prompting a wider diocesan audit.
A Catholic priest in Kansas has been charged with felony theft after an investigation revealed he allegedly embezzled $160,000 from his Leawood parish. Father Richard Storey is accused of using church funds for personal expenses, including international vacations, high-end retail purchases, and paying off personal credit card debts.
The charges stem from a financial audit that uncovered the missing funds. The diocese has since launched a broader forensic audit into an additional $590,000 in parish finances, though details on that portion remain under review.
Authorities have not disclosed whether the alleged theft is linked to gambling, but the case has drawn attention to financial oversight within religious institutions. The investigation is ongoing, and Storey has not yet entered a plea.
The Leawood parish, part of the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas, has not commented publicly on the case. If convicted, Storey could face significant prison time and restitution orders.
Written and illustrated by SpinScout's newsroom. For time-sensitive specifics, verify against official announcements.