Investigation and Action
The Ombudsman receives and investigates all allegations of sexual abuse of a minor or a vulnerable adult perpetrated by an employee, volunteer, priest or deacon in the Diocese of Kansas City-St. Joseph.
When you have reasonable cause to suspect sexual abuse of a minor or vulnerable adult, you must call:
- The Missouri Child Abuse Hotline at 1.800.392.3738, if the victim is under the age of 18
- The Missouri Adult Abuse and Neglect Hotline at 1.800.392.0210, if the victim is a vulnerable adult
- Local law enforcement or 911 if you believe the person is in immediate danger
Then, you are asked to report to the Ombudsman, if the suspected abuser is an employee, volunteer, priest or deacon in the Diocese of Kansas City-St. Joseph. All reports pointing to criminal behavior will be reported to the proper civil authorities, who will conduct the primary investigation. The Ombudsman’s protocol will help to determine whether the accused is suitable for employment, volunteer service, or ministry.
To ensure the integrity of the investigation conducted by the Ombudsman and to exercise respect for all affected parties, the Ombudsman cannot conduct an investigation based on anonymous information. However, all anonymous reports will be forwarded to the appropriate civil authorities.
To report an incident of sexual misconduct involving a bishop of the United States and/or a bishop’s interference in a sexual abuse investigation, please contact the Catholic Bishop Abuse Reporting Service (CBAR) at ReportBishopAbuse.org or call 1 (800) 276-1562.