SEDGWICK COUNTY—Authorities are investigating a Catholic priest for alleged sexual abuse of a minor.
On Monday, Bishop Carl A. Kemme of the Catholic Diocese of Wichita placed Rev. Michael Schemm, Church of the Resurrection, 4910 N Woodlawn Street in Bel Aire, on leave, according to a media release from the Diocese.
Sedgwick County District Attorney Marc Bennet said, “The Catholic Diocese of Wichita notified the Office of the District Attorney that allegations had recently been made against a priest working within the Diocese.
The allegations date to the time frame over 25 years ago. Late this morning (Tuesday Nov.1.), the matter was referred by this office to the Exploited and Missing Child Unit. Additional information may be made public following the presentation of the matter for a final charging determination at the conclusion of any follow up investigation.”
While on leave Father Schemm will be restricted from offering sacraments and preaching in the Catholic Diocese of Wichita until the investigation has been completed, according to the release.
Click here if you you, or someone you know, has been the victim of sexual misconduct committed by members of the clergy or call the KBI at 1-800-KS-CRIME (1-800-572-7463) or emailing [email protected]
The dioceses asks anyone who suspects abuse, inappropriate behavior or has been harmed by any person who has worked or volunteered for the diocese to contact the Diocesan Victim’s Assistance Coordinator at (316) 440-1757 or CatholicDioceseofWichita.org/promise-to-protect.