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  Wichita Priest Arrested after Sex Sting Operation

Examiner
August 7, 2009

http://www.examiner.com/x-14802-Wichita-Headlines-Examiner~y2009m8d7-Wichita-Priest-arrested-after-Sex-Sting-operation

A Wichita priest was arrested early Friday morning for sex crimes at a local park.

Father Doug Campbell, pastor at St. Jude Parish was arrested today during a sex crimes sting at Oak Park.

The news of the local priest's arrest spread quickly, and everyone who knows Campbell was shocked.

In a statement to local news station KAKE News Friday afternoon, Bishop Michael Jackels said:

"The Diocese of Wichita is cooperating fully with authorities, and will continue to do so, regarding the misdemeanor charges brought against a diocesan priest. This priest has been granted a temporary leave from his ministerial duties to receive counseling and help for his spiritual renewal. I am saddened by this situation. In addition to the common good, I am concerned and will care for the well-being of the priest and his parish."

Police also arrested six other people during the sting. One of those people was arrested with Father Campbell at the same time and location.

"I believe there was undercover and surveillance both used in this incident," said Wichita Police Captain Darrell Haynes.

Campbell and the others were booked into the Sedgwick County Jail, Campbell at 4:40 Friday morning and soon after posted bail. He was held on charges of lewd and lascivious behavior, public nudity, and remaining in a park after hours. None of the charges brought against Father Campbell involves children.

Campbell has a municipal court appearance scheduled for August 27th.

This is the first time in three years a Kansas priest has been accused of sexual crimes. The last was Father Dennis Schultz of Seneca, Kansas. Schultz was convicted of sexually abusing a 15 year-old boy. He served his time and was released in 2006. Father Robert Larson, of Newton, was also convicted of abusing several teenagers. He is currently on parole after being released from prison in 2006.

 
 

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