[News Release] Notice of Credible Allegation of Abuse

Diocese of Kansas City-St. Joseph
October 02, 2020

https://kcsjcatholic.org/2020/10/notice-reardon/

Bishop Johnston and diocesan leaders recognize how difficult it can be for a survivor of clergy sexual abuse to come forward and appreciate the great courage it takes in making a report to the Church.

The diocese has received and deemed credible an allegation of sexual abuse of a minor by Thomas Reardon. This allegation was deemed credible following the diocesan Policy for Response to Allegations, by the Ombudsman, Independent Review Board and Bishop Johnston. The abuse occurred in 1972 at Camp Little Flower, a diocesan camp for children ages 7-12, at 83^rd and Raytown Rd. where Reardon was Camp Director.

Reardon’s name is included on the diocese’s List of Accused Clerics with Substantiated Allegations, which can be found on the diocesan website here.  He has been laicized and is not able to function as a priest or present himself as one publicly.

Thomas Reardon was ordained in 1967 and served at several Kansas City area parishes including St. Elizabeth’s, St. John Francis Regis, Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, St. Gabriel the Archangel and Church of the Santa Fe in Buckner, Mo., through the 1980s, at which point he was removed from ministry.

The Diocese of Kansas City-St. Joseph takes very seriously any allegations of sexual abuse made against employees, clerics or volunteers who serve in the diocese. Anyone who has knowledge of such abuse or inappropriate behavior is encouraged to make a confidential report with the Ombudsman.  If you were harmed by Thomas Reardon or any other person who has worked or volunteered for the diocese, no matter how long ago, the diocese wants to provide care and healing resources to you and your family. Please contact the Ombudsman, Joe Crayon, at 816.812.2500 or crayon@ombudsmankcsj.org.