Archdiocese Bars Phil Baniewicz After Probe Reviewed 16 Allegations Over 40 Years
Updated
Updated · KSHB 41 Kansas City News · Aug 20
Archdiocese Bars Phil Baniewicz After Probe Reviewed 16 Allegations Over 40 Years
2 articles · Updated · KSHB 41 Kansas City News · Aug 20
Summary
A year-long independent investigation found former Bishop Miege president Phil Baniewicz unfit for any ecclesiastical employment, barring him from working, volunteering or serving in ministry across the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas.
The archdiocese said a firm conducted 68 interviews and examined 16 allegations from about 1985 to 2025, finding a consistent pattern of imprudent conduct, failed boundaries with minors and deficient safeguarding practices.
The review stopped short of the certainty needed for a canonical disciplinary case, but Archbishop Shawn McKnight said the findings still required administrative action to protect minors and vulnerable people.
Baniewicz had been placed on leave in June 2025 over safe-environment concerns and was fired from Miege in August after families, alumni and former students raised allegations tied to roles in Arizona and Kansas.
Baniewicz has never been charged with a crime, and the archdiocese said he was interviewed and allowed to submit a written statement during the investigation.