A Catholic priest who formerly served at a church in Manhattan was arrested Wednesday evening by Kansas Bureau of Investigation agents for charges of child sex crimes.
Agents arrested Ryan McCandless, 44, of Wichita at 5:05 p.m. in the 2100 block of South Erie Street in Wichita. He is charged with three counts of aggravated indecent liberties with a 6-year-old child in Belleville. McCandless remains in the Sedgwick County Jail and is expected to be transferred to the Republic County Jail.
His previous posts include service as an associate chaplain at St. Isidore’s Catholic Student Center and pastor of Seven Dolors Catholic Church. McCandless also provided service to Manhattan Catholic Schools.
The Republic County Sheriff’s Office requested assistance from the KBI in September regarding McCandless’ alleged sexual abuse between July and September 2025.
McCandless had most recently been the pastor of three parishes in Republic County: St. Edward Parish in Belleville, St. George Parish in Munden and St. Isidore Parish in Cuba. The Diocese of Salina suspended McCandless from ministry when it was made aware of the reported incidents.
A statement released by the diocese said, “We are extremely sorry for any pain and suffering that has taken place for any victim of sexual abuse.” It further stated the allegations were reported to “both civil and ecclesiastical authorities,” and the diocese is fully cooperating with the investigation.
The diocese said McCandless will remain removed from ministry unless and until he is fully cleared of the allegations by all the appropriate civil, legal and ecclesiastical authorities.
“The diocese remains steadfast in its commitment to the protection of children, the safety of our communities and the pastoral care of survivors. We are devastated for all involved and ask for your prayers during this difficult time.”
The KBI is accepting tips from anyone with information related to the investigation of McCandless. The Sedgwick County fugitive warrant unit assisted with the arrest.