The Knox County Sheriff's Office has concluded its investigation into Father Joseph Reed, a priest at St. John Neumann Catholic Church and School, after allegations of boundary violations within the Diocese of Knoxville's Safe Environment Policy emerged, as reported by WVLT News. Reed, who was placed on administrative leave in December, has been cleared with the allegations deemed unsubstantiated by the KCSO.
While the KCSO has closed its case, the Tennessee Department of Children's Services (DCS) continues its inquiry into the matter, keeping the investigation alive on their end, despite KCSO's findings, as 10News confirms. The Diocese of Knoxville had taken steps to remove Fr. Reed from his pastoral responsibilities during the investigations to maintain the integrity of their Safe Environment Policy, emphasizing protection and fair review, which upholds their commitment to the care of their congregation.
According to a letter issued to the parish and detailed by 6 News, Father Michael Maples has been appointed to oversee the pastoral needs of St. John Neumann parish in Reed's absence. The church and school activities continue to run normally while the diocese awaits the state's investigation results before proceeding with its internal review.
Fr. Reed, a Knoxville native, has a history that includes nearly two decades as a monk at Conception Abbey and serving in various capacities at Conception Seminary College, as detailed in his background provided by 10News. His academic journey has taken him through studies in theology at institutions including St. John's Seminary in Minnesota and St. Vincent Seminary in Pennsylvania and his experience with the Sacred Heart Cathedral in Knoxville, before his most recent role at St. John Neumann.
