Australian jury convicts former Catholic bishop of sexually abusing 2 men
The jury found Christopher Saunders guilty of abusing two young Aboriginal men after a three-week trial, while acquitting him of six other charges.
- On Thursday, a jury at the West Australian District Court convicted former Broome Bishop Christopher Saunders, 76, of 13 charges of sexual abuse, including unlawful assault and sexual penetration without consent.
- The verdict follows a three-week trial regarding charges of abuse against three Aboriginal men, with alleged incidents occurring in the Kimberley region of Western Australia between 2008 and 2019.
- Prosecutors alleged Saunders, whom one victim called 'Brother B,' groomed young Aboriginal men by hosting alcohol-fueled 'shirts-off' gatherings where he engaged in sexual acts including grabbing their 'privates.'
- Saunders maintained his innocence throughout and is due for sentencing at a later date, making him one of Australia's most senior Catholic clerics convicted of sexual abuse.
- The conviction follows investigations by the Vatican and police, adding to a global scandal where 7% of Australian Catholic priests were accused of abusing children between 1950 and 2010.
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Christopher Saunders was convicted of sexual assault on two indigenous men in 13 cases and is in custody.
A district court in Western Australia has sentenced Christopher Saunders, 76, this Thursday, of 13 crimes for sexual abuse of two Aboriginals when he was Bishop of Broome, including a minor under the age of 16. The crimes committed by the exobispo between 2008 and 2019 include a sexual penetration charge without consent and a dozen charges for sexual assault. He has also been acquitted of six other charges, including two for indecent treatment o…
Australian former bishop Christopher Saunders convicted on multiple counts of sexual abuse
The former bishop was convicted of sexually abusing two men. The diocese apologized to the victims and asked Our Lady Queen of Peace to intercede “on this journey of reconciliation, healing and hope.” [...]
Australian Bishop pledges healing after predecessor’s abuse conviction
Bishop Timothy Norton of Broome Diocese expresses his deep sorrow to victims and survivors following the conviction of Australian Bishop Christopher Saunders, pledging a diocesan path marked by listening, accountability, and hope. Read all
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