Former Catholic bishop accused of hosting alcohol-fuelled parties to sexually abuse Aboriginal men found guilty
Summary
Christopher Alan Saunders, a former Catholic bishop in Broome, Western Australia, was found guilty of 13 sex offences involving two young Aboriginal men. The crimes occurred between 2008 and 2019 and included sexual assault and one count of sexual penetration without consent.Key Facts
- Saunders was the bishop of Broome from 1996 until he stepped aside in 2020 after abuse claims surfaced.
- He was found guilty by a jury in the West Australian district court.
- The offences happened at alcohol-fueled parties Saunders hosted on church property.
- Saunders targeted young Aboriginal men, using his position to exploit them.
- The main victim was groomed from age 16 through regular visits involving alcohol and sexual abuse.
- Saunders denied the charges.
- Some charges were dropped mid-trial due to lack of evidence.
- He would be the highest-ranking Catholic clergyman in Australia convicted of sexual abuse unless he successfully appeals.
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