Former Bishop Saunders guilty of sexual assault, faces sentencing
Christopher Saunders, 76, was convicted of one sexual penetration charge and 12 assault counts involving young men.
Christopher Saunders, the former Bishop of Broome, was found guilty by a jury. He was guilty of one count of sexual penetration without consent and 12 counts of unlawful and indecent assault.
He now faces sentencing. Secret video footage was released by the court.
It showed Saunders grooming a young man. This was key evidence for his conviction.
Saunders was secretly recorded over a long time. His victims were about 40 years younger than him.
Before his sentencing hearing on Monday, Saunders had spent more than five weeks in maximum security prison. The prosecution said Saunders abused his position of power.
His lawyer argued against a harsh sentence. His lawyer said Saunders had lost his standing in the community.
- Four-year 7NEWS investigation
- Investigation timeline
- More than five weeks in maximum security
- Prison time
Why it mattersThe case holds a senior religious leader responsible for serious sexual crimes. It shows what happens when someone in power abuses that power.
AustraliaThe conviction signals accountability in Australian religious institutions for serious sexual abuse crimes.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 3 d ago
