Priest jailed for abusing two foster girls in Perth 36 years ago
Former Catholic priest Robert Hickman was sentenced to 2.5 years in jail for sexually abusing two girls aged 11 and 13 in Perth in 1990.
Robert James Hickman, 81, pleaded guilty to sexual penetration of a child and indecent dealing with a child in Perth during a 1990 visit from Sydney. The abuse happened at the victims' home during a dinner with other church members.
Robert James Hickman abused two foster girls there. WA District Court Judge Karen Shepherd described his actions as a breach of trust.
His position made the crimes especially serious, too serious for a suspended sentence. Hickman has a history of sexual offences.
He was previously jailed in New South Wales for similar crimes. He will serve the sentence immediately at Casuarina Prison.
One victim said in a court statement that the abuse had an immeasurable impact on her life.
- 11 and 13 years old at time of abuse
- Victims' ages
- 2.5 years in Casuarina Prison
- Sentence length
Why it mattersA serial offender has finally faced justice decades after his crimes, and victims' statements show the lasting harm of abuse in positions of trust.
AustraliaA high-profile conviction highlights ongoing accountability for historical church-related child abuse in Australia's justice system.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 14 h ago
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