Australian bishop Christopher Saunders faces grave charges of rape and a series of historical sex offences, including some involving children. The 74-year-old was apprehended in Broome on Wednesday following simultaneous investigations initiated by Western Australia police and the Pope.
Saunders has declared his intention to plead not guilty to all charges leveled against him. This development places him among the highest-ranking Catholic officials to confront such allegations.
The charges against Saunders encompass two counts of rape, 14 counts of unlawful and indecent assault, and three counts of indecently dealing with a child while holding a position of authority. The alleged incidents transpired in the remote West Australian locales of Broome, Kununurra, and the Aboriginal community of Kalumburu between 2008 and 2014.
Released on bail on Thursday, Saunders has been directed to remain at his residence until his forthcoming hearing in June, as reported by the Australian Broadcasting Corporation.
With the exception of the late Cardinal George Pell, who faced charges and subsequent acquittal, Saunders ranks as one of the most prominent Catholic figures in the country to be accused of child sex offences.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the Australian Catholic Bishops Conference pledged full cooperation with law enforcement, acknowledging the severity and distressing nature of the charges against Saunders. Perth Archbishop Timothy Costelloe emphasized the imperative need for thorough investigations into such allegations.
Ordained in 1976, Saunders has dedicated much of his career to serving in the remote Kimberley region of Australia’s north-west, assuming the role of Bishop of Broome in 1996. The vast diocese spans approximately 770,000 square kilometers (297,000 square miles), encompassing some of the nation’s most isolated regions.
Saunders, recognized for his social engagements, advocacy efforts, and leadership in organizing recreational activities for young men, has held considerable influence within the local community. He even has a beer named after him.
While allegations against Saunders were initially raised in 2020, the initial police inquiry concluded without charges being filed. He voluntarily stepped down from his position as Bishop of Broome in 2020 but retains the title of emeritus bishop.
However, following an unprecedented inquiry commissioned by the Pope, authorities commenced a renewed investigation. The inquiry falls under the purview of Vos Estis Lux Mundi, a Latin term meaning “You Are the Light of the World.” These inquiries, introduced in 2019, aim to combat sexual abuse and hold accountable bishops and other high-ranking officials within the Catholic Church. Only a handful of such inquiries have been conducted globally.
Gary P Hernal started college at UP Diliman and received his BA in Economics from San Sebastian College, Manila, and Masters in Information Systems Management from Keller Graduate School of Management of DeVry University in Oak Brook, IL. He has 25 years of copy editing and management experience at Thomson West, a subsidiary of Thomson Reuters.
