Former senior WA Catholic bishop awaits sentencing after conviction for assault
Former Bishop Christopher Alan Saunders, the most senior Catholic cleric in northern Western Australia, was found guilty of multiple sexual offences against two Aboriginal men and will be sentenced in October.
In a Western Australian District Court, former Bishop Christopher Alan Saunders was convicted on 13 counts, including unlawful assault and non-consensual penetration, involving two Aboriginal men from the Kimberley region. The three-week trial uncovered a pattern of grooming, with Saunders allegedly using church money and properties to host alcohol-heavy “shirts-off” parties. Prosecutor Adam Ebell emphasized aggravating circumstances such as the 42- and 44-year age differences, Saunders’ senior clerical role, breach of trust and the ongoing nature of the abuse.
Defence lawyer Tony Hager maintained Saunders’ acceptance of the verdict but asserted his innocence, describing the rape as a lower-mid seriousness offence without prolonged violence. Judge Martin Flynn questioned the relevance of character references, noting that one victim had been employed by Saunders. Sentencing is scheduled for October 7, following submissions from both sides.
Why it matters
The case highlights abuse of religious authority and systemic failures in protecting vulnerable Indigenous communities.
In this story
