Christopher Alan Saunders, the former Catholic bishop of Broome, has been sentenced to six years and six months in prison for sexually abusing two young Aboriginal men between 2008 and 2019. The 76-year-old was convicted on Wednesday in the West Australian District Court of 13 sexual offences, including one count of sexual penetration without consent and twelve charges of unlawful and indecent assault. He is eligible for parole after serving four years and six months.

Saunders, who was ordained as Broome’s second bishop in 1996, presided over 13 schools and nine parishes before stepping down in 2020 amid allegations of sexual abuse. Pope Francis accepted his resignation in 2021. If the conviction stands on appeal, Saunders would be the highest-ranking Catholic clergy member in Australia to be convicted of sexual abuse during his active service.

The former bishop was acquitted of six additional charges, which included indecent dealings with a child under his authority and unlawful assault, as well as seven other similar counts dismissed due to insufficient evidence. The court backdated his sentence to August, when he was convicted and taken into custody.

Prosecutors described Saunders as having a sexual interest in young Aboriginal men, exploiting his position by hosting alcohol-fueled parties at church-owned properties to access victims. According to the prosecution, these gatherings served as opportunities for Saunders to carry out the assaults. The victims identified him as “Brother B.”

A church investigation into Saunders’ conduct was paused once the police began their inquiry but is expected to resume now that the criminal trial has concluded. Archbishop Timothy Costelloe stated that the investigation’s results would influence future decisions in Rome regarding Saunders’ standing within the Catholic Church. He also acknowledged the jury’s verdict addressed crimes that violated the dignity and trust of the victims and survivors.

Costelloe praised the courage and resilience of the victims, survivors, and witnesses who participated in the lengthy court process. The legal proceedings and church investigation highlight ongoing concerns over abuse within religious institutions, especially involving vulnerable Indigenous communities.