Ex-Broome bishop Christopher Saunders faces more historical sexual abuse charges

One of Australia’s highest-ranking Catholics to face prosecution over historical sexual abuse is facing additional charges.

Following the acquittal of Cardinal George Pell, Australia’s highest ranking Catholic to be prosecuted over historical sexual abuse allegations faces six additional charges for the alleged rape of a boy aged under 13.

The former bishop of Broome, Christopher Saunders, 75, was arrested by child abuse squad detectives on Sunday and charged with the sexual penetration of a child aged under 13, common assault and indecent dealings of a child aged under 13.

Police allege Mr Saunders indecently assaulted the boy between 2009 and 2010.

Police have laid additional charges against former Catholic bishop Christopher Saunders. Picture: Supplied

Mr Saunders was first charged in February last year over 26 offences involving a teenage boy that allegedly took place in Broome, Kununurra, and Kalumburu between 2008 and 2013.

He pleaded not guilty in the Broome Magistrates Court in September to multiple counts of unlawful and indecent assault, sexual penetration without consent and a person in authority indecently dealing with a child.

He was also charged in April and December with indecently assaulting young men aged in their 20s and is yet to enter any pleas.

He faces 32 charges related to historical sexual abuse allegations. Picture: ABC

The former bishop now faces 32 charges over historical sexual abuse allegations and seven firearm charges.

Mr Saunders was ordained as a priest in 1976 and moved to the Kimberley region before becoming a bishop in 1996.

He quit in August 2021 but has kept his title and entitlements.

A police spokesman said the investigation remained ongoing and urged anyone with information to contact police.

Bishop Tim Norton said the Catholic Diocese of Broome would continue to offer full transparency and co-operation with WA Police.

“Accordingly, no further comment will be made regarding the former bishop of Broome until such time as all legal proceedings are concluded,” Bishop Norton said.

“The protection of children and adults at risk remains our highest priority.

“We encourage anyone who has experienced abuse, or suspects abuse within the community, to come forward and report it to police.”

Mr Saunders is due to appear in the Broome Magistrates Court on February 3.

Originally published as Ex-Broome bishop Christopher Saunders faces more historical sexual abuse charges