Ex-Priest Accused of Sex Assaults Blamed God

By Sarah Farnsworth
ABC News
November 14, 2012

http://www.abc.net.au/news/2012-11-14/court-told-accused-priest-blamed-god-for-sexual-assaults/4371714?section=vic

[with video]

The Melbourne Magistrates Court has heard a former Catholic priest accused of abusing boys told another priest "you know what we do here".

David Rapson was a former teacher and vice-principal at the Salesian College Rupertswood in Sunbury, north of Melbourne, when it is alleged he abused seven boys.

In a statement tendered in court at a committal hearing, an alleged victim said he had spent the night in the infirmary in the late 1970s when several boys were brought in.

"I remember thinking how strange it was that everyone got sick at the same time," he said.

The court heard Rapson then gave the boys a hot drink, forcing it on them if they refused.

"I remember the Milo tasted really strong and acrid," the alleged victim testified.

"I remember waking up and feeling groggy."

The court heard Rapson then went around the room and sexually abused the boys in their beds.

The alleged victim said at one point that another priest, Father Frank Klepp, entered the room.

The alleged victim told the court he heard Father Klepp ask "what are you doing?".

Rapson allegedly replied: "You know what we do here."

Rapson blamed God when he was told to resist the temptation.

"God made us this way and it's his fault," he said.

"You're one to talk, you're the same as me."

Rapson is facing 11 charges of abuse, including one count of rape.

The offences are said to have taken place between 1973 and 1990.