AUSTRALIA
ABC News
By Lucy Martin
The South African-based Acts Christian Church is closing its only Australian branch after revelations the leader was involved in a paedophile ring.
Pastor David Volmer is one of eight West Australian men accused of sexual crimes against a 13-year-old girl over a period of two years.
The 41-year-old has pleaded guilty to 12 offences including drugging and raping the girl.
Originally from South Africa, Volmer moved to Australia and set up a branch of the Acts Christian Church in Perth’s northern suburbs in 2013.
Church leader Reverend Peter de Fin, whose grandfather founded the church, said he was shocked by the charges.
“This is the first time we’ve had to deal with such a case,” he said.
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