AUSTRALIA
Broken Rites
By a Broken Rites researcher (article updated on 18 December 2013)
A former Catholic priest (aged 60 in 2013), who is charged with sexual offences against children in towns (including Moree and Armidale) in northern New South Wales, appeared in Armidale Local Court again on 18 December 2013 for an administrative procedure. The court extended his bail. The prosecutors and the defence have reached “substantial agreement” in relation to many of the facts regarding the case and the defence team is expected to submit a written plea-offer, the court has been told.
The ex-priest is charged with a total of 138 sexual offences against boys and girls.
These charges relate only to those alleged victims who have spoken to a special team of detectives (named Strike Force Glenroe) in the NSW Police. The investigation is continuing and detectives are prepared to hear from any more persons who have information about this matter.
The court decided to continue (until further notice) a non-publication order regarding the ex-priest’s name and residential details. This non-publication order can be reviewed at an approprite stage in the prosecution process.
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