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The 74-year-old individual was apprehended in Broome on Wednesday following concurrent inquiries conducted by the Western Australian Police and the Pope. Despite previous denials of the allegations, Mr. Saunders was denied bail and is set to appear in court to answer to 19 charges on Thursday.
As one of the highest-ranking Catholics to be accused of such offenses, he stands accused of multiple rapes and other criminal acts. While the accusations initially surfaced in 2020, the investigations concluded without charges being filed. In the same year, he resigned from his role as the Bishop of Broome, yet retains his status as an emeritus bishop.
It is important to note that only the Pope possesses the authority to appoint or remove a bishop.
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