Priest on Online Grooming Charge Ordered Away from Kids
A priest has been barred from contacting children after being charged with attempting to meet a teen for sexual activity
Sydney, Australia, Priest, Online Grooming, Child Abuse
Sydney: A priest has found himself in serious trouble. He’s been told to steer clear of kids after allegedly trying to meet up with a young teen boy for some really inappropriate stuff.
This 77-year-old retiree was caught by police who were pretending to be a 14-year-old boy. They nabbed him in Pendle Hill after he shared some disturbing material online.
It all started when Facebook tipped off the police about his actions. They set up a sting operation, and it seems he didn’t think twice before trying to meet up with the “boy” for sexual activity.
Now, he’s under strict bail conditions. He can’t have any contact with kids under 16 and has to stay at least 500 meters away from schools and childcare centers.
Detective Superintendent Jayne Doherty didn’t mince words, calling the situation extremely serious. She emphasized that there’s nothing more grave than offenses against children.
Police are digging through his digital devices to see if there’s more troubling material. So far, he doesn’t have any prior convictions and chose not to speak to the police after getting legal advice.
He appeared in Parramatta Local Court on two charges related to child abuse and is set to return to Burwood court on January 8.
If you or someone you know needs help, there are resources available like 1800 RESPECT and Lifeline.