They generally keep to themselves and stay within their own communities, which is why it’s always interesting to hear about Jehovah’s Witnesses in the spotlight. Standard stuff really.Īlthough not a cult per se, they have been accused of brainwashing by former members and have some archaic views on how women should be treated and how they handle sexual abuse, which is often in-house. Jehovah’s Witnesses don’t celebrate Christian holidays like Easter or Christmas, they have their own version of the Bible – the New World Translation – are very conservative, and believe the end of the world is near. The religion is an offshoot of Christianity with a few major differences. That’s right, there are even famous Jehovah’s Witnesses in the world! People from all walks of life are Jehovah’s Witnesses. While this isn’t entirely untrue, it’s a bit of a stereotypical view of those who practice the religion. Sign up to stay connected.When you think of Jehovah’s Witnesses you probably imagine men in suits knocking on your door trying to spread the word of god. Local news direct to your inboxĪBC Sunshine Coast will deliver a wrap of the week's news, stories and photos every Wednesday. The man was remanded in custody until his next court appearance on October 28. The documents show police intended to issue more warrants and raised the possibility that allowing the man bail could give him an opportunity to delete evidence.Ī day before his arrest the defendant allegedly met with one of the victims and was recorded electronically allegedly admitting to having multiple videos of his sexual offences.
Police allege the defendant admitted at the time of his arrest that he was in the process of buying a property overseas. The accused man's defence barrister, Kelvin Pearson, indicated his client would not be making a bail application at his next court date on October 28.ĭocuments show police had objected to the application due to the defendant's broad network of contacts and financial standing, which they argued created a "high and unacceptable risk" that he would flee the country and interfere with the investigation.ĭocuments show the accused owns up to five properties, including four units, and holds multiple passports. Police allege two of the victims tried to report to religious elders and "were chastised, not believed and ostracised" and accused of being homosexual, before they went to police. Victims of Crime Helpline: 1800 819 817.Lifeline (24-hour Crisis Line): 131 114.Safe Steps Crisis Line (Vic): 1800 015 188.Sexual Assault Crisis Line Victoria: 1800 806 292.Sexual assault and family violence support lines: Police say they have struggled to make enquires and approach some witnesses, noting the "secretive closed ranks" of the church. The documents show that police allege the extent of abuse greatly varied between the victims and that in some cases others were present. Some of the offences are also alleged to have occurred at the man's business premises. Police allege the sex acts against several men, including ex-bible study students, occurred over years at several properties on the Sunshine Coast and in Brisbane. She claimed in the court documents that another of the alleged victims "chose to embrace a lifestyle contrary to bible teachings". She clarified the term meant the group were "formerly members of our church who are now against our church".
In an affidavit tendered to the Maroochydore Magistrates Court in support of the bail application that was later abandoned, the woman also called the people who had made allegations against her husband "apostates". He withdrew his application for bail at Maroochydore Magistrates Court on Wednesday after the hearing was adjourned on Monday.Īccording to court documents obtained by the ABC, several victims were allegedly convinced by the defendant to participate in "energy sessions", which consisted of standing naked in front of a mirror chanting affirmations. The man, who cannot be named for legal reasons, has been charged with more than 50 offences including rape, torture, and procuring sex acts by false pretence.
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