A priest who allegedly groomed a 14-year-old boy online is set to face court on Christmas Eve, with footage capturing the moment he was arrested in Sydney’s west.
Detectives in a taskforce targeting the sexual abuse and exploitation of children online earlier this month began investigating allegations a religious leader was grooming a teenage boy.
A 77-year-old man was arrested in Pendle Hill about midday on Monday.
A 77-year-old priest allegedly groomed a 14-year-old boy online. Picture: NSW Police
The man is set to front Parramatta Local Court on Christmas Eve. Picture: NSW Police
He was taken to Granville Police Station and charged with use carriage service – procure under 16 years for sex with another and use carriage service to send indecent material to person under 16.
The priest has been refused bail and is set to front Parramatta Local Court on Tuesday.
Detectives due to address the media following the charges later on Tuesday morning.
Investigations under the taskforce remain ongoing.