News

Today, 71-year William Edwin Steele appeared in the Perth Magistrates Court charged with a number of historic child sex offences involving 4 victims between the years of 1963 and 1989.

The Salvation Army joins with the WA Police in actively encourage anyone who is a victim of this alleged perpetrator to contact police as a matter of urgency.

Salvation Army spokesperson Dr Bruce Redman says “The Salvation Army is an organisation, who at its heart cares for the most vulnerable members of our community. We are shocked and disturbed to think that someone who has been involved with us is alleged to have committed these horrific crimes against young people.”

The alleged offender has in the past been a member of The Salvation Army and associated with several other churches.

“The crime of child sexual abuse is a dreadful scourge on Australian society. The Salvation Army is active in promoting child safe practices in all areas of social work and church life and any suspected inappropriate dealings with vulnerable people and children are immediately reported to state police,” said Dr Redman.

“The Salvation Army implores anyone with information to contact WA Police or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.”

For further information or media comment please contact:Dr Bruce Redman– Territorial Media DirectorThe Salvation Army – Australia Southern Territory (Vic., SA, Tas., WA & NT)Tel: 03 8878 2448 Mob: 0417 537 950 Email: bruce.redman@aus.salvationarmy.org