URGENT UPDATE: In a shocking verdict, Naotunne Vijitha, the head monk of a prominent Buddhist temple, has been found guilty of sexually abusing children as young as four. The verdict, delivered on October 26 in Melbourne, follows a grueling four-week trial that has left the community reeling.
Prosecutors presented compelling evidence against the 70-year-old monk, who was accused of committing 19 historical child sexual offences against six girls aged between four and twelve. The abuse reportedly occurred inside his temple quarters, a prayer room, and during Sunday school sessions at the Dhamma Sarana Buddhist Temple in Springvale and later in Keysborough after the temple’s relocation in 2000.
The jury, after deliberating since October 23, returned a guilty verdict on 17 of the 19 charges against Vijitha. He was acquitted on one charge of indecent assault involving a child under 16, while discussions continue regarding another indecent act charge.
During the trial, the now-adult victims bravely testified, recounting their harrowing experiences of abuse. Their relatives and friends also provided corroborating evidence, which played a crucial role in the prosecution’s case. Defense barrister Nick Papas KC urged jurors to consider the time elapsed since the allegations, asserting that some claims stretched “any grounds of credulity.”
Judge Pardeep Tiwana instructed the jury that they could render a majority verdict for the remaining indecent act charge, further underscoring the urgency and significance of the case. The jury will reconvene on October 27 to continue their deliberations.
This verdict marks a pivotal moment not only for the victims but also for the wider community, highlighting the urgent need for accountability in religious institutions. As this story develops, many are left to grapple with the implications of such a grave violation of trust within a revered community leader.
Stay tuned for further updates as this case unfolds, and the community seeks justice for those affected.
