Former Anglican dean jailed over child sexual assault

Graeme Lawrence is the second most senior churchman in Australia to find himself convicted of child sexual abuse.

Former Dean of Newcastle's Anglican Diocese, Graeme Lawrence. Source: AAP

Former Anglican dean of Newcastle Graeme Lawrence has been jailed for eight years for sexually abusing a 15-year-old boy in 1991.

Newcastle District Court judge Tim Gartelmann on Thursday jailed Lawrence, 77, for eight years with a minimum of four-and-a-half years after finding him guilty following a judge-alone trial of aggravated sexual assault and aggravated indecent assault.

Graeme Lawrence will spend a minimum of four-and-a-half years behind bars. Source: AAP

Judge Gartelmann said Lawrence had abused his position of trust in the church to commit the offences.

"The victim and his mother must have trusted him because he was the dean," the judge said.

"This significantly aggravates the offences."

MORE TO COME

Those seeking information or support relating to child sexual assault can contact Bravehearts on 1800 272 831 or Blue Knot on 1300 657 380. Lifeline is available 24 hours a day on 13 11 14.