Accused sex offender, 89, faces Vic court

An elderly, ailing Lawrence Fitzpatrick, accused of 99 historical sex offences during the 1970s, has stood unsteadily on his feet to face a Melbourne court.

The 89-year-old was earlier charged with 103 offences including indecent assault, buggery, gross indecency, unlawful imprisonment and assault.

However, on Friday at Melbourne Magistrates' Court four indecent assault charges were withdrawn, reducing the total to 99.

It is alleged Fitzpatrick abused the victims, some of whom were under 14, at Sale, Briagolong, Stratford and Rosedale between 1971 and 1976.

Magistrate Johanna Metcalf granted permission for witnesses and complainants involved in upcoming cross-examination to give evidence remotely, rather than in court.

Currently on bail, Fitzpatrick struggled to stand in the public gallery when his case was called and his lawyer asked for him to remain there rather than moving to the front row, as is customary.

He was charged by the Sano Taskforce, which was set up to investigate historical and new allegations of child sex abuse involving religious and non-government organisations.

The case will return at a later date.