Did scandals and early structures disprove apostolic succession?

Abuses do not nullify office, just as David’s sins did not cancel his kingship. Scripture shows succession of office (Acts 1:20 citing Ps 109:8) and uses the same term for the bishop’s office (1 Tim 3:1). The Fathers and councils attest to episcopal succession and the primacy of Rome (e.g., Augustine, Jerome, Athanasius; Sardica canons; Ephesus; Chalcedon). Historical anomalies are exceptions, not the rule. The continuous line and magisterial practice witness to real succession.