Sex Crimes Squad detectives have charged a 38 year old Armidale man following an investigation into the alleged possession of child abuse material.
Last year, detectives from the State Crime Command’s Sex Crimes Squad’s Child Exploitation Internet Unit began investigating a man allegedly utilising a peer-to-peer file sharing program to share images deemed to be child abuse material.
Following extensive inquiries, strike force detectives – with the assistance of officers attached to New England Police District – executed a Commonwealth search warrant at an Armidale property on Wednesday morning, where they arrested the accused.
A number of items were seized, including a computer and other electronic devices, which will undergo further forensic examination.
He was taken to Armidale Police Station and charged with two counts of possess child abuse material, and one count each of use carriage service to access child abuse material, and person possesses bestiality material.
The man was granted conditional bail to appear at Armidale Local Court on Monday 6 February 2023.
State Crime Command’s Sex Crimes Squad Commander, Detective Superintendent Jayne Doherty, said parents and carers need to speak to young people about the dangers associated with online activity, and ensure they feel comfortable to tell an adult if something’s not right.
“If you or your child ever come across any concerning material online, we would encourage you to contact local police immediately,” Det Supt Jayne Doherty said.
“We have specialist officers that investigate the sexual exploitation of children online and via telecommunication systems, and we can only help if the incidents are reported.”
Anyone with concerns about suspected child abuse or exploitation should call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or use the Crime Stoppers online reporting page: https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au.
Have something to say about this story? Submit your own opinion piece, or quick word, to The Net.