The man charged with the heinous murder of nine-year-old Charlise Mutten, whose body was found in a barrel near the Colo River in January, has today been charged with further offences including possession of child abuse material.
In a statement, NSW Police said Homicide Squad detectives had charged 31-year-old Justin Stein with a number of firearms related offences and two count of possess child abuse material for unrelated matter.
“Strike Force Buena was established by Blue Mountains Police Area Command and the State Crime Command’s Homicide Squad, to investigate the disappearance of a nine-year-old girl after she was reported missing from Mt Wilson on Friday 14 January 2022,” Police said.
Police believe Stein fatally shot the Tweed Heads Public School student on January 11th or 12th, while she was visiting her mother during the school holidays.
In February, a police search of bushland near Mt Wilson led to the discovery of two firearms and ammunition. The items were seized and underwent forensic examination.
“Following inquiries, Homicide detectives attended a correctional facility in Silverwater today and arrested the 31-year-old man,” Police said.
“He was charged with two counts of possess unregistered firearm, two counts of possess unauthorised firearm, possess ammunition without licence/permit, and aggravated break and enter in company.
“Additionally, he was charged with two counts of possess child abuse material for unrelated matters.”
Stein is due to appear before Penrith Local Court tomorrow.
