Detectives from Mackay Child Protection and Investigation Unit have charged a 50-year-old man in relation to the supply of dangerous drugs and sexual assault of a child.
On January 15th, Police executed a search warrant at a Mackay Harbour address, where the 50-year-old man was taken into custody.
A quantity of dangerous drugs, drug utensils and electronic devices were seized from the address. It will be alleged by Police that the man supplied dangerous drugs to a girl under the age of 16 and sexually assaulted her.
It will be further alleged the man groomed a second girl under the age of 16 with the intent to engage in a sexual act, Queensland Police said in a statement.
“Following extensive investigations including examination of devices seized, it will be alleged the man further supplied dangerous drugs to two other children,” Police said.
Detectives have charged the 50-year-old with 22 offences including six counts of supplying dangerous drugs to minor under 16 years, three counts each of rape and possess drug utensils, two counts each of grooming child under 16 years – facilitate procurement of child to engage in sexual act, use internet to procure children under 16, possess dangerous drugs, possess drug utensils and one count each of use carriage service to groom another person to make it easier to procure persons under 16 years of age, possess anything used in the commission of a crime, indecent treatment of child under 16 (procure to commit) and contravene order about information necessary to access information stored electronically.
He is expected to re-appear before Mackay Magistrates Court today.
Officer in Charge of Mackay CPIU Acting Senior Sergeant Glenn Burley said Police were committed to protecting children from harm and holding perpetrators to account.
“Offences against children are some of the most despicable, and we commend those who have come forward in this case for their bravery,” Det A/Senior Sergeant Burley said.
“If you or someone you know has experienced sexual violence, it is never your fault, and you are not alone. We encourage you to come forward, there are multiple reporting and support options available to you.
“Anyone who may have any further information in relation to this matter is urged to contact police.”
If there’s an immediate danger, call Triple Zero (000). You can also report online via: https://forms.police.qld.gov.au/launch/SexualAssault, over the phone or face to face at a police station.
For confidential information, counselling and support, call the State-wide Sexual Assault Helpline on 1800 010 120 or 1800 RESPECT for 24-hour help.
