File image.
Strike Force Trawler detectives have charged a man following an investigation into online child exploitation on the state’s Central Coast.
In September this year, detectives from the Child Abuse and Sex Crime Squad’s Child Exploitation Internet Unit (CEIU) began engaging online with a man from the state’s Central Coast.
Police will allege in court that the man believed he was speaking with the 36-year-old mother of a nine-year-old girl and engaged in sexually explicit conversations about acts he wished to perform on the child and sent sexually explicit material.
“Following extensive investigations, strike force detectives arrested a 55-year-old man at a home near The Entrance about 10am on November 20,” said NSW Police in a statement.
“A search warrant was subsequently executed at the home, where detectives seized mobile phones, tablet and several electronic storage devices.”
The man was taken to Wyong Police Station and charged with incite to commit sexual intercourse with child under the age of 10 years and use carriage service transmit/publish/promote child abuse.
He appeared at Wyong Local Court the same day, where he was formally refused bail to reappear at the same court in February.
“Strike Force Trawler is an ongoing investigation by the CEIU into the sexual abuse and exploitation of children facilitated through the internet and related telecommunications devices.”
“Regular covert online investigations are conducted by the CEIU; and police in NSW work closely with their law-enforcement colleagues interstate and overseas.
“The Child Abuse and Sex Crimes Squad is comprised of detectives who are specially trained to investigate matters against children and adults, including sexual assault, serious physical abuse, and extreme cases of neglect.”
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.
