Martial arts instructor charged over sexual abuse of student, NSW

A martial arts instructor has been charged following an investigation into the alleged grooming and sexual abuse of a teenage girl he was coaching.

Earlier this week, detectives from the State Crime Command’s Child Abuse and Sex Crimes Squad commenced an investigation following reports a 15-year-old girl had been groomed and sexually abused by a man who was known to her.

Following inquiries, detectives, with assistance from Northern Beaches Police Area Command, arrested a 35-year-old man at a home at Seaforth about 8.30am yesterday (Wednesday 27 May 2020).

Shortly after, officers executed a crime scene warrant at the home and seized electronic devices and documentation.

The man was taken to Manly Police Station and charged with seven offences including;

  • groom child for unlawful sexual activity,
  • supply prohibited drug (small quantity to child under 16 years by adult),
  • intentionally sexually touch child between 10 and 16 years (x2), and
  • aggravated sexual intercourse child between 14 and 16 years (x3).

Police will allege in court that the man groomed and sexually abused the girl between March and May this year at locations in Sydney’s north.

It will be further alleged that the man gave the girl prohibited drugs on at least one occasion before sexually abusing her.

The man was refused bail and appeared at Parramatta Local Court yesterday, where he was formally refused bail to reappear at the same court today (Thursday 28 May 2020).

Investigations are continuing.

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.

Information you provide will be treated in the strictest of confidence. People should not report crime information via our Facebook and Twitter pages.

/Public Release. View in full here.