A man will face court today charged following an investigation by Child Abuse and Sex Crimes Squad detectives into alleged child sexual offences committed against a teenage girl.
In September, police received reports that a 26-year-old man had met with a 14-year-old girl for multiple sexual encounters after connecting with her through social media.
The matter was referred to the State Crime Command’s Child Abuse and Sex Crimes Squad, who commenced an investigation.
Following extensive inquiries, detectives executed a crime scene warrant at a home on Cubitt Crescent, Quakers Hill, about 7.30am today (Tuesday 2 November 2021).
During a subsequent search of the home, police seized a vehicle and an electronic device which will undergo further forensic examination.
He was taken to Riverstone Police Station and charged with seven offences, including possess child abuse material and six counts of have sexual intercourse with child older than 14 and less than 16 years old.
Police will allege in court that the man groomed the girl through social media before sexually abusing her on multiple occasions in August 2021.
He was refused bail to appear at Blacktown Local Court today (Tuesday 2 November 2021).
Child Abuse and Sex Crimes Squad Commander, Detective Acting Superintendent Adam Powderly, said it is crucial children only communicate with those who they know when using social media.
“Children should always be reminded that meeting with people who they have only communicated with in an online environment, puts them at extreme risk,” Det A/Supt Powderly said.
“Never provide personal details to others you do not know when using social media, and if you’re making plans to meet in person – consider if you really know and trust the person you are meeting.
“Unfortunately, the online environment is used by sexual predators to target children, therefore it is imperative that all young people know how to protect themselves from harm,” Det A/Supt Powderly said.
More information can be accessed via the eSafety website: https://www.esafety.gov.au/
Educational packages for parents and children are available from ThinkUKnow, a multi-agency program designed to educate and promote cyber safety: https://www.thinkuknow.org.au/
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.
Anyone with information that may assist investigators is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au. Information is treated in strict confidence. The public is reminded not to report information via NSW Police social media pages.
