Online child abuse: Strike Force Trawler arrests

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Detectives from the State Crime Command’s Child Abuse and Sex Crimes Squad have arrested and charged one man at Edmondson Park and a second man at Prestons (pictured).

In March of this year detectives attached to the Child Exploitation Internet Unit (CEIU) commenced an investigation under Strike Force Trawler after receiving a referral from AFP regarding alleged online child abuse.

Following inquiries, police executed a search warrant at an address on Steenson Street at Edmondson Park last week.

During a search of the property police located a number of items including a mobile phone, iPad, gel blaster, cannabis and a notebook, which were seized for further forensic examination.

A 36-year-old man was arrested and taken to Penrith Police Station where he was charged with possession of an unauthorised firearm, prohibited drugs and child abuse material.

The man was refused bail and appeared in Penrith Local Court on May 18 where he was granted strict conditional bail to appear in Liverpool Local Court on June 28.

About 2pm yesterday (May 24), strike force detectives attended a business site in Prestons where they arrested a 36-year-old man.

He was taken to Liverpool Police Station where he was charged with nine offences, including six counts of engaging in a sexual act with child under 16 which was filmed for abuse material, use child under 14 years to make child abuse material, and two counts of possessing child abuse material. The man was refused bail to appear before Liverpool Local Court today.

Inquiries under Strike Force Trawler continue.

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.

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.

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.

1 thought on “Online child abuse: Strike Force Trawler arrests”

  1. Sad that another gem of Campbelltown history might disappear. Ron Moore was a true community benefactor who gave a great contribution and pleasure to residents through the cinema and his wonderful hardware store in Minto

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