A Woy Woy man reappeared in court on March 9 charged by Strike Force Trawler detectives following an investigation into alleged online grooming.
In December last year, detectives from the Child Abuse and Sex Crime Squad’s Child Exploitation Internet Unit (CEIU) began engaging online with the man.
Police alleged in court that the man believed he was speaking with a 14-year-old girl and engaged in sexually explicit conversations.
It was further alleged that the man arranged to meet the girl for the purpose of a sexual encounter.
Following extensive investigations, strike force detectives arrested the 38-year-old man in Woy Woy at about 9.30am on January 14.
He was taken to Gosford Police Station and charged with use carriage service to groom under 16 years for sex.
He appeared at Gosford Local Court the same day, where he was granted strict conditional bail to reappear at the same court on March 9.
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 comprises 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.
Source:
Media release, Mar 8
NSW Police media