Sex Crimes Squad detectives have charged a Coffs Harbour man for alleged online grooming offences under Strike Force Trawler.
Strike Force Trawler is an ongoing investigation by Sex Crimes Squad's Child Exploitation Internet Unit (CEIU) into the sexual abuse and exploitation of children facilitated through the internet and related telecommunications devices.
Following an interstate referral, strike force detectives commenced an investigation into a 46-year-old Coffs Harbour man, who was allegedly communicating online with – who he believed – was a 13-year-old girl.
Following extensive inquiries, about 6.40am yesterday (Tuesday 23 April 2024), strike force detectives stopped a vehicle on Albany Street in Coffs Harbour and arrested the 46-year-old driver.
The man was taken to Coffs Harbour Police Station where he was charged with use carriage service to groom under 16 years for sex.
He was refused bail and appeared before Coffs Harbour Local Court yesterday.
Investigations under Strike Force Trawler continue.
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.
