Detectives from the State Crime Command's Child Abuse and Sex Crimes Squad have charged a man following an investigation into alleged child abuse material.
In March 2023, 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, about 7.20am on Wednesday 17 May 2023, police executed a search warrant at an address on Steenson Street at Edmondson Park.
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 Thursday 18 May 2023, where he was granted strict conditional bail to appear in Liverpool Local Court on Wednesday 28 June 2023.
Following further extensive inquiries, about 2pm yesterday (Wednesday 24 May 2023), strike force detectives attended a business on Yarrunga Street 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 do sexual act with child
The man was refused bail to appear before Liverpool Local Court today (Thursday 25 May 2023).
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.
Anyone with information that may assist Strike Force Trawler 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.
