Investigation into Alleged Abuse by Former Sydney Childcare Worker
Police allege there are 136 victims of the man’s offending, which allegedly took place over a 16-year period.
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Federal Police Contact Families Amid Ongoing Investigation
Australia Federal Police (AFP) have reached out to more than 120 families as part of an investigation into alleged offences committed by a former childcare worker.
The 35-year-old man has been charged with 329 offences, allegedly committed over a 16-year span against 136 victims.
The charges include 162 counts of producing child abuse material, 24 counts of using a child under 14 for the production of child abuse material, and 18 counts of intentionally sexually touching a child under 10 years old.
Details of the Investigation and Arrest
The AFP initiated the investigation in June last year following a report concerning an online user uploading a file depicting child abuse.
Authorities linked the man to the alleged activities and executed a search warrant in Glossodia, located in Sydney’s north-west.
The man was arrested and charged in July, and his working with children accreditation was suspended.
Scope of the Offences and Locations Involved
The man worked at or attended 62 early childhood education facilities, primarily in Sydney’s north-west.
Police allege he committed multiple offences against children at five facilities, which include four childcare centres and his own private business.
Police Statement and Support for Victims
AFP acting commander Luke Needham provided further insight into the investigation.
“Operation Moonbi has spanned 12 months and involved the analysis of 2.4 million electronic files, 12 search warrants and countless hours trying to uncover the scale of the man’s alleged offending,” Needham said.
“We urge any victim-survivors to seek support or talk to a trusted person if today’s news has caused distress.”
He also noted that police have been in contact with 121 families, both in Australia and internationally, whose children have been positively identified as depicted in child abuse material.
