Two Gladstone Brothers Face Court Over Child Abuse Material Charges
Two brothers from Gladstone in Central Queensland have been charged with multiple offences related to child abuse material following a detailed investigation by the Australian Federal Police. The men, aged 26 and 19, were identified after authorities received a critical report from overseas.
International Tip-Off Triggers Local Investigation
The investigation began when the AFP received a report from the United States National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. This report concerned an online user who was allegedly uploading child abuse material on various social media platforms. This international collaboration provided the initial leads that directed police attention to Central Queensland.
Police Raid and Initial Arrests
On November 11, police executed a search warrant at a residence in New Auckland. During this operation, officers located and seized several electronic devices, including two mobile phones. A preliminary examination of the 26-year-old brother's devices allegedly identified child abuse material.
As a result, he was immediately arrested and charged with multiple offences. These charges include two counts of possessing or controlling child abuse material obtained or accessed using a carriage service. At the time of the initial warrant execution, no charges were laid against the 19-year-old brother.
Follow-Up Investigation Leads to Second Arrest
However, police conducted a follow-up check of the younger brother's social media accounts. This subsequent investigation allegedly revealed that he had sent child abuse material to another person via an online chat account. Based on this evidence, he was arrested on January 15 and charged with multiple offences.
His charges include two counts of transmitting child abuse material using a carriage service. It is important to note that each of these offences carries a maximum penalty of 15 years' imprisonment, highlighting the serious nature of the allegations.
Court Proceedings and Police Warning
Both men are scheduled to face the Gladstone Magistrates Court on Friday. AFP Detective Acting Superintendent Kurt Wesche issued a stern warning to potential online offenders in light of this case.
"Anyone who views child abuse material is committing a crime," he stated emphatically. "Our message to online offenders has not changed – if you procure, access, or transmit child abuse material, you will be found, arrested and prosecuted."
He further emphasised the AFP's commitment to protecting children, saying, "Children are not commodities to be used for the abhorrent gratification of sexual predators, and we will continue to target those who seek to exploit children."
Support Services Available
For anyone impacted by sexual assault, domestic violence, or family violence, support is available. You can call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732 or visit their website for assistance. In emergency situations, always call 000 immediately for urgent help.
