Photographer Faces Serious Charges After Social Media Meeting
A 57-year-old photographer is facing multiple serious charges in Canberra after allegedly sexually assaulting a woman he initially contacted through social media to offer photography services. The man, who cannot be named for legal reasons, has been charged with reckless sexual intercourse without consent, acts of indecency without consent, and threatening to distribute intimate images.
Timeline of Alleged Assaults and Investigation
Police documents indicate the man first began communicating with the woman in August 2019 after connecting on a social media platform where he offered his professional photography services. According to authorities, the alleged assaults occurred during multiple meetings between the two individuals in 2019 and 2020.
The case took a significant turn when the alleged victim reported the incidents to police in July 2020. However, following an initial investigation, no charges were laid at that time. The matter was subsequently reopened as part of the ACT police response to a broader review into how sexual assault cases are handled.
Court Proceedings and Support Services
With the continued support of the alleged victim, the 57-year-old man was officially issued with a summons to appear before the ACT Magistrates Court on Thursday, November 20, 2025. This development comes more than five years after the initial alleged offenses took place.
ACT police have reminded the community that people affected by sexual violence can report incidents by attending a police station directly or calling 131 444. For historical sexual assault cases where incidents occurred more than six months ago, victims can also submit reports online through official channels.
Several support services are available for those affected by sexual violence, including the national 1800-RESPECT helpline (1800 737 732), the Canberra Rape Crisis Centre on 6247 2525, and the Sexual Violence Legal Service at 6257 4377.
