Argos arrest, Brisbane
Detectives from Argos have charged a 37-year-old man following investigations into a range of alleged online child grooming offences.
The man was arrested yesterday afternoon as he arrived at the Brisbane International Airport.
Detectives will allege the man engaged in sexually explicit communications with an Argos detective posing as a 14-year-old girl.
It will be further alleged that the offences occurred between July 4 and 5 and further forensic examination will be conducted on portable devices seized upon his arrival.
The man has been charged with one count of using the internet to procure a child under 16 years of age.
He is expected to appear at the Brisbane Magistrates Court this morning.
Acting Detective Superintendent Garry Watts said this was a timely reminder to all parents to be vigilant with electronic devices used by their children and ensure that they monitor their children’s online activities.
Detective Inspector Jon Rouse said this investigation highlights the borderless nature and the threat that the internet poses.
“Child sex offenders will go to extraordinary lengths to gain access to children,” Detective Inspector Rouse said.
“Investigators at Argos will continue to target people utilising online platforms to target people looking to engage with young children.”
Vision of the man’s arrest can be downloaded below –
If you have information for police, contact Policelink by providing information using the online suspicious activity form 24hrs per day at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting.
Report crime information anonymously via Crime Stoppers. Call 1800 333 000 or report online at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au.
