Victorian man to face court for allegedly possessing child abuse material
A 21-year-old Victorian man is due to face Melbourne Magistrate’s Court today (Friday 23 April, 2021), charged by the Victorian Joint Anti Child Exploitation Team (JACET) with possessing child abuse material.
The investigation began in November 2020 after the Australian Federal Police received a report regarding an individual suspected to be in possession of child abuse material.
The man was interviewed by members of the VIC JACET, which comprises AFP and Victoria Police officers, at the AFP’s Melbourne Headquarters on Wednesday 21 April, 2021.
The 21-year-old was arrested and charged with possessing child abuse material contrary to section 474.22A(1) of the Criminal Code Act 1995 (Cth).
The maximum penalty for this offence is 15 years’ imprisonment.
He was granted bail to appear before the Melbourne Magistrates Court for his first appearance today.
AFP Commander Investigations Todd Hunter said the AFP, together with its state and territory law enforcement partners, remain committed to protecting our community’s most vulnerable – our children.
“Anyone who views this material is harming a child, and helping to prop up a vile industry that will abuse more children to satisfy the demand,” he said.
Members of the public who have any information about people involved in child abuse and exploitation are urged to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or report online at www.accce.gov.au/report.
If you or someone you know are impacted by child sexual abuse and online exploitation there are support services available, visit the ACCCE to learn more.
Advice and support for parents and carers about how they can help protect children online can be found at ThinkUKnow.
Note to media:
Use of term ‘CHILD ABUSE’ MATERIAL NOT ‘CHILD PORNOGRAPHY’
The correct legal term is Child Abuse Material – the move to this wording was among amendments to Commonwealth legislation in 2019 to more accurately reflect the gravity of the crimes and the harm inflicted on victims.
Use of the phrase "child pornography" is inaccurate and benefits child sex abusers because it:
- indicates legitimacy and compliance on the part of the victim and therefore legality on the part of the abuser; and
- conjures images of children posing in 'provocative' positions, rather than suffering horrific abuse.
Every photograph or video captures an actual situation where a child has been abused.
Media enquiries
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