A registered Australian child sex offender who allegedly fled Australia in his yacht last year in breach of his reporting obligations is scheduled to appear in Perth Magistrates Court today (15 May, 2026).
The AFP charged the North Queensland man, 57, after he arrived at Perth Airport following his deportation from Thailand on 9 May, 2026. He appeared in court the following day (10 May, 2026) and was remanded in custody.
The AFP alleges the man left the country without notifying the Queensland Police Service (QPS) in October, 2025, in direct breach of his Queensland-mandated travel reporting obligations.
The man was arrested by local law enforcement officers in Thailand in April, 2026, and deported to Australia last week.
The AFP charged the man with one count of restrictions on overseas travel by certain registered offenders, contrary to section 271A.1 of the Criminal Code (Cth). The maximum penalty for this offence is five years' imprisonment.
AFP Acting Superintendent Peter Brindal said the AFP worked closely with national and international law enforcement partners and was relentless in efforts to bring criminals to justice.
"The seamless and collaborative relationships with law enforcement partners in Australia and across the globe is critical to combating criminal activity and keeping our communities safe," a/Supt Brindal said.
Queensland Police Service Detective Superintendent Denzil Clark, APM, said the outcome demonstrated the value of strong and trusted domestic and global relationships.
"We will continue to disrupt the movements of child sex offenders, safeguard vulnerable people and ensure those who breach their obligations face justice," Det-Supt Clark said.
Stop and think. A safe journey starts with you.
Every piece of information you provide could be the key to identifying and preventing a threat at our airports. That's why the AFP is asking you to adopt the "See it. Hear it. Report it" approach.
Behaviours to report include:
- Taking photos of security cameras, screening, or perimeter fencing
- Avoiding screening
- Leaving bags unattended
- Loitering
- Concealing identity
- Exhibiting erratic behaviour
If you see it or hear it, report it to Airport Watch at 131 237 (131 AFP).
You can make a difference!
