The Joint Anti-Child Exploitation Team has arrested and charged a 28-year-old man following an investigation into the alleged grooming of a child and child abuse material offences.
Yesterday, Northern Territory Police and Australian Federal Police members executed a search warrant at a residence in Bakewell after receiving intelligence from the Australian Centre to Counter Child Exploitation (ACCCE).
During the search, police allegedly located evidence across multiple electronic devices, including material relating to child abuse offences on encrypted applications and AI-generated chat platforms.
The 28-year-old man was arrested at the scene and has since been charged with:
- Possess or control child abuse material (S474.22A - CC 1995 (Cth))
- 2 x Use carriage service to transmit child abuse material (S474.22 - CC 1995 (Cth))
- Use carriage service to access child abuse material (S474.22A - CC 1995 (Cth))
- 2 x Produce child abuse material for use through a carriage service (S474.22A - CC 1995 (Cth))
The man has been remanded to appear in Darwin Local Court on 18 August 2026.
NT Police Detective Acting Senior Sergeant Mark Cronin said the investigation was initiated following information received through the ACCCE and international law enforcement partners.
"Police received information alleging the man had been grooming a 13-year-old child online, prompting an immediate investigation by the Joint Anti-Child Exploitation Team."
"Searches of electronic devices allegedly uncovered evidence of child abuse material across encrypted platforms and AI-generated chat applications."
"Offenders cannot hide behind technology or anonymous online platforms. Working alongside our national and international partners, we will continue identifying, investigating and prosecuting those who seek to exploit our children."
AFP Detective Acting Superintendent Pixie Fuhrmeister said the collective strength of the NT JACET and its Commonwealth, State, Territory and international law enforcement partners is critical to protecting children from harm.
"Anyone preying on children online should not think the internet provides them anonymity or protection from real-world consequences. Children deserve safety, dignity and protection - and the AFP and its law enforcement partners remain committed in its pursuit of anyone involved in online child exploitation," Det a/Supt Fuhrmeister said.
