Police have charged a 41-year-old man with sexual offences against a child on the Sunshine Coast in 2023 and against another child between 2009 and 2018 in north Brisbane.
After an extensive investigation, he was arrested on April 5 and charged with seven counts of rape and five counts of indecent treatment of children under 16.
He has been remanded in custody and is due to appear in the Maroochydore Magistrates Court on July 19.
Police have also charged a 49-year-old Mango Hill woman for allegedly failing to report child sexual offences.
Police will allege the woman was aware of the sexual offences allegedly being committed by the 41-year-old man but did not report it to police.
The woman was charged on July 2 with one count of failure to report belief of child sexual offence committed in relation to child.
She is due to appear in the Maroochydore Magistrates Court on July 26.
Sunshine Coast Child Protection Investigation Unit officer in charge Detective Senior Sergeant Kerri Della-Vedova said offences against children were one of the most horrendous crimes as they target the most vulnerable in our community.
“Offences against children are a priority for the Queensland Police Service and officers work hard to detect and identify those responsible for these vile acts and bring them to justice before the court,” Detective Senior Sergeant Della-Vedova said.
“The community can assist us with reporting these offences so we can help and protect victims of these heinous crimes.
“This is a reminder of recent legislation that reporting of sexual offences to children is mandatory, and not doing so is a criminal offence.
“Reporting offences, as soon as you become aware of it, limits the possibility of further offending against that child, allows police to intervene and begin investigations.
“However, we do understand that this is a complex and challenging issue and sometimes circumstances may impact the ability to safely report.
“Therefore, we do take each case into consideration before commencing a prosecution.
“It may not be safe or practicable to confront it directly, so by reporting it, you give police the opportunity to step in.
“It is really important for us to educate the community about mandatory reporting of offences against a child, regardless of the relationship, or lack of, that you have with the child.
“Protecting our children is everyone’s responsibility.”
If you believe a child is in immediate danger or a life-threatening situation call triple-0 immediately.
If you have serious concerns relating to the sexual abuse of a child contact Policelink or phone 131 444.
You can also report it in person by visiting a police station and, if needed, ask to speak about a private matter.
If you’ve experienced sexual assault, it is not your fault and you are not alone. There are multiple ways to report what has happened to you depending on your situation.
There are also alternative reporting options available depending on your situation.
For confidential information, counselling and support, call the statewide Sexual Assault Helpline on 1800 010 120 or 1800 RESPECT for 24-hour help.
Scroll down to SUBSCRIBE for our FREE news feed, direct to your inbox daily.
