A man who actively targeted children on social media and gaming platforms has been charged with hundreds of child-abuse related offences against 459 victims in Australia and 15 other countries, Queensland police have said.
The 27-year-old, who has been in custody since last February, has been charged with 596 offences after police found more than 23,000 videos and images of the alleged abuse on his electronic devices.
Detective Acting Chief Superintendent Denzil Clark of Queensland Police noted that the volume of images and videos meant the process of identification took time, skill and commitment. Of the identified victims, 360 have been verified while investigations continue.
More than 200 of the victims were in Australia, primarily boys aged between seven and 15, with police collaborating with international partners to ensure appropriate support for all victims.
Clark warned of an increasing prevalence of children being groomed, coerced, or threatened into taking and sending sexual images of themselves, often through popular apps, games, and social media sites. He emphasized the significant trauma this creates for children.
Authorities are still working to identify other suspects, as the man allegedly created multiple online profiles posing as both men and women, grooming children from 2018 to 2025.
The nature of the charges includes producing child abuse material through carriage services, procuring minors for sexual activities, and engaging in sexual interactions with underage individuals using these services.
The man is expected to appear in court on Thursday.
