Mackay man arrested on alleged child grooming charges, more victims likely
A 53-year-old Mackay man allegedly groomed a 12-year-old girl over four months before he was arrested on Sunday, June 24, with police warning other children may have been contacted.
Detective Inspector Brendan Smith said the man was arrested and charged over the alleged grooming, which involved the man sharing child exploitation material with the girl.
The man was charged with grooming a person under 16 years old and will appear in Mackay Magistrates Court on July 10.
“Yesterday’s arrest reinforces the important role of parents and trusted adults play in identifying predatory behaviour targeting our children," Inspector Smith said.
"Investigations to date would suggest the current victim child may not be the only one, accordingly we are seeking assistance from the community to identify other children possibly at risk, particularly in the Ball Bay, Halliday Bay, Seaforth and Calen areas.
"It will be alleged the child was contacted via mainstream social media."
Inspector Smith said parents needed to be "vigilant" and talk to their children about online safety.
Police are expected to address the media about the arrest on Monday afternoon.