Man charged over live-streamed abuse of kids overseas
Laine Clark
A man has been accused of taking part in live online abuse of children by giving instructions to another adult abroad.
Anthony Brian Jones, 40, appeared in a Sunshine Coast court on Thursday after being charged with a string of offenses by the Australian Federal Police.
He is accused of paying for and participating in online child exploitation abroad, for allegedly instructing an “adult facilitator” in the Philippines.
An investigation was launched in February following a tip from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security Investigations.
Investigators searched a home in Caloundra on April 1 and seized a number of electronic devices.
Jones was charged with using a transportation service for child abuse material, engaging in sexual activity with a child outside Australia and engaging in sexual activity with a child outside Australia.
He faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison.
The Australian Federal Police said it was working with partner agencies overseas, along with the adult facilitator, to identify victims and prevent children from further harm.
Detective Superintendent Adrian Telfer said: “The AFP works tirelessly to keep children safe and ensure that anyone who tries to harm them is identified, found and prosecuted.”
AFP said forensic examinations of the seized devices were continuing.
Jones appeared at Caloundra Magistrates’ Court on Thursday and was granted bail; His trial was postponed to August 13.
If you or someone you know needs help, contact the National Sexual Exploitation and Reparations Support Service on 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732) or 1800 211 028.
If you or someone you know needs support, call Lifeline at 13 11 14 or Beyond Blue 1300 224 636 or 1800 55 1800 Child Helpline.
AAP
