Police a Queensland A man convicted of 596 child abuse offenses used false identities online to marry and coerce children – mostly aged seven to 15 – in Australia and overseas.
The 27-year-old from Maryborough – due to appear in a Brisbane court today – was arrested in February 2025 and refused bail.
Police on Thursday released information about the case that they spent the last 12 months trying to identify the victims from 23,000 photographs and videos stored on the man’s hard drive.
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The investigation, codenamed Xray Vic, identified 259 boys and girls. Police allege that there are 459 victims. Investigations – including by police interstate and foreign agencies – are ongoing.
There are 244 counts of producing child abuse material through a carriage service, 163 counts of using a carriage service to procure persons under the age of 16, and 87 counts of engaging in sexual activity with children while using a carriage service.
Police said they allege the man actively targeted children on social media and gaming platforms between 2018 and 2025.
“Police allege the man himself produced the child abuse material found on the electronic devices,” a Queensland Police statement said.
“Police allege that the man created several online profiles posing as both male and female and collected child exploitation material directly from the perpetrators through grooming and coercion.
“Police also allege that the man recorded his interactions, meticulously saving images and videos in named folders.”
Acting CH Supt Denzil Clarke from the Queensland Police State Crime Command said the investigation required the coordinated efforts of child abuse detectives, digital forensic experts, interstate and international police and the Australian Centers to Combat Child Exploitation.
“Due to the volume of images and videos of children on the alleged perpetrator’s devices, the identification process took time, skill and commitment,” Clark said.
“This is very alarming and disturbing. We are seeing an increase in children being groomed, coerced or threatened by sending sexual images of themselves, often through popular apps, games and social media sites.
“The trauma it causes to the child is significant.
“Our investigators will not stop and I urge parents and guardians to continue to take proactive and ongoing measures to ensure young people’s online safety.
In Australia, a crisis support service Life line 13 11 14. If you or someone you know has been affected by sexual abuse, family or domestic violence, call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732 or visit www.1800RESPECT.org.au. In an emergency, call 000. International helplines can be found here www.befrienders.org. Stop now! Helpline 1800 011 800.
