Former Tasmania Police officer arrested in Queensland for alleged historic ‘persistent’ child sex offences

Max Corstorphan
The Nightly
A former police officer has been charged over alleged historic child sex offences.
A former police officer has been charged over alleged historic child sex offences. Credit: Simon Santi/The West Australian

A 74-year-old former police officer has been arrested and charged over alleged child sex offences.

Detectives from Tasmania Police’s family and sexual violence command travelled to Queensland to arrest their former colleague, who had been accused of committing the abuse in the 1980s.

He was a serving police officer at that time.

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The man was held by police in Queensland but has been granted bail and is set to appear before the Burnie Magistrates Court on February 4th.

In court, the former officer will face the charge of persistent sexual abuse of a young person.

“Tasmania Police recognises the abhorrent and deeply disturbing nature of the charges,”Assistant Commissioner Rob Blackwood said.

“As the case is before the courts, we cannot provide further comment however we strongly urge anyone with information about child sexual abuse, regardless of the passage of time, to come forward.”

If you or someone you know needs help, contact 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732), or Sexual Assault Counselling Australia on 1800 211 028.

Young people seeking support can phone beyondblue on 1300 22 4636 or go to headspace.org.au.

Lifeline: 13 11 14.

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