Police officer stood down after disturbing child abuse material discovery

A 54-year-old Tasmania Police officer from the state’s south has been stood down and charged over child abuse material, the Australian Federal Police (AFP) said on Sunday.

The investigation began after an “online user” was flagged by the United States National Centre for Missing and Exploited Children.

“Police allegedly identified the man as the online user and executed search warrants in Launceston and Hobart,” AFP said.

Devices containing the child abuse material were allegedly seized at the homes.

The 54-year-old man stood down pending court processes now faces a maximum of 15 years in jail if found guilty of using a carriage service for child abuse material.

“This is distressing news, and wellbeing services are being made available to all staff as required,” Tasmania Police said.

“As confronting as it is to see a Tasmania Police officer accused of these crimes, uncovering and exposing this kind of alleged behaviour is how we will continue to fight against the abuse and exploitation of children, and work to keep our children and young people safe.

“As an organisation, we have committed to better protecting children and ensuring the values and behaviour of Tasmania Police meets the high standards expected by the community.”

Tasmania Police has said that it will not comment further on the matter, as it is now before the courts.

Members of the public who have information about people involved in child abuse are urged to contact the Australian Centre to Counter Child Exploitation (ACCCE).

If you know abuse is happening right now or a child is at risk, call police immediately on triple-0.