Queensland Police have charged an 80-year-old former sports administrator and coach from Rosemount with multiple historical child abuse offenses.
The charges stem from allegations of repeated sexual offenses against a child known to him through a local sports club between 1993 and 1998.
The arrest follows a collaborative investigation by the Caboolture and Sunshine Coast Child Protection Investigation Units (CPIU).
On November 15, 2024, police conducted a search warrant at the man’s Rosemount residence and found evidence leading to his arrest.
Ex-Sports Administrator Charged with Child Abuse Crimes with 17 different counts, which include 12 counts of indecent treatment of children aged between 12-16 and five counts of unlawful intercourse.
Via abc.net.au
Though his identity has not been publicly disclosed, the accused ex-sports administrator and coach will appear in the Maroochydore Magistrates Court on December 12, 2024.
Det. Sgt. Kerri Della-Vedova Highlighted The Importance Of Community Help To Keep Criminals Behind Bars
Detective Senior Sergeant Kerri Della-Vedova of Sunshine Coast CPIU thanked the victim-survivor who bravely reported the abuse, which enabled this investigation to progress and lead to these charges.
Further, She added-:
“We believe there may be further victims that have not yet come forward. if anyone else relates to this offending or has more information. I encourage you speak to police ”
Via Queensland Police News
Detective Della-Vedova also reinforced the obligation to report child sexual offending and the invaluable role of the community in bringing these offenders before the courts and said-:
“I’d like to reinforce to anyone who has experienced sexual violence or abuse, even decades ago, that police will listen, we will investigate, while respecting your wishes, privacy, health and safety needs.”
Via Queensland Police News
Queensland Police emphasize the importance of reporting crimes against children, regardless of when they occurred.
They actively listen, investigate, and support survivors with sensitivity and respect.
Survivors of sexual assault should seek help, as support is available, and they are not alone.
They can trust that their reports will receive the utmost care, regardless of the time that has passed.
Queensland Police handle all reports confidentially and with care, prioritizing the safety and wishes of survivors throughout the investigative process.
Caution and accountability are crucial in protecting children from sexual violence, which leaves lifelong scars on survivors.
They urge anyone with information on child sexual offenses to report, aiding survivors and ensuring offenders are held accountable.
The police continue to investigate and are asking for public assistance with any information.
Survivors Deserve Justice, And Their Courage Can Protect Others
This news is really disheartening, especially in a sports community where athletes and coaches should feel safe showcasing their skills and talents.
Such incidents cast a shadow of fear and insecurity over sports’ foundation, which should be about empowerment, teamwork, and growth.
Our collective responsibility is to speak up for those who cannot and raise awareness about these critical issues.
Supporting survivors helps create a safer environment in sports and beyond for everyone involved.
If you or someone you know has experienced sexual assault, remember this: it is not your fault.
Help is available in various ways depending on your situation and what feels safest for you.
Don’t hesitate to get in touch with the proper authorities for more information or to report abuse.
Together, we can work toward justice and build communities where safety and trust are priorities for all.
In Case You Didn’t Know
- Survivors of sexual assault are encouraged to seek help by calling Triple Zero (000) in case of emergencies.
- One can report online via the Queensland Police Sexual Assault Reporting Portal or by visiting their local police station.
- An ex-sports administrator and coach is a lifelong member of the sporting organization.
