Car salesman and church greeter allegedly stalked, abused, teen boy

The lawyers of a Townsville car salesman and parishioner charged over the alleged stalking of a teenage boy have taken the next step in his proceedings.

THE lawyers of a Townsville car salesman and parishioner charged over the alleged stalking of a teenage boy have taken the next step in his proceedings.

Starmer’s barrister Harvey Walters appeared in Townsville Magistrates Court on Tuesday for the mention of his client’s matter.

Mr Walters told the court he had just received the brief of evidence and needed “time to consider” it.

The court heard Mr Walters request a two month adjournment, due to “Covid and staff shortages”.

John Starmer (right) walks from Townsville Courthouse with a lawyer after facing court for the first time on indecent treatment of a child charges.

He said while he believed his client would be “taking a certain course” but needed time to take instructions due to the seriousness of the charges.

Starmer, 65, is facing six charges of indecent treatment of a child under 16 years old, and one count of stalking.

Police allege Starmer stalked a 15-year-old boy he had met as a “welcomer” at church more than 18 months ago, and allegedly sexually abused the boy multiple times at his family’s home and in public places for more than a year.

The alleged conduct included inappropriate sexual touching and behaviour including ignoring the boy’s request for Starmer to stay away from him.

The matter was adjourned to a date in late March for mention.

His appearance will not be required.

Originally published as Car salesman and church greeter allegedly stalked, abused, teen boy