Pooraka mechanic Jaiden McManus in court charged with more child sexual offences

An Adelaide apprentice mechanic has been charged with more child sexual offences that include allegations he tried to procure a child for sex.

An apprentice mechanic arrested by the state’s top anti-child exploitation task force has been charged with further offences.

Jaiden McManus, 21, faced the Adelaide Magistrates Court on Tuesday, which heard new charges had been laid and one withdrawn.

Earlier, Mr McManus was charged with one count of communicating to make a child amenable to sexual activity but that charge has since been withdrawn, the court heard.

Court documents obtained by The Advertiser reveal Mr McManus has now been charged with four counts of procuring a child for sexual activity and two counts of obtaining access to child exploitation material.

Jaiden McManus, 21, leaves Adelaide Magistrates Court on Tuesday. Picture: Russell Millard Photography

Jaiden McManis, 21, Elizabeth Magistrates Court in September after his initial appearance. Picture: Leah Smith

According to the documents, Mr McManus “made a communication with the intention of procuring a child under the age of 17 years to engage in, or submit to, sexual activity” on four occasions last July and August from his home suburb of Pooraka.

He also allegedly intentionally obtained access to child exploitation material on two occasions last June and July.

SA’s Joint Anti Child Exploitation Team (JACET) arrested the apprentice heavy vehicle mechanic after online investigations into alleged sexual communication with a child.

Officers then attended Mr McManus’ Pooraka home and forensically seized and examined his electronic devices.

Mr McManus is yet to enter any pleas.

The matter will return to court next month.