Central Queensland man, 21, charged with indecent treatment of child, rape

A Central Queensland man is facing a string of serious charges relating to the mistreatment and exploitation of children - including one count of rape. Here’s what happened in court.  

A Central Queensland man is facing a string of serious charges relating to the mistreatment and exploitation of children – including one count of rape.

The man, 21, had five committal charges heard in Emerald Magistrates Court on Tuesday, August 2, which included one of indecent treatment of children under 16, two of making child exploitation material, one of possessing child exploitation material, one of possessing child exploitation material-hidden network/anonymising service, and one of rape.

He did not enter a plea.

Rockhampton-based duty lawyer, Lachlan Robertson of Legal Aide, recommended the man’s matters be adjourned to August 23 for a full brief of evidence to be prepared.

“There’s also been a brief of evidence ordered on this matter that I’m aware is not yet ready,” Mr Robertson said.

“Perhaps in the circumstances your Honour, an adjournment of two weeks would be appropriate for that finalisation or any update on that brief of evidence, and also that finalisation or any update on that grant of Legal Aide.”

Police prosecutor Sergeant Rachel Todd, and Magistrate Rosemary Gilbert both agreed given the nature of the charges and the request of the brief of evidence, it would suitable for the matter to be heard in Emerald Magistrates Court in two week’s from his first appearance.

The defendant was released on bail by Ms Gilbert and instructed to appear in court again on August 23.