Former top diplomat John Finnin faces court over child grooming charges

A MAN who was once one of Australia’s most senior diplomats has faced court after being charged with grooming a young boy for sex.

A FORMER top diplomat has faced court charged with grooming a young boy for sex.

As the Australian Trade Commission’s regional director for Europe, the Middle East and Africa, John Finnin was once one of the country’s most senior diplomats.

He was arrested on Wednesday following a joint investigation by state and federal police targeting online child sexual exploitation offences.

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The 63-year-old is charged with offences including procuring and grooming a child under 16 for sexual activity, and using a carriage service to transmit an indecent communication.

Former top diplomat John Finnin has faced court over child grooming charges.

Finnin appeared at the Melbourne Magistrates Court on Friday for a brief administrative hearing where his bail was continued until his next scheduled appearance on January 11.

Specific details of the allegations levelled at Finnin have not yet been made public.

Sex squad detectives and the Joint Anti Child Exploitation Team searched Finnin’s home shortly before his arrest, seizing electronic equipment.

The father of four was not required to say anything during Friday’s short hearing.

Finnin worked in top level managerial roles in Australia and overseas as a senior public servant and diplomat.

Between 2006 and 2007 he was the inaugural CEO of fraudulent fuel technology company Firepower.

Anyone who may have any information about people involved in online child sexual exploitation is urged to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

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