Charges laid after babysitter accused of abusing child in 1970s

Police have charged a 74-year-old man with alleged historical child offences. Photo: Claire Fenwicke.

CONTENT WARNING: This article refers to alleged child abuse.

Police have charged a man over the allegations that he abused a child in Canberra in the late 1970s.

ACT Policing said in November 2023, an online report was made to police relating to historical sexual assault allegations allegedly committed by the man against a primary school-aged girl he was regularly babysitting.

It is alleged he took the girl to nudist gatherings at a pool, bathed with her at his home and committed acts of indecency.

Following an investigation, the now 74-year-old man was issued a summons to appear before court on 2 September 2024 to face five charges of indecent assault on a female.

Officer in Charge of the Sexual Assault and Child Abuse Team, Detective Inspector Stephanie Leonard, reminded victim-survivors there was no time limit to report this type of crime.

“We know victims can take significant periods of time to build up the courage to report sexual offences to police,” she said.

“We would like to assure all victims that we have specially-trained and dedicated investigators ready to hear your matter.

“You can report online at any time, attend a police station or call 131 444 and we will support you through the process. We will also put you in touch with dedicated victim support services.”

A report about a historical sexual assault can be made online via the Australian Federal Police website.

If you have information in relation to this matter, you can contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000, or via the Crime Stoppers ACT website by clicking here.  Quote 7631589.

If this story has raised any concerns for you, 1800RESPECT, the national 24-hour sexual assault, family and domestic violence counselling line, can be contacted on 1800 737 732 or by visiting www.1800respect.org.au. Help and support are also available through the Canberra Rape Crisis Centre on 02 6247 2525, the Domestic Violence Crisis Service ACT 02 6280 0900, the Sexual Violence Legal Services on 6257 4377 and Lifeline on 13 11 14. In an emergency, call triple zero.