2 months ago
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Detectives are appealing for the public’s help to identify objects discovered in online child sexual abuse material that could help unlock cold cases going back decades.
The nine objects shown in images released on Saturday include a vintage radio bedhead, a child’s handmade dress, and a pillow depicting an owl.
Detective Sergeant Lana Carey, a victim identification team leader with the Australian Federal Police, said each image represented a cold case where all lines of inquiry had been exhausted.
“We’re looking to spark the memory of anyone who might have come across them,” Carey said.
“It’s about tapping into the wisdom of everyday Australians … we know they’re eager to play a role.”
Carey said three previous image releases had generated more than 1300 reports from members of the public.
One image in the latest release showed a pair of local sporting jerseys framed and hung on a wall.
“Possibilities here could include a player or club member who might recognise the jersey colours or design, a framer who might remember doing the job, or a fan who might know the significance of the number 8 and 11 jerseys being grouped together,” Carey said.
The oldest image, of a vintage bedhead with radios installed on both sides, dates back to September 2000.
Detectives already know the brand of radio, but do not know the location of the room or people connected with it. Additional clues include the computer chair, speckled cream carpet, mattress, wall covering, carpet, lights, mirror and side tables, noting they may have changed colour or been renovated over time.
Another image shows a distinctive anklet worn by a woman who would now be in her early 20s.
The photos have been censored to remove graphic material but all capture a situation where a child has been abused.
AFP commander Helen Schneider said the agency’s victim identification team received new images of child exploitation every day, which they analyse frame by frame.
Schneider said any tip, no matter how small, could lead to a breakthrough for detectives and change the life of a victim.
“Every one of them represents a life upended, so when team members take on a case they never give up,” she said. “It’s our version of looking for a needle in a haystack.”
Images can be viewed and reports made on the Australian Centre to Counter Child Exploitation (ACCCE) website.
If you or anyone you know needs help, call Lifeline on 13 11 14 (and see lifeline.org.au), 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732), the National Sexual Abuse and Redress Support Service on 1800 211 028 or Kids Helpline on 1800 551 800.
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