A 78-year-old man from Queensland has been charged with the indecent treatment of a child and attempted rape of a girl under 12. The charges stem from an incident in a Deception Bay park, where witnesses reported that the man, using a mobility scooter, was seen with the girl in a toilet block, allegedly assaulting her. The prompt intervention of a bystander led to police being notified.
Although the man and the child did not know each other, it was noted that both frequently visited the park. He was arrested the following day and faces multiple charges, including two counts of indecent treatment and one count of attempted rape. Authorities believe there could be additional victims and have urged anyone who witnessed suspicious behaviour to come forward.
Detective Inspector Phil Hurst emphasised the importance of reporting such offences, which are mandatory, and reassured potential victims that they would be listened to and supported. The man is scheduled to appear in Redcliffe Magistrates Court on March 5. The efforts of the Redcliffe Child Protection and Investigation Unit in addressing this matter swiftly were acknowledged.