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Byron Shire
July 12, 2026
Local News

Sexual offence and fraud charges, Gold Coast

By The Echo

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Detectives from the Gold Coast have charged two men with sexual offences that were arranged through an online classified advertisement.

The men engaged with women who responded to their advertisements, agreed on financial terms for sexual services, and subsequently committed offences, including non-payment and sexual offences. 

The first case involves a 26-year-old man facing charges of fraud, attempted rape and rape following his arrest on March 9. The man appeared in the Southport Magistrates Court on March 11 and was remanded in custody.

The second involves a 28-year-old man who has been charged with two counts of sexual assault and one count of rape. He appeared in the Southport Magistrates Court on March 12 and has also been remanded in custody.

Police are appealing to anyone with further information relating to the incidents which occurred in parklands in Labrador or victims of similar incidents involving classified advertisements, particularly in parkland areas on the Gold Coast, to come forward.

If you’ve experienced sexual assault, it is not your fault and you are not alone. There are multiple ways to report what has happened to you depending on your situation.

If there’s an immediate danger, call Triple Zero (000). You can also report online via: https://forms.police.qld.gov.au/launch/SexualAssault, over the phone or face to face at a police station.

There are also Alternative Reporting Options available depending on your situation.

For confidential information, counselling and support, call the State-wide Sexual Assault Helpline on 1800 010 120 or 1800 RESPECT for 24-hour help.

If you have information for police, contact Policelink by providing information using the online suspicious activity form 24hrs per day at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting.

Report crime information anonymously via Crime Stoppers. Call 1800 333 000 or report online at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au.

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