Soren Leslie Copley, a 61-year-old man from Toomulla, appeared before Townsville Magistrates Court on Monday over serious child exploitation allegations. The Northern Command Joint Anti Child Exploitation Team apprehended him at Townsville Airport in November 2025. He was preparing to board a flight to the Philippines via Brisbane. Commonwealth prosecutors charged him with one count of procuring a child to engage in sexual activity outside Australia.
Investigation Commences Following International Tip-off
The Australian Federal Police initiated investigations into Copley on 3 September 2025. The United States agency of Homeland Security Investigations referred the case to the Northern Command Joint Anti Child Exploitation Team. This collaboration between international law enforcement agencies proved crucial in uncovering the alleged criminal plot. AFP Detective Inspector Steven Wiggins emphasised the importance of global cooperation in tackling child exploitation. He stated that all online activities are traceable, regardless of location.
Search Warrant Uncovers Incriminating Evidence
On 13 November 2025, law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at an address in Toomulla. The Northern Command Joint Anti Child Exploitation Team and AFP Technology Detection Dog team conducted the operation. Queensland Police Service’s Public Safety Response Team assisted with the warrant execution. Officers subsequently travelled to Townsville Airport after the home proved empty.
Investigators located Copley at the airport before his departure. They seized a mobile phone during the operation. Forensic examination of the mobile device uncovered messages between Copley and a woman in the Philippines. The messages allegedly outlined plans for sexual activity with her daughter, aged 16. Additional messages suggested inappropriate conduct with another daughter, aged 6.
Copley charged with procuring a child to engage in sexual activity outside Australia
Serious Charges and Legal Consequences
Copley faces one count of procuring a child to engage in sexual activity outside Australia. This charge violates section 272.14 of the Criminal Code. The maximum penalty for this offence is 15 years’ imprisonment. The Commonwealth prosecutors granted Copley conditional bail pending further proceedings. The case is scheduled to continue at Townsville District Court on 9 March 2026.
Strict Bail Conditions Imposed
The court imposed several strict bail conditions on Copley. He must remain at his registered Toomulla residence unless granted explicit permission from Commonwealth prosecutors. He cannot depart Queensland or Australia without authorisation. Copley is required to check in with Queensland Police on a weekly basis. He must use only one authorised smartphone for all communications. The court prohibited him from interacting with any children. He must maintain a distance of at least 50 metres from any school or educational facility.
Bail conditions of Soren Copley
Philippines Referral Strengthens International Response
The Australian Federal Police made a formal referral to the Philippine National Police regarding this case. This action reflects the commitment of Australian authorities to international cooperation in combating child exploitation. The collaboration between law enforcement agencies demonstrates that offenders face consequences in multiple jurisdictions.
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Expert Commentary on Law Enforcement Success
AFP Detective Inspector Steven Wiggins provided important context about the investigation. He highlighted that the cooperation between the Australian Federal Police, the Australian Centre to Counter Child Exploitation, and the United States Homeland Security Investigations proved critical. He emphasised that anyone engaging in the exploitation or abuse of children should expect apprehension and prosecution. The detective stated that all online activities are traceable, regardless of global location.
Prevention and Community Support
The Australian Centre to Counter Child Exploitation continues driving a collaborative national approach to combating child abuse. The organisation brings together specialist expertise and skills in a central hub. ACCCE supports investigations into online child sexual exploitation and develops prevention strategies. These strategies focus on creating safer online environments for vulnerable young people. Research conducted by ACCCE in 2020 revealed that only half of parents discussed online safety with their children.
Members of the public with information about child abuse are urged to contact the Australian Centre to Counter Child Exploitation. Citizens witnessing immediate abuse or children at risk should call police on 000 without delay. Support services remain available for survivors of child sexual abuse and online exploitation.
Ongoing Legal Proceedings
Copley continues on conditional bail as the Commonwealth prepares its case. The next court hearing will occur at Townsville District Court on 9 March 2026. This case exemplifies the determination of Australian law enforcement to protect children from exploitation. The investigation demonstrates that technology, international cooperation, and persistent investigative work remain essential in combating child abuse.
