A Sex Offender Management Squad (SOMS) investigation has identified 11 offenders, including four reportable offenders, engaged in inappropriate contact with youths and serves as a reminder of the importance of cyber safety.
In April, SOMS Detectives allegedly discovered inappropriate online communication and physical contact between a reportable offender and a youth.
Further investigations uncovered a total of 11 offenders who had inappropriate contact with 140 youths.
Altogether, 18 offenders have been charged with a total of 214 charges, including those relating to drugs, trespass and cruelty to animals, with more investigations still continuing.
Acting Detective Senior Sergeant Matt Daly said the rise of social media platforms has given offenders new ways to reach youths.
"The majority of offences are non-physical communication via popular social media platforms such as Facebook and Instagram, and via mobile phones," he said.
"This contact allegedly breaches the accused persons' obligations as a reportable offender and further to that constitutes 'grooming' - whereby the offender is attempting to build a relationship with the youth to ultimately engage in sexual contact with them.
"Mobile phones and the ongoing rise of social media platforms provides offenders with new ways to reach out to youths in order to commit crimes and we're working hard to crackdown on this behaviour."
Of the 140 youths identified to date, 23 are alleged to have been the victim of sexual offending and of the 214 charges laid to date, 79 are of a sexual nature.
The youths range in age from 13 to 19, while the charged persons are aged from 18 to 41.
State Crime Assistant Commissioner Brad Royce said the investigation named, Timing Belt commenced as a result of proactive work undertaken by SOMS to ensure reportable offenders were meeting their obligations.
"Operation Timing Belt serves as a reminder to parents and guardians to know the online habits of your children," he said.
"You wouldn't let a stranger into your home if they randomly knocked on the front door - likewise, you shouldn't allow someone to access your online profile unless you know them.
"Timing Belt also serves as a reminder to reportable offenders - we are watching you closely and we are proactively conducting compliance checks to ensure you are meeting your legal obligations."
In the 2019/20 financial year, SOMS conducted almost 4000 legislated reporting meetings, and more than 3600 unannounced home visits.
Operation Timing Belt is continuing and anyone with concerns about inappropriate contact with children is encouraged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or www.crimestoppperswa.com.au.
