Full Breakdown
Queensland Man Charged with 596 Child Abuse Offences
2/5/2026, 8:54:29 AM
Overview of the Charges
A 27-year-old man from Maryborough, Queensland, identified as Ethan Mitch Burns-Dederer, has been charged with 596 child abuse-related offences following an extensive investigation by Queensland Police. The charges stem from allegations that he groomed, coerced, and threatened hundreds of children on popular social media and gaming platforms. The investigation, known as Operation Xray Wick, began in February 2025 when police seized electronic devices from Burns-Dederer's residence, uncovering approximately 23,000 sexually explicit images and videos involving 459 victims aged between five and 15 years old.
Details of the Allegations
According to Crime Command Detective Acting Chief Superintendent Denzil Clark, the alleged offences occurred between 2018 and 2025. Burns-Dederer is accused of creating multiple fake online profiles, posing as both males and females, to target young victims. The police allege that he meticulously recorded his interactions with these children, saving the explicit material in pre-named folders. Of the identified victims, around 200 are from Australia, while others are from 14 different countries.
Ongoing Investigations
The investigation remains active, with police collaborating with both national and international authorities to identify and support all victims involved. Detective Clark emphasized the increasing prevalence of child grooming and exploitation through digital platforms, stating, “We are seeing an increasing prevalence of children being groomed, coerced, or threatened into taking and sending sexual images of themselves.” He urged parents and caregivers to take proactive measures to ensure the online safety of young people.
Official Statements
Queensland Police have described the nature of the allegations as "extremely concerning and disturbing." They highlighted the significant trauma that such offences can inflict on children. The police are continuing their efforts to investigate and identify additional victims, with Clark stating, “Our investigators will not stop.”
Criticism & Opposition
While the investigation has garnered attention for its serious nature, there are concerns regarding the effectiveness of current online safety measures. Critics argue that despite recent bans on social media platforms for users under 16, the rise in online child exploitation persists, indicating a need for more robust protective measures.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We are seeing an increasing prevalence of children being groomed, coerced, or threatened into taking and sending sexual images of themselves, often through popular apps, games, and social media sites,” — Denzil Clark, Crime Command Detective Acting Chief Superintendent
- “The trauma that this causes a child is significant.” — Denzil Clark, Crime Command Detective Acting Chief Superintendent
- “If anybody has any information of any person committing child sexual abuse, then please report it to police, and if those matters are linked to this investigation, we will make that linkage and investigate it as part of this investigation,” — Denzil Clark, Crime Command Detective Acting Chief Superintendent
The case against Burns-Dederer is set to be mentioned in Brisbane Magistrates Court, where he has been in custody since his arrest. The investigation continues as authorities seek to uncover the full extent of the alleged offences and provide support to the victims involved.
