NZ police officer, senior football referee charged with indecently assaulting 16yo in Australia

ACT Policing received reports of incidents that occurred during team-building activities conducted prior to the tournament. Photo / Michael Craig

A New Zealand police officer and senior football referee participating in a national tournament in Australia have been charged with indecently assaulting a 16-year-old referee.

The 66-year-old Kiwi man appeared in the ACT Magistrates Court in Canberra today.

The Canberra Times reported that the accused is also a New Zealand police officer.

A New Zealand Police spokesperson told the Herald: “We have no comment to make at this time, this is a matter for ACT Police.”

In a statement, ACT Police said it received reports on Tuesday of incidents during team-building activities conducted prior to the tournament.

ACT Police allege the incident occurred on Saturday afternoon, with several people witnessing it.

Last night, ACT Police said, officers arrested the New Zealand man at the accommodation he was staying at.

He has been charged with one count of indecency against a young person under special care.

ABC News reported the referee was in Canberra for the Kanga Cup, which is the southern hemisphere’s largest youth football competition.

The Kiwi man appeared in court wearing a grey jacket with the Kanga Cup 2023 logo, ABC reported.

He was granted bail and his case is due to return to court on July 31.

In a statement to the Canberra Times, Football Australia said it was aware of the incident and the safety and welfare of the football community was a priority.

“Football Australia has mechanisms in place to provide thorough support to our members, as has been the case over the course of this week,” it said.

“With this matter still before the courts, it is not appropriate to provide any further comment on this incident at this time.”