19 May 2022

Man charged after teens' social media photos altered for adult websites

8:15 am on 19 May 2022

Marlborough police have charged a man they say has been reposting photos of teenage girls on adult websites.

Auckland, New Zealand - December 24, 2020: Close up of a New Zealand police officer's uniform and badge

Photo: 123RF

Police said a number of young women's pictures have been taken from social media sites, doctored with sexually explicit additions and reposted to adult sites.

"This type of crime is extremely upsetting for those affected by it and I am glad we have been able to stop this person from causing more harm," Detective Senior Sergeant Ciaran Sloan said.

The 56-year-old Nelson man has been charged with child exploitation, possessing objectionable material and causing digital harm.

He is due to appear in court on Monday.

Police said this type of behaviour can be reported to them by phoning 105.

Marlborough residents can give information directly to Detective Glen Lindup at the Blenheim Police Station.

Anyone with concerns about their online security can access advice through Netsafe.