Tax office worker charged over leak to organised criminals
A 32-year-old ATO official faces serious accusations. He is accused of sharing sensitive information with organised crime associates. He is also accused of possessing child abuse material.
Federal police raided a Surfers Paradise home on Thursday. They seized phones and storage devices from the tax office worker.
Investigators say the worker shared information from his public role. This information went to organised crime associates.
He was also charged with possessing child abuse material on electronic devices. The AFP deputy commissioner said the agency is aware of organised crime groups attempting to corrupt officials.
These officials have access to sensitive law enforcement information. The man faces two counts of unlawful disclosure.
He also faces two counts of child abuse material possession. He faces 15 counts of using a carriage service for child abuse material.
Disclosure can mean up to two years in prison. Child abuse charges can mean up to 15 years in prison.
He has been suspended from his Australian Public Service role without pay. He is due to appear at Southport Magistrates Court on September 21.
Why it mattersThe case reveals a serious weakness in how officials work. Organised crime targets public officials who access sensitive data. This threatens law enforcement operations. This also threatens public safety.
AustraliaThis highlights risks within Australian tax and law enforcement agencies, prompting review of how sensitive information is protected from organised crime influence.
Corroborated bytheage.com.au·watoday.com.au
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 14 h ago
