IT Worker Sentenced Over Online Chat Session

Arthur Borg, 51, an IT worker employed by the Queensland Department of Education was sentenced to 18 months after pleading guilty to four charges of using the internet to procure a child under 16 years. The offences were committed between February 15 and 19 in 2013 after Mr Borg had engaged in sexualised online chat sessions with a police officer on an incest-themed site. Mr Borg believed the police officer to be a 14-year-old girl. On February 20, Mr Borg had arranged to meet the girl at Nundah train station, but was instead was met by police officers.

Alex Jones, a Senior Associate with Bosscher Lawyers, along with barrister Jeff Hunter QC, led the defence of Mr Borg. The Court heard that Mr Borg had since resigned from his position with the Queensland Government, adopted the Buddhist faith, and has begun regular counseling that adresses his offending behaviour.

Judge Harrison accepted that Mr Borgs remorse was legitimate, and that he has taken steps to address his behaviour. Mr Borg will be released on a suspended sentence after serving 3 months in jail.