Accused child sex predator refused bail over Wagga Beach incident

WARNING: This story details allegations of child sexual assault. 

A MAN accused of committing a sexual act while watching two young children playing at Wagga Beach last month has been arrested, charged and refused bail.

The alleged incident occurred near the Wiradjuri Walking Track on Johnston Street about 3.15pm on Tuesday, April 22.

According to witnesses, a man was allegedly seen performing a sexual act while hiding behind a bush and observing two children, aged two and four, who were playing in the water.

Upon noticing the man, the children’s mother, with assistance from bystanders, quickly removed the children from the area and alerted police.

A photo of the man was also taken at the scene.

The following day, a friend of the mother posted the man’s image on social media, warning others in the community and urging anyone with information to come forward.

“Thankfully a kind elderly couple assisted my friend when she distressingly asked for help in dressing the children, and moving them away,” the friend wrote.

The post was widely circulated on Facebook, prompting widespread community concern, before later being removed due to legal reasons.

Following an investigation by officers from the Riverina Police District, NSW Police released a statement a short time ago confirming a 53-year-old man was in custody.

“Following inquiries, about 7am yesterday (Monday 5 May 2025), a 53-year-old man was arrested at Wagga Wagga Police Station,” police said.

The man was charged with intentionally carry out sexual act with child under 10 years.

He was formally refused bail in Wagga Wagga Local Court on Monday and is due to reappear at the same court on Wednesday, May 21.