Childcare Worker Charged with Child Rape: Hundreds of Kids to Undergo Disease Testing

Joshua Dale Brown, a 26-year-old childcare worker, is facing 70 charges, including child rape and sexual assault offenses. Police allege he abused eight children, including a five-month-old, between April 2022 and January 2023. Brown has worked at 20 childcare centers since 2017, prompting health authorities to recommend testing for about 1,200 children who may have been in his care as a precaution.

The alleged incidents took place at the Creative Gardens Early Learning Centre in Point Cook, Melbourne. Brown is also accused of producing and transmitting child abuse material. Detectives are investigating further offenses at a childcare center in Essendon.

Authorities revealed that Brown had a valid working with children check and was a fill-in worker. They believe he acted alone, and the offenses occurred only in Victoria. Families have been contacted, and children are being recommended for testing for infectious diseases, which can be treated with antibiotics.

Victoria Police and health officials are urging affected families to seek testing and support. Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan expressed her shock and sympathy for the families involved. A dedicated website has been set up for those impacted by the case.

According to the source: BBC.