A Hastings man who filmed child pornography in New Zealand and distributed it online has pleaded guilty to around 60 sex charges.
Aaron John Ellmers, 41, admitted to all charges including sexual violation of children, stupefying, making an intimate visual recording, dealing in people for sexual exploitation and attempted sexual conduct with a child under 12.
Police spent seven months investigating the child porn ring and as a result of Ellmers' offending, they made 35 referrals to overseas law enforcement agencies.
He has been remanded in custody for sentencing on May 7.
Detective senior sergeant John Michael says the bust has saved four children between the ages of 13 months and 13 years from further sexual abuse.
“This offending is like a spider web which has got wider and wider, involving offenders both here and overseas.
“Whilst paedophiles think the internet is their playground, it is the hunting ground for Police. We are always building our capability and capacity and we will continue to infiltrate these offenders, both here and overseas.”
Two other men – from Auckland and Canterbury – were also uncovered in the investigation and face charges of sexual violation of children and making, possessing and distributing child abuse images.
Detective senior sergeant Dave Greig, head of the Eastern District Child Protection Team, says the guilty plea will save Ellmers’ many victims from the “indignity and trauma” of a trial.
“None of us have been left untouched by the nature and depravity of this man's offending which has wreaked havoc on so many lives.
“It is heartening to know that the children involved have been saved from further offending and can now start to receive the support they need to put their lives back together.”
Police worked with their counterparts in Australia, the United Kingdom, United States of America and Canada during the investigation.
3 News
source: newshub archive
