WhatsApp chat exposed ugly truth about Sydney traveller
A Sydney man has been sentenced to prison after being caught with over 1,000 files of child abuse material upon returning from Dubai. The investigation revealed he had been soliciting and sharing such material with other offenders online and engaging in sexual activity with minors.
Why it matters
The case underscores the ongoing efforts of border authorities and law enforcement to combat the international distribution and possession of child exploitation material.
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Share A A A Returning from Dubai, Sydney man William John Leslie Harrop confidently ticked “no” on his customs card to the question asking if he had brought in prohibited goods, including illegal pornography.
But that was a lie. Harrop, 26, was in possession of more than 1000 child abuse material files on his phone. His recent photos folder had 764 photos and 482 videos, almost all of which depicted child abuse involving real children.
William Harrop will be eligible for parole in 2029. Australian Border Force Those files were discovered by Australian Border Force officials at Sydney Airport in September 2025. A forensic analysis of his phone found a further 184 photos and videos of abuse, alongside incriminating messages with children.
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