British man faces child pornography charge in Australia

A 46-year-old British marine engineer appeared in court in Australia today after flying into Perth with a laptop computer allegedly containing child pornography.

Martin Easton, of Plymouth, did not enter a plea when he appeared in the Perth Magistrates Court charged with importing prohibited goods. He was ordered to be held in custody until he appears in court next on August 31.

Mr Easton was arrested on arrival at Perth airport late yesterday after customs officials searched his luggage and computer, the Australian Customs Service said.

“Australia has strict laws relating to the importation of material depicting children engaged in sexual acts,” customs investigator Richard Janeczko said.

“Travelers and visitors to Australia need to be aware of these restrictions before they undertake their journey.”

A customs official declined to say whether officers were acting on a tip off, but said customs searches of laptop computer files were not unusual.

The charge carries maximum penalties of 10 years in prison and a fine of 275,000 Australian dollars (€172,000).