Topic: sex offenders

A 24-year-old man who posed as a child on social media to befriend and groom a 13-year-old girl before molesting, assaulting and raping her has been convicted by a Grand Court jury.

Sex offenders who target children via cellphones and social media face tough penalties under new legislation that goes to the Legislative Assembly next month.

Police will be able to keep a closer watch on convicted sex offenders through new court orders restricting their movements and behavior after release, according to senior officers.