A Perth man, Jason William Forbes, 39, has been sentenced to seven years and five months imprisonment following his conviction for planning to abduct and abuse a child, as well as possessing child exploitation material.
The plot was uncovered in mid-2024 after Australian Border Force (ABF) officials intercepted prohibited child-like sex dolls ordered by Forbes, prompting a police investigation that revealed extensive preparations for the planned abduction.
Investigation and Discovery
The case began in mid-2024 when ABF officers intercepted an attempted importation of prohibited child-like sex dolls by Forbes. This interception initiated a joint investigation with the Western Australia Police Force, leading to a raid on Forbes's home in Baldivis.
Police stated that children in the area were considered to be at serious and imminent risk due to Forbes's detailed preparations.
Evidence of Planning
During the search of Forbes's residence, investigators uncovered significant evidence related to the planned abduction, including:
- A sound-proof loft, described as a restricted access attic space, constructed within the home.
- An "elaborate mind map" or detailed written diagrams outlining an abduction process, found on a mirror in his master bedroom.
- Research materials concerning schools, kindergartens, and early-learning centers, alongside methods for building a panic room.
- Online search history containing terms such as "volunteer childcare work near me," "chloroform," and "knock out chemicals and gases."
- A vehicle modified with dark tinted Perspex sheets, which Forbes reportedly used to film children less than two kilometers from his home, saving the footage to a folder titled "X marks the spot."
- Items such as nappies, children's underwear, children's dolls, and a fake police badge.
- Electronic devices containing over 77,000 videos and images of child abuse material, some involving very young children.
Authorities confirmed that police intervention occurred before any child was physically harmed.
Legal Outcome
Forbes pleaded guilty to multiple charges, including attempting to possess child-like sex dolls, using a carriage service to prepare or plan to engage in sexual activity with a child under 16, and possessing child exploitation material.
He received a sentence of seven years and five months. Forbes will be eligible for parole in late 2029. Police have also issued a freezing notice on Forbes's home, vehicle, and bank accounts, indicating intentions to seek forfeiture if these assets are deemed to have facilitated the offending.
Official Statements
Detective Acting Superintendent Eamon Flanagan of the Sex Crime Division stated that the extensive planning suggested that "without decisive action, something terrible could have happened."
ABF Inspector David Williamson highlighted the crucial role of the interception of the child-like sex dolls, which led authorities to Forbes's home within approximately 10 days. Williamson noted that importing such dolls is not a victimless crime and research suggests it can be an escalation point to direct offenses against children.
Detective Acting Superintendent David Palmer, also of the Sex Crime Division, affirmed the WA Police Force's commitment to protecting children and stopping individuals who pose serious risks to child safety.
Community Context
Forbes's former home, located near two schools and a childcare center, was later purchased by an individual identified as Amy, who stated she was unaware of the crimes at the time of purchase. Neighbors in the area, some with young children, also reacted to the news.
Authorities have reassured the community that such elaborate plans are rare and that suspicious activities reported to Crime Stoppers are met with rapid response.