Armidale businessman, 58, charged with sexually touching teenage colleague at work function

The 58-year-old man was arrested at an Armidale home by local detectives, after an investigation was launched earlier this month.

Detectives will allege the man sexually touched a teenage woman during an incident at a club on December 6, last year.

It's the police case that the alleged offender is known to his victim, and they work together. The incidents are not alleged to have occurred at the workplace.

READ ALSO:

The 58-year-old man was taken to Armidale police station and questioned by detectives over the allegations.

He was later charged with five counts of sexual touching.

The man was granted conditional bail, after his arrest.

As part of his bail conditions, the man is prohibited from contacting the alleged victim; or any Crown witnesses in the case.

He has been ordered to appear in Armidale Local Court later this month, where he will have to enter pleas to the charges.

Some of the details of the investigation cannot be reported for legal reasons.

A New England Police District spokesperson confirmed the investigation was launched earlier this month after a complaint was made to police.

"Armidale detectives launched an investigation into allegations of sexual touching at a club on December 6, 2019," the spokesperson said.

"The incidents are alleged to have occurred during a function at the venue. "As a result of inquiries by investigators, detectives arrested a 58-year-old man on Saturday.

"He has been charged with five offences and was bailed to appear in Armidale Local Court.

"Investigations into the matter are continuing and police would appeal for anyone with information to come forward."

If found guilty of the offences, the man faces a maximum penalty of five years' imprisonment.

Want more crime and court news? Support the local news that keeps you informed - subscribe today