Sydney man charged for importing child sex doll and generating AI abuse material
A 59-year-old Sydney man was arrested and charged after Australian Border Force and Federal Police discovered a child-like sex doll in a shipment and found AI-generated child abuse material on his digital devices. He faces charges of importing tier 2 goods, producing and possessing child abuse material, each carrying a maximum 15-year sentence.
What happened
In August 2025, the Australian Border Force investigated a shipment coming into Sydney from Asia and discovered a child-like sex doll inside.
On 8 September, border force and Australian Federal Police officers searched a home at Lalor Park in Sydney's west. Digital devices and children's clothing were allegedly seized, and investigators uncovered a significant amount of AI-generated child abuse material on the devices.
Neil Gardoll, 59, was arrested at his home and charged with importing tier 2 goods (items depicting a person under 18), producing child abuse material, and possessing child abuse material. Each offence carries a maximum 15-year sentence.
Reported impact
ABF Superintendent Shaun Baker stated that the child-like sex dolls and digital material have no place in Australian society and that such dolls abnormally normalise child exploitation.
AFP Detective Superintendent Luke Needham said that those engaging in these activities would be found, charged and prosecuted.
Governance controls
The ABF said it uses intelligence and technology in ports to detect items such as sex dolls as they enter the country.
Investigators worked alongside partners across Australia and internationally to prevent child abuse and bring offenders before the courts.
Classification
Sources and evidence
Sources not yet published
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