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South Coast cult leader charged with alleged child grooming

March 11, 2024 10:20 pm in by
Image: Rose Makin

The founder of a Shoalhaven religious sect and his partner have been arrested and charged in Sydney over allegations of child grooming.

William Kamm, 73, who calls himself “Little Pebble” and Sandra Costellia, 58, were arrested Monday after a 19-year-old woman came forward last year with allegations of abuse over a 13 year period.

The charges include grooming a child under 14 years for unlawful sexual activity, in a series of allegations police have described as “horrendous.”

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Police will allege Kamm used various methods to groom the complainant, including phone calls, letters and by directing the accused woman to act on his behalf whilst he was incarcerated.

Detectives last Thursday raided the religious group’s property in the Nowra suburb of Bangalee, and a unit in Sydney, seizing items relevant to the investigation.

The pair will face Sydney’s Downing Centre Local Court on Tuesday.

Support is available. 1800 RESPECT National Helpline on 1800 737 732 Kids Helpline on 1800 55 1800 Lifeline on 13 11 14.

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