A 78-year-old man from Adelaide’s western suburbs has been charged with multiple historical sexual abuse offences connected to the now-closed Magill Training Centre, a youth detention facility in South Australia. The charges include 55 counts, encompassing rape, unlawful sexual intercourse, sexual abuse of a child, gross indecency, and indecent assault. These allegations involve 29 known victim-survivors, many of whom were children at the time of the alleged incidents.

The crimes are alleged to have taken place between 1978 and 2003. South Australia Police Assistant Commissioner Stuart McLean said the arrest followed extensive investigations conducted by taskforce Libero, established specifically to investigate abuse within youth detention settings. He described the inquiry as complex and protracted, praising the dedication of the investigators involved.

McLean did not specify the man’s exact role at the time of the alleged offences but confirmed that he had access to the detention centre. He also clarified that the individual was not employed by the government or the centre itself. Authorities are taking measures to protect the identity of the victim-survivors, given that most were minors during the period of the alleged abuse.

The investigation into the man began in December 2023, with taskforce Libero formally formed in March 2025. This arrest marks the first made by the taskforce, which McLean indicated may result in further charges as investigations proceed. He reiterated the police commitment to justice despite the significant passage of time since the offences occurred.

The man was scheduled to appear before the Adelaide Magistrates Court on Thursday. Police continue to encourage anyone affected or with information to come forward.

Support services remain available, including the Kids Helpline, Blue Knot Foundation, 13YARN for Indigenous Australians, Lifeline, Mensline, and Beyond Blue, providing information and crisis assistance for survivors and their families.