Hundreds of kids to be tested for disease after childcare rape charge

Who's involved?

The accused, 21-year-old Alex Jones, appeared in Newcastle Local Court yesterday, charged with seven counts of sexual intercourse with a child under 16 and one count of sexual interference with a child under 16. He was denied bail and will face Court again in September.

What was the legal decision?

Justice David Russell dismissed the bail application, stating that he was satisfied the allegations against Mr. Jones were ''genuine and serious.'' The matter will return to court in September.

What is the issue?

The victims, who cannot be identified, were aged between 12 and 14 when the incidents occurred at a Newcastle childcare centre. They were raped and sexually assaulted by Mr. Jones, who was an apprentice at the centre.

How will this affect the childcare sector?

The accused, who was fired from his apprenticeship in July last year, allegedly committed the offences between 2017 and 2020. The children were aged between 12 and 14 when the incidents occurred at a Newcastle childcare centre. The shocking allegations have rocked the centre and the wider childcare industry, raising serious concerns about the sector's ability to protect children in its care.

What's next?

The matter will return to court in September, and the accused will remain in custody until then. It's unclear whether the children involved will be able to attend court.