Man Charged with Approaching Christchurch Schoolgirls While Under Detention

A man has been charged with approaching schoolgirls in Christchurch, New Zealand, while he was under a preventive detention order for previous sexual violence offenses. The accused, Leo Darin Goodwin, aged 53, faces allegations of breaching the order by contacting teenagers under the age of 16.

Appearing before the Christchurch District Court on October 3, 2023, Goodwin was remanded in custody. The police have stated that he approached young girls and solicited inappropriate favors in exchange for money.

In response to these incidents, authorities sent letters to 11 schools in the area to inform them of the situation and ensure the safety of students. The New Zealand Police are actively conducting investigations to ascertain the full extent of Goodwin’s actions and any potential additional victims.

Goodwin’s preventive detention order was previously issued due to his history of sexual violence. This recent behavior has raised significant concerns among parents and school officials as they work to maintain a safe environment for children.

The police encourage anyone with further information or who may have been approached by Goodwin to come forward as investigations continue. Their priority remains the protection of young individuals in the community.