Media release - LECC Operation Denali s 132 Report June 2023

Tuesday, 27 June 2023

The Law Enforcement Conduct Commission has reported on its Operation Denali investigation to the NSW Parliament today after a now former NSW police officer, Michael Anthony Mannah, was convicted and sentenced for accessing child abuse material.

The Commission conducted a lengthy investigation which included utilising specialist capabilities.

During the investigation the Commission identified that Mr Mannah used his mobile phone to access child abuse material on 47 different dates from 110 unique websites including access on his mobile phone whilst performing police duties at a COVID-19 quarantine hotel.

The Commission executed a search warrant at the home of the officer, retrieving mobile phones and computer equipment.

The Chief Commissioner of the Law Enforcement Conduct Commission, the Hon Peter Johnson SC said the investigation demonstrates the effective work of the Commission.

“At a time when there is significant community concern about criminality of this type, this case illustrates there is no limit to the category of people who commit this offence, including police officers.

“The investigation is an example of the good work of the Commission in investigating and detecting misconduct and in assisting with the prosecution of the offence,” he said.

Commission officers gave evidence before Judge Bourke SC and a jury in the 7‑day trial where the jury returned a verdict of guilty to the charge of accessing child abuse material.

Judge Bourke SC sentenced Mr Mannah to imprisonment for 12 months with an order that he be released after serving a period of 4 months by recognisance release order for 2 years, subject to strict conditions.  

The Commission’s Operation Denali investigation report can be found here.

LECC Media Contact

Mobile: 0425 317 535

Email: media@lecc.nsw.gov.au