A man accused of sexually assaulting an 11-year-old girl he met on a dating app warned her about 'creeps and stalkers' on the platform, according to the ACT Supreme Court.

Shegu Bobb, 27, is facing trial for nine sexual offences against the girl, whom he matched with on Badoo in February 2020 when he was 21. Prosecutors claim he sent sexual messages and pictures to her, reassuring her by saying, 'I'm not like that, trust me'.

Despite the girl's profile stating she was 19, Bobb continued to communicate with her, promising to keep her safe and not hurt her. The court heard that their conversations included explicit content and plans to meet in person.

Mr Bobb, who goes by the name Charles online, pleaded not guilty to charges including using a carriage service to procure child abuse material, indecency against a person under 16, and intercourse with a child under 16.

Text messages revealed his instructions to the girl to keep their interactions secret and his alleged actions during their meeting in a secluded area. Prosecutors argue that his subsequent apologies and admissions indicate awareness of guilt.

The trial is ongoing, with the jury shown evidence including the girl's initial police interview and messages found on her phone.