The Children In The Pictures is a LiSTNR and DNX Media new original docu-series podcast that follows the Queensland Police investigation into notorious child exploitation website, ‘The Love Zone’ which hosted thousands of members around the world who created, uploaded, and shared videos and photographic material of unimaginable acts against children. Australian documentary-maker Akhim Dev follows this elite team of Australian investigators, Taskforce Argos, who use their global connections and controversial undercover strategies to take down hands-on abusers in order to save The Children in the Pictures. Considered a landmark investigation, it is the first time undercover agents were able to take over and run a vast and secretive criminal network from the inside. They are heroes. This eight-part series is a powerful examination into how child abuse has become endemic online, and what we can all do to fight it. In the All Australian Podcasts ranker (January 18) The Children in the Pictures, jumped 15 places and made its debut in the top 40. The final episode, Episode 8, is tailored to advice for parents from those fighting the crime of Child Sexual Exploitation Material.
The podcast features former Queensland Police Detective Inspector Jon Rouse, who has investigated crimes against children for 25 years and was Argos’ victim identification specialist. When asked why he has worked for so long in this harrowing role, he simply said, “I do it for the children in the pictures.” Try and listen and not weep, not run to your kids and hold them tight, and not look at digital devices in a whole new light.
“As a parent you should be concerned. You should take an interest in the technology you are giving your child. Don’t be fearful about them going outside and playing and being kids, it is the online world that is the danger. There are now predators operating on every single gaming and social media platform out there. Trying to groom our kids, right out in the open. Sometimes while they sit in the next room,” Queensland Police Detective Inspector Jon Rouse.Podcast host and documentarian, Akhim Dev explained that DNX Media and LiSTNR went to court to tell this story, requesting the removal of a longstanding suppression order over the name of the website TLZ. Producers secured special judicial approval to release the arrest tape and police interviews with the Australian kingpin running TLZ, while Argos gave remarkable access to key evidence from its investigations.
“The Children In The Pictures is a must listen for anyone with children and teenagers in their life who want to educate themselves on how predators work to target young people. It also explores the next frontier of child exploitation: selfies and self-generated images, which end up in the wrong hands online— leaving kids vulnerable to grooming, blackmail and extortion.” Dev commented.
“This is a series that was challenging to make but so worthwhile. Child abuse is a silent epidemic coming for our kids and this podcast is a powerful examination into how it has become widespread online and what we can do to fight it.” LiSTNR Head of Factual and Drama Podcasts, Jennifer Goggin commented.
Goggin said that The Children In The Pictures series confirms LiSTNR as the go-to destination for crime, thriller and documentary podcast fans. The LiSTNR Factual Podcast team focuses on making original and engaging content with an Australian lens and global appeal. The forthcoming podcast slate will tell more untold stories about crime and injustice in Australia. The Children In The Pictures series deals with confronting issues involving abuse against children. Listener discretion is advised. If you or anyone you know needs help please contact:
- Lifeline on 13 11 14
- Kids Helpline on 1800 551 800
- Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467