
⚠️ Content Warning: This article contains descriptions of child sexual abuse material and exploitation, which may be distressing to some readers. Discretion is advised. If you or someone you know needs support, please contact Netsafe or other appropriate services listed at the end of this article.
A Wellington man has been sentenced to five-and-a-half years in prison for facilitating a website that hosted tens of thousands of computer-generated child sexual abuse images, following an international investigation led by New Zealand Police and United States authorities.
Donald James Sarratt, 35, was sentenced today in Wellington District Court after being found guilty of possessing objectionable material relating to children and knowingly creating or copying material depicting child sexual abuse.
Sarratt’s role in running the website came to light during Operation Dark Orchid, launched in 2022 following a referral from the US Department of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and Department of Justice Child Exploitation Unit.
Police say the website contained more than 85,000 images, including over 30,000 highly realistic depictions of graphic sexual abuse and torture of children, some as young as infants. A forensic examination of Sarratt’s devices also revealed images involving real children.
Detective Sergeant Daniel Wright of the Online Child Exploitation Across New Zealand (OCEANZ) team said the sentencing is the result of tireless work by both New Zealand and US investigators.
“This investigation demonstrates our commitment to keeping our communities safe, and that we will use all resources available to us to hold to account those who prey on the vulnerability of children,” Wright said.
HSI Dallas Special Agent in Charge Travis Pickard added: “The vast number of images uncovered — many disturbingly realistic — is unacceptable in any part of contemporary society. This sentence reinforces our dedication to protecting the innocence of our most vulnerable populations.”
The website has now been dismantled, and police have reiterated their call for the public to report any child sexual abuse material encountered online.
Authorities emphasise the importance of using correct terminology in media coverage. Terms such as “child sexual abuse images” or “child objectionable material” should be used, rather than “child pornography,” which risks downplaying the gravity of the abuse and the suffering of victims.
If you need to report child sexual abuse material:
- Call New Zealand Police on 105 or report online at 105 Police Non-Emergency Online Reporting
- In an emergency, dial 111
- Visit Department of Internal Affairs
- Contact Netsafe for online safety advice