Just days after being granted bail, a senior executive formerly with Commonwealth Bank has been found dead on the outskirts of the Gold Coast.
The case has sent shockwaves through both the corporate world and wider community due to the disturbing nature of the allegations.
Executive Facing Serious Child Exploitation Charges
Christopher James McCann, 50, was recently extradited to Queensland after being arrested in New South Wales.
He faced a disturbing charge: using the internet to try to procure children under the age of 16 for sex.
He appeared before a Brisbane court on Monday, where the allegations against him were outlined in detail.
According to the court, McCann had allegedly arranged to meet underage girls at a five-star hotel in Brisbane in May.
The Alarming Allegations Unfold
Court documents stated that McCann had been in communication with 18-year-old sex worker Shauntelle Elizabeth Went, who allegedly offered to connect him with two girls aged either 14 or 15.
Magistrate Louise Shephard detailed the accusation, saying McCann had queried whether Went had “younger friends” she worked with.
On May 14, police reportedly intercepted these messages.
According to Shephard, an agreement was made for Went and the two underage girls to meet McCann at the Sofitel Hotel in Brisbane.
While the girls reportedly arrived at the hotel, they never entered his room—McCann allegedly called the front desk and asked that they leave.
Police Operation and Bail Controversy
After NSW Police referred the matter to Queensland’s Task Force Argos—known for investigating child exploitation—authorities searched McCann’s home on July 8.
He was arrested and then transferred to Queensland for court proceedings.
During his bail hearing, prosecutors strongly objected to his release, citing the risk of reoffending and his access to financial resources.
They argued that he posed a flight risk. The magistrate acknowledged that McCann had already lost his job with the Commonwealth Bank.
Despite these concerns, McCann was granted bail with strict conditions: an overnight curfew, restricted phone usage, and a ban on encrypted communication apps.
Found Dead Two Days After Bail
Just two days after appearing in court, McCann was found dead in the rural area of Springbrook, located on the Gold Coast hinterland. Queensland Police have confirmed that his death is not being treated as suspicious.
“A report will be prepared for the Coroner following the non-suspicious death of a man at Springbrook yesterday,” a police spokesperson stated.
Both Accused Were Due in Court Next Month
Both McCann and Went had been scheduled to reappear in court on August 4.
Went had also been granted bail under similar conditions.
McCann, who previously described himself online as a seasoned corporate finance executive with over two decades of experience, maintained a quiet demeanor during his court appearance, keeping his gaze either straight ahead or down.
Support Resources Available
If this story brings up any distressing emotions or you or someone you know needs help, there is support available.
Contact Lifeline at 13 11 14 or Beyond Blue at 1300 22 4636 for confidential mental health support.