‘I’m pleading guilty’: Former surfing mentor Connor Lyons to plead guilty to child sex and exploitation charges

A once-celebrated Sunshine Coast surf coach and mentor to young surfers has appeared in court, confirming he will plead guilty to child exploitation and abuse charges. Connor John Christopher Lyons, appeared on Wednesday at Maroochydore District Court via video link wearing prison greens, his hair noticeably darker and a goatee now framing his face. The 26-year-old faces 28 charges, including indecent treatment of children under 16, making and possessing child exploitation material, and damaging evidence with intent, with some alleged victims under the age of 12. The hearing was brief, with the indictment presentation delayed because the statement of facts and list of charges had not yet arrived at the correctional centre. The court was told they were sent by post on Friday. Mr Lyons, who discharged his lawyer early in the proceedings and has been representing himself throughout the case, was asked by Judge Glen Cash whether he wished to engage legal representation. “I’m still representing myself,” Mr Lyons replied. When asked whether he intended to plead to the charges, provided they matched those previously dealt with in the Magistrates Court, Mr Lyons agreed. “I’m pleading guilty to all of those charges,” he said. Judge Cash also inquired about Mr Lyons’ preferred timing for sentencing. “As soon as possible,” Mr Lyons answered. Concerned about the delay, Judge Cash asked the court officer if the documents could be delivered more quickly by fax or email. “Mr Lyons wants to plead guilty and get it dealt with,” Judge Cash said. “It’s taken six months for the indictment to be presented, that seems like an extraordinarily long time.” The officer confirmed the files could be emailed to the correctional centre. Mr Lyons also confirmed he would represent himself at sentencing and intended to make submissions on his own behalf. The matter was stood down until November 26 to allow Mr Lyons time to read through each charge and the statement of facts before proceeding with the indictments.