Cafe Co-Owner Faces Additional Child Abuse Allegations
A Canberra cafe co-owner previously charged with child sexual abuse now faces new allegations involving a second teenage employee, according to recent court proceedings. Dhiren Patel, who is in his 30s and resides in Gungahlin, appeared in the ACT Supreme Court on Tuesday, November 11, 2025, where he was formally arraigned on additional charges.
The new charges include two counts of committing an act of indecency on a child under special care relating to the second alleged victim. Patel pleaded not guilty to these fresh allegations alongside three existing counts of sexual intercourse with a child and one count of committing an act of indecency on a child concerning the first alleged victim.
Chronology of Allegations and Court Proceedings
The case against Patel began when he was initially arrested in May 2025 and charged with raping a young employee at his north Canberra cafe. Just one week following his arrest, the ACT Magistrates Court heard that additional individuals had come forward to police with claims against the businessman.
Court documents reveal that both sets of alleged crimes occurred years apart while both children were employed by Patel at his establishment. During Patel's first bail application earlier this year, prosecutors disclosed disturbing details about the case.
The cafe manager allegedly provided alcohol to the first victim on multiple occasions, according to court statements. Another staff member reportedly told the young girl that Patel "does this with all his employees," suggesting a potential pattern of behaviour.
Evidence and Ongoing Legal Process
Police investigations have uncovered that the alleged sexual assaults against the first employee were partially captured on CCTV footage and are believed to have occurred at the cafe itself. The child was allegedly intoxicated at the time of the incidents.
Patel has now been committed to stand trial in the higher court after his case was transferred from the Magistrates Court. The accused maintained his innocence throughout the proceedings, denying all charges brought against him.
The matter has been adjourned, with Patel scheduled to return to court at a later date for further proceedings. The case continues to develop as both the prosecution and defence prepare their arguments for the upcoming trial.
Support services are available for anyone affected by similar issues, including Lifeline (13 11 14), Canberra Rape Crisis Centre (6247 2525), Bravehearts (1800 272 831), and Blue Knot Foundation (1300 657 380).
