A non-teaching staff member at The Friends’ School has been charged with accessing child abuse material following an investigation sparked by US authorities.
The 57-year-old South Hobart man appeared in Hobart Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday and was granted bail to reappear in February.
The Tasmania Joint Anti Child Exploitation Team received three reports from the United States’ National Center for Missing and Exploited Children between February and July this year.
The reports alleged an online user had been uploading child abuse material.
Investigators from the AFP and Tasmania Police linked the material to the South Hobart man.
Police arrested him on Tuesday after executing search warrants at his South Hobart home and a North Hobart property connected to him.
Officers seized electronic devices during the searches, which will undergo forensic analysis.
In an email to parents and guardians, principal Esther Hill confirmed the school had immediately stood down the staff member once it became aware of the allegations.
“As soon as we were made aware of the investigation and subsequent charges, we took immediate steps in line with our legal obligations and school procedures, including standing down the man and co-operating fully with the authorities,” Hill wrote.
She said the school was currently unable to provide further details due to the ongoing investigation.
“Police have assured us that currently there is no indication or evidence relating to any other member of The Friends’ School and that there is no risk or threat to our students, staff or broader school community,” Hill said.
“We understand that situations like this can cause concern and distress and we are committed to being transparent while ensuring that we do not interfere with legal proceedings.”
The man has been charged with one count of using a carriage service for child abuse material.
The offence carries a maximum penalty of 15 years’ imprisonment.
