The deputy head teacher of a primary school has been charged with possessing online images of child abuse.
Richard Swinnerton, of Coulby Newham, Middlesbrough, faces three counts, relating to category A, the most severe, and categories B and C.
The 30-year-old, who has resigned from his job at St Clare's Catholic Primary School in Middlesbrough, will appear at Teesside Magistrates' Court on July 10.
The National Crime Agency said that there is no evidence to suggest any of the alleged images were made at the school, and there are no allegations that Swinnerton committed physical abuse.
Elizabeth Eddies, St Clare's headteacher, said: "I wish to assure all parents that the well-being and safety of children at St Clare's remains of paramount importance.
"These charges do not relate to his employment at the school. This is deeply upsetting news for everybody involved with St Clare's, which has served the local community and families for over 50 years."
Article by Press Association
Reporting courtesy of Press Association.
A Monthly Gift Of £8 Makes A World Of Difference
In a world of fake news there’s never been a greater need for quality Christian journalism. Premier’s mission is to provide the Church with the most up to date and relevant news, told from a Christian perspective. But we can’t do it without you.
Unlike many websites we haven't put up a paywall — we want to keep our journalism free at the point of need and as open as we can. Premier’s news output takes a lot of time, money and hard work to produce. No one in the UK is sharing news like we are across radio, magazines and online so please help us to continue that today.
For a monthly gift of £8 or more we’d also be able to send you a free copy of the brand new Premier Bible, a wonderful Anglicised version of the NLT packed with exclusive bonus content, reading plan and resources to help you get the most out of scripture.
Your monthly support will make a world of difference. Thank you.
Set up a monthly gift
