DAVID TEMPLING FROM MARTLESHAM JAILED FOR CHILD PORNOGRAPHY AND VOYEURISM IN SUFFOLK

In a case that has shocked the local community, David Templing, a well-known figure in Martlesham and the surrounding Suffolk area, has been sentenced to 32 months in prison after admitting to serious charges related to child abuse images and voyeurism. Templing, aged 54, who was a prominent organist and the director of Haven Keyboards, now closed, was found guilty of possessing and creating a vast number of indecent images of children, alongside recording private acts without consent for sexual gratification.

Templing’s residence on Manor Road in Martlesham became the focus of police investigations following his arrest on October 14 of the previous year. The charges against him were formally brought in July, after a lengthy period of inquiry. The allegations detailed that between April 4, 2005, and October 1, 2011, Templing had made a staggering 5,817 indecent photographs or pseudo-photographs of children, a figure that his legal representatives later questioned for accuracy during court proceedings.

In addition to the child pornography charges, Templing faced accusations of voyeurism, which involved recording another individual engaged in private acts without their knowledge or consent. This incident was alleged to have taken place sometime between May 1, 2004, and December 31, 2010. The court heard that these recordings were made for Templing’s own sexual gratification, further compounding the severity of his offenses.

During the court hearing at Ipswich Crown Court, Templing admitted to nine counts of making indecent images of children and to the voyeurism charge. His solicitor, Craig Marchant, highlighted that the exact number of images was uncertain and required further verification, indicating the complexity of the case. The court was also informed that Templing’s actions did not come with any clear motive or explanation, and there was no detailed account of how he was caught or why he committed these offenses.

Following his arrest, Templing was released on bail while investigations continued. The case was adjourned for sentencing, which is scheduled to take place during the week beginning December 17. Judge David Goodin emphasized that Templing is now subject to the notification requirements under the Sexual Offences Act, and he made it clear that all sentencing options remain open, including the possibility of a longer custodial sentence or other measures deemed appropriate.

Templing’s background as a musician and a local personality added a layer of shock to the case. He was known for his performances as a keyboardist and for his involvement in the local music scene, having recorded at least five CDs, two of which he produced under his own label. His association with Haven Keyboards, established in November 2000, was well recognized in the community, especially for its focus on organ music. The store, which sold and rented musical instruments, is now closed, but during its operation, Templing managed the business and served as its director.

As the legal proceedings continue, the community awaits the final sentencing, which will determine the extent of Templing’s punishment for his crimes. The case has raised concerns about safeguarding and the importance of vigilance in protecting vulnerable individuals from exploitation and abuse, even when the accused is a respected local figure.