DEREK BURT FROM KINGSKERSWELL CAUGHT IN ONLINE CHILD SEX OFFENCE SCANDAL AT TEIGN SCHOOL

In a disturbing incident that has shocked the local community, Derek Burt, a school cleaner employed at Teign School in Kingsteignton, was caught in a sting operation orchestrated by an online group known for exposing potential predators. The incident unfolded in May 2018, when Burt, aged 46, was targeted by individuals who posed as underage girls online, leading to a series of alarming events.

According to reports, Burt believed he was communicating with a 14-year-old girl during his online interactions. However, he was actually engaging with members of the online group, who had set up a Facebook Live broadcast to record his actions. During this broadcast, Burt was accused of sending sexually explicit photographs and messages, which he believed were intended for the minor. The group’s intent was to expose individuals attempting to engage in illegal activities with minors, and they broadcast the confrontation on Facebook to raise awareness and prevent potential abuse.

Following the broadcast, police were alerted, and Derek Burt was swiftly arrested on suspicion of attempting to arrange or facilitate a child sex offence. The authorities confirmed that Burt was taken into custody and subsequently issued a formal caution, a measure often used in cases where the individual admits guilt but the offence does not warrant a prosecution. A spokesperson from Devon & Cornwall Police stated, “A 36-year-old man from Kingskerswell was arrested on suspicion of attempt to arrange or facilitate the commission of a child sex offence and has been given an adult caution.”

In response to the incident, Teign School issued a statement to reassure parents and guardians. The school clarified that Burt had never worked directly with children at the institution. The official communication read: “We were made aware last night, via Facebook, of an allegation directed toward a part-time cleaner at Teign School. We immediately contacted the police and the local authority and asked them to investigate these allegations rigorously and swiftly. The member of staff has been suspended, without prejudice, with immediate effect.”

Authorities continue to emphasize the importance of vigilance and the need for ongoing efforts to protect minors from online predators. The case remains a stark reminder of the dangers lurking in digital spaces and the importance of community and institutional vigilance in safeguarding vulnerable individuals from exploitation and abuse.