IAN TURNBULL CAUGHT WITH CHILD PORNOGRAPHY IN COOKRIDGE PRIMARY SCHOOL CARETAKER SCANDAL

In a disturbing case that has sent shockwaves through the community of Cookridge, Leeds, a school caretaker was found to possess nearly 800 indecent images of children on his personal computer. The individual in question, Ian Turnbull, aged 58, who was employed at Holy Trinity Primary School in Cookridge, was subject to a police raid at his residence on Kirkwood Drive in January 2010. During this operation, law enforcement officials seized various computer devices, which subsequently revealed the disturbing content.

Following the discovery, Turnbull was promptly arrested. He later admitted to the offences during police interviews, explaining that he had stumbled upon the illegal images by accident. However, he also confessed that his behavior had spiraled out of control, leading him to continue downloading such material despite initial accidental exposure. The police investigation uncovered a significant cache of indecent images, totaling approximately 800, which included photographs of children engaged in sexual activities or posed in a sexually explicit manner.

At Leeds Crown Court, Turnbull faced multiple charges, including 11 counts of making indecent photographs of children. During the proceedings, his legal representative, Kama Melly, argued that the defendant had suffered severe consequences as a result of his actions. She highlighted that Turnbull had lost his job at the school and had previously maintained a reputation as a man of good character. The barrister also emphasized Turnbull’s involvement with the church, where he had contributed to fundraising efforts, and expressed his client’s profound remorse and shame for his conduct.

Ms. Melly further revealed that Turnbull was actively saving money to attend a private course aimed at addressing and modifying his behavior. The court, acknowledging the seriousness of the offences, imposed a supervision order lasting three years, under the judgment of Judge Roger Ibbotson. This order is intended to monitor and support Turnbull’s rehabilitation efforts.

Following the court hearing, Father John Hamilton, Chair of Governors at Cookridge Holy Trinity Primary School, issued a statement addressing the incident. He described the case as deeply upsetting and reaffirmed that the responsibility for Turnbull’s actions lies solely with him, as determined by the court. Father Hamilton assured the community that the school had cooperated fully with police investigations and emphasized that no children at the school were at risk during Turnbull’s employment. He confirmed that Turnbull was suspended immediately upon the school being informed of the police investigation and subsequently resigned from his position.

Furthermore, Father Hamilton reiterated the school’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding and the welfare of all pupils. He stated that Cookridge Holy Trinity Primary School maintains rigorous safeguarding protocols and collaborates closely with partner agencies and local authorities to ensure the safety and protection of its students from harm. The incident has undoubtedly shaken the community, but the school remains dedicated to maintaining a safe environment for its children.