SCOTT CRAWFORD SUNBURY CHILD ABUSE IMAGES LAPTOP CAUTION RESIGNATION

In a troubling development that has sent shockwaves through the local community of Sunbury, Scott Crawford, a 34-year-old resident and the son of prominent local figure Robbie Crawford, has been involved in a serious online investigation related to child abuse images. The incident came to light in May when Surrey’s Paedophile Online Investigation Team (POLIT) conducted an inquiry into allegations involving Scott Crawford, who was subsequently cautioned by police for possessing and creating indecent images of a child.

Scott Crawford, who resides with his father on Beechwood Avenue in Sunbury, was found to have stored a small number of Category One images on a computer. These images are classified as the most serious type of child abuse material. Following the investigation, Surrey Police issued a formal caution to Crawford on October 22, which is a non-court disposal but indicates acknowledgment of guilt for the offences. No further legal action was pursued against him, but the incident has raised significant concerns about the use of official council resources.

As a consequence of the investigation, the council’s leadership took immediate steps. The council leader, Frank Ayers, confirmed that Scott Crawford’s work laptop, which was issued to him as part of his duties, had been confiscated by the council. It was revealed that Crawford had used this council-issued device to store the illicit images, an act that has prompted questions about oversight and the safeguarding of council equipment. The council responded swiftly once the routine checks of the laptop uncovered the material, leading to Crawford’s caution and the subsequent removal of the device from his possession.

Robbie Crawford, who has served as a councillor for Sunbury Common for over 14 years, announced his resignation from Spelthorne Borough Council on Tuesday. His resignation was attributed to ongoing health issues and family commitments, as detailed in a statement he provided to the council’s chief executive, Roberto Tambini. In his statement, Robbie Crawford expressed regret over the circumstances, stating, “It is with great regret that due to long-term and deteriorating ill-health, coupled with pressing family commitments, I give notice of my resignation from the post of a borough councillor for Sunbury Common ward. I do not wish to let down the local residents who have supported me over many years, but I feel I have no alternative course of action.”

Following the incident, Councillor Crawford also made the decision to leave the Liberal Democrats in June, shortly after his son’s arrest, opting to run as an independent candidate in subsequent elections. The council leadership, including Frank Ayers, expressed disappointment over the situation but maintained respect for Crawford’s long service. Ayers stated, “Robbie has been a councillor for the last 14 years and I have known him to work very hard and do his job with integrity. He will be sadly missed.”

In response to the incident, a police spokesperson confirmed that Scott Crawford’s caution was issued after a thorough investigation into the small number of Category One images found on his computer. The police emphasized that the caution was a formal acknowledgment of guilt, and no further criminal proceedings were initiated. The case has raised ongoing concerns about the misuse of official resources and the importance of safeguarding measures within local government operations, especially when sensitive material is involved.