TREVER POOLE FROM AXMINSTER AND WEYMOUTH CAUGHT WITH THOUSANDS OF CHILD ABUSE IMAGES

In a disturbing case that has shocked the local communities of Axminster and Weymouth, Trevor Poole, a man with a troubling history linked to child exploitation, was found to possess an alarming collection of indecent images of children. The investigation began when authorities traced Poole through his internet activity to a notorious nationwide paedophile ring, leading to a police raid at his residence near Axminster.

During the search, law enforcement officials uncovered a vast cache of over 2,500 illicit images and videos depicting child sexual abuse. The images included children of both sexes, aged approximately between three and twelve years old, and were stored on Poole’s computer. The police also discovered evidence of online interactions, including web chats where Poole engaged with others who shared similar disturbing interests. In these exchanges, he even fantasized about being a child abuser named Trevor, revealing a deeply troubling mindset.

Trevor Poole, a former soldier and ex-governor at Axminster Community Primary School, was taken into custody following the raid. His background as a military medic was highlighted during the court proceedings, with his former colonel providing a character reference. Poole, who previously resided on Raymond’s Hill and later moved to Weymouth, admitted to possessing 12 counts related to the making and possession of indecent images of children. The police’s investigation revealed that the images were not only stored for personal gratification but also shared among like-minded individuals over the internet.

At Exeter Crown Court, Judge Francis Gilbert, QC, addressed Poole directly, emphasizing the severity of his actions. The judge stated, “A police search of your home revealed more than 1,000 images,” underscoring the extent of the material found. He expressed profound concern over the suffering endured by the victims depicted in these images, noting that the distribution of such material causes immeasurable pain and distress.

Prosecutor Mr. David Bowen explained that the case originated from a nationwide investigation into a particular internet site involved in child abuse imagery. Poole was identified through his IP address, leading to the execution of a warrant at his home. Despite Poole’s claims to officers that he did not have a sexual interest in children and that the images he possessed were of children wearing nappies, forensic analysis of his devices proved otherwise. The evidence confirmed his involvement with images of children aged between three and twelve, and his online activity included two-way web chats with others who shared similar disturbing interests.

In mitigation, Poole’s defense lawyer, Mr. Lee Christmas, highlighted his client’s background as a former army medic and noted that a former colonel had come to court to provide a character reference. He explained that at the time of his arrest, Poole was a house husband while his wife was employed, but he has since moved away from his previous residence and started his own building business. The defense also pointed out that Poole had lost his home and his 21-year marriage as a consequence of his actions. Since his arrest, he has sought counseling, and a probation report recommended that he undergo treatment for his issues.

In addition to the criminal proceedings, it was confirmed by the Devon education authority that Poole served as a parent-governor at Axminster Primary School from October 19, 2011, until his resignation on November 30 of the same year. Headmaster Tony Harvell clarified that Poole’s appointment was subject to standard vetting procedures, including an enhanced Criminal Record Bureau (CRB) check, which initially showed no cause for concern. However, the revelations of his criminal conduct have since cast a shadow over his brief tenure at the school, raising questions about safeguarding and vetting processes.