A SCHOOL caretaker has been sentenced to 12 weeks in prison after admitting charges of voyeurism and taking indecent images of children.
David Taylor, 34, of Colburn appeared before magistrates at Northallerton today.
Prosecuting, Gill Sandell said the images were of a child, taken with what was believed to be a hidden camera. There were also images of Taylor approaching the device to turn it off.
He had initially been arrested by the police investigating another matter and had his computer seized.
He went back to the police a day later where broke down, said he needed a new life and told officers they would find images on the computer.
Taylor was sentenced to 18 weeks in prison, reduced to 12 weeks because of his guilty plea.
The court was told the offences occurred over aperiod of several years.
Magistrates chairman Ann Hewitt told the defendent: “These offences are so serious that custody is the only option open to us. We feel there are many aggravating factors.”
She said Taylor would serve half his sentence and sign the sex offenders register for seven years.
He will also be made the subject of a sexual offences prevention order for seven years prohibiting him from having contact with children under 16.
Defending, Amrit Jandoo urged the magistrates to consider a community service order.
He said: He doesn’t minimise his actions, he appreciates the seriousness of this offence. Mr Taylor is thoroughly ashamed of his behaviour.“
Taylor said his marriage was over, his school job was gone and he was receiving medical care after a breakdown.
“His life has fallen apart,” added Mr Jandoo.
Taylor is employed as a caretaker at Le Cateau Primary School inCatterick Garrison.
A spokesman for North Yorkshire County Council said after the hearing: “A member of non-teaching staff in the Catterick area remains suspended after being sentenced to 12 weeks imprisonment concurrently on two charges of voyeurism and the taking of indecent images.
“These offences do not relate to any child at the school or the neighbouring children’s centre.
“Internal procedures will now be taken forward. Child protection remains the county council’s highest priority and all proper child protection procedures and safeguards are being followed.”