Richard Whitaker, a 54-year-old former teacher from Leeds, was sentenced to two years in prison at Leeds Crown Court on Wednesday after admitting multiple offences related to indecent images of children.
The court also imposed a 10-year Sexual Harm Prevention Order on Whitaker, along with mandatory registration as a sex offender.
Whitaker pleaded guilty to creating 19 Category A images, which is the most severe classification of indecent photos of children. In addition, he admitted to making 12 Category B and 74 Category C images, as well as distributing Category C images.
As part of his sentence, 16 months were deducted for 40 Category C images that he personally took.
Until July 2024, Whitaker was employed as a teacher at a Leeds school but resigned one week prior to his arrest. Authorities have reassured the local community regarding safeguarding measures following concerns raised.
Detective Constable Andrew Williamson from the Wakefield Child Safeguarding Team commented: “We understand that this sentencing may cause some concern, particularly for parents of pupils at schools where Whitaker taught. The majority of Whitaker’s offending relates to him downloading images made by others. He did admit taking a number of Category C images of a child and that child’s family are already fully aware of this investigation. Should anyone have any information about any other potential offences then I would urge them to come forward to report it.”
Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Wakefield Child Safeguarding Team through the West Yorkshire Police Live Chat or by calling 101.
Originally published by UKNIP.
