Popular teacher charged by police over recording children
A teacher at an inner-city Brisbane primary school who took his own life during an investigation into allegations he filmed students in changerooms had been charged by police.
Police & Courts
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A popular teacher from an inner-city primary school who took his own life amid allegations he filmed students in change rooms was facing police charges.
Michael Patrick Robertson, a teacher at St Columba’s in Wilston, died yesterday, two days after the school informed parents a police investigation was underway.
His family posted of his death online.
The Courier-Mail has confirmed the 51-year-old was charged by police with making observations or recording in breach of privacy relating to filming children with his mobile phone in the changeroom.
He was due to face court on April 30 before he took his own life.
Parents were sent two emails on Tuesday night, reassuring them their children were not in danger.
“I write to inform you that our school recently became aware of an alleged incident involving one of our staff members,” the principal wrote.
“This matter is now the subject of an ongoing police investigation and in support of this, our school is continuing to assist police in every way we can.
“As this matter is the subject of an ongoing police investigation, I know you will understand that I am not able to provide additional details just at this time.”
Later that evening, the principal sent a second email.
“I write to reassure you that the school is focused on the safety and wellbeing of your children,” he wrote.
“They are our priority. If you have any specific concerns or notice anything that is concerning to you, please contact me again and we will develop a plan to look after your child.
“We would certainly make contact with you if we held any concerns about your child.”
It is understood Mr Robertson came to police attention recently amid allegations he had filmed students at a sporting event.
It is understood detectives were looking at whether he was responsible for creating child exploitation material.
Queensland Police Service declined to comment on the investigation.
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