Ex-teacher Dean Carelse in Maroochydore court over child grooming and exploitation material charges

A Sunshine Coast former teacher and water polo coach facing child grooming and exploitation material charges will be dealt with in a higher court. Read what happened here.

Dean Carelse leaving Maroochydore Magistrates Court on Wednesday

A former Sunshine Coast private school teacher and water polo coach who is facing child grooming and exploitation material charges after he allegedly filmed a child will have his matters heard in a higher court.

Former Matthew Flinders Anglican College teacher Dean Carelse allegedly filmed a child under the age of 16 on two occasions on November 28, 2020 in Peregian Springs before he groomed a child under the age of 16 to engage in sexual acts between January 1 and February 16 in Tanawha.

The Daily understands police searched the former Matthew Flinders Anglican College teacher’s house on March 20 and seized a number of items.

Police Prosecutor Amanda Brewer told Maroochydore Magistrates Court on Tuesday Mr Carelse was also charged with possessing child exploitation material after movies involving young children were allegedly found in his possession.

In custody, Mr Carelse was arraigned via video link for 25 charges including 14 counts of indecent treatment of a child as well as one of possessing and distributing child exploitation material.

Dean Carelse leaves Maroochydore Magistrates Court on Wednesday, June 2, 2021

Mr Carelse is also charged with five counts of stealing a number of items from the college including water polo and rugby balls, towels and clothing.

Sergeant Brewer said the prosecution’s case will include a total of 12 statements from children and police officers.

Solicitor and town agent Chris Lumme represented Mr Carelse for the committal mention on Tuesday.

Mr Carelse declined to comment and did not enter a plea.

His matters were handed up the Maroochydore District Court for a trial date to be set.

Mr Carelse was remanded in custody.

Originally published as Ex-teacher Dean Carelse in Maroochydore court over child grooming and exploitation material charges