A Perth principal accused of possessing child exploitation material has died.
Paul Whitehead, 56, was charged earlier this month after detectives raided his Ellenbrook home and seized a number of electronic devices which allegedly had child exploitation material on them.
Former Bold Park Community School principal, Paul Whitehead.
The alleged offences occurred while Whitehead was principal at private school, Bold Park Community School, which has campuses in Wembley and Maylands. Having worked at the school since 2010, he was on long service leave when he was arrested.
WA Police said it did not have any evidence that the school’s students were depicted in the recovered material.
Whitehead was facing three charges including possessing child exploitation material, unlawfully possessing a prescription drug and failing to obey an order.
He was due to appear in Midland Magistrates Court this morning, however, his lawyer, Carole MacKay appeared on his behalf, and informed the court he died yesterday.
The circumstances of his death are not yet known, however WA Police confirmed the death was not being treated as suspicious.
Shortly after his arrest, his school released a statement expressing their shock and reinforcing its commitment to providing a safe and nurturing space for students.
In a statement, acting principal, Felicity Kinsell, said the school had been informed of Whitehead’s sudden passing.
“This news has come as a shock, and our thoughts and condolences are with his family and
friends during this difficult time,” she said.
“Counselling is being ordered to members of our community who feel they would like support.
“Our Bold Park Community School spirit has always been resilient, and together, we will navigate
this challenging period with care and unity.”
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