Teacher Charged with Child Grooming and Abuse Material Offenses
Benjamin David Collinge, a casual teacher at Sydney's Newington College, has been arrested and charged following an investigation by the New South Wales Police Sex Crimes Squad.
The Accused and Allegations
Benjamin David Collinge was arrested at his residence in Beecroft. Police allege Mr. Collinge used social media to initiate contact with a 14-year-old girl, posing as a 17-year-old boy.
Authorities state that between March 18 and the time of the arrest, the accused allegedly encouraged the girl to send sexually explicit images in exchange for money. Police have stated the girl was not known to Mr. Collinge.
Investigation and Arrest
The investigation began after the girl informed her parents of the communications, who then reported the matter to authorities. Mr. Collinge was arrested at approximately 5:45 AM on Thursday.
During a subsequent search of the accused's devices, police reportedly located child abuse material. Police have stated they are not currently aware of the teacher targeting other children online but that the investigation will determine if other individuals have been affected.
Legal Proceedings
Mr. Collinge was charged with:
- Using a carriage service to groom a child under 16 years for sex
- Using a carriage service to access child abuse material
He was refused bail and appeared at Burwood Local Court. He is scheduled to appear in court again in April.
School's Response
Newington College Headmaster Michael Parker informed the school community that Mr. Collinge's employment had been terminated. The school confirmed that Mr. Collinge held various casual roles within the music department across the senior, Wyvern House, and Lindfield campuses since 2015.
The school stated that during his employment, he had completed mandatory child protection training, possessed a valid working with children check, and no prior complaints had been made regarding his behavior. The school further confirmed that none of its students were affected by the alleged offenses.
Background
The arrest was conducted as part of Strike Force Trawler, an ongoing police operation investigating online child sexual abuse and exploitation.