Investigation into alleged sex offences by ‘lone individual’ at nursery continues
Police are continuing to investigate alleged sex offences at a nursery in Devon.
Officers launched an inquiry on July 29 after receiving information relating to Jack and Jill Childcare in Torquay.
A male member of staff was arrested and has since been released on police bail until January 22.
Devon and Cornwall Police said the suspect has moved out of the force area while investigations continue.
Acting Detective Chief Inspector James Stock said it was believed the case involved a “lone individual”.
“As part of this, over 250 hours of CCTV from within Jack and Jill Childcare have been reviewed,” he said.
“As a result of CCTV inquiries, a number of children aged two plus have been identified as potential victims of contact offences.
“We have now contacted all parents and guardians of children who attended Jack and Jill Childcare in relation to our investigation.
“Specialist officers from the Public Protection Unit and our colleagues from social services have visited the parents and guardians of those children we believe may be victims.
“They will continue to receive multi-agency support in the coming days, weeks and months.
“The contact appears to be limited to within the nursery setting and we do not believe that any other member of staff had knowledge of these matters.
“These appear to be the actions of a lone individual, and the offences do not involve the taking or distributing of any images.”
Mr Stock said the suspect was “immediately removed” from the nursery and has been given strict bail conditions.
Following investigations “a number of concerns around safeguarding matters” were raised by police.
Ofsted suspended the nursery’s licence on October 24.
Nancy Meehan, deputy director of Torbay children’s services, said: “We take safeguarding children incredibly seriously, and we are working closely with partners including the police in relation to this matter.
“A helpline has been set up by the Torbay Safeguarding Children’s Partnership, and is hosted by the local authority for anyone who may have concerns.
“This can be accessed on 01803 208820 between 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday.”
Copyright (c) PA Media Ltd. 2019, All Rights Reserved. Picture (c) Ben Birchall / PA Wire.
