A police officer who also worked as a childcare provider is now embroiled in a serious legal battle, facing multiple charges for allegedly creating and possessing explicit images and videos involving young children. This shocking case has come to light as new allegations surface, accusing the officer of targeting children under the age of six.

David William James, aged 27, is at the center of these accusations, which span various locations in Sydney’s north and the city itself. These incidents reportedly occurred at six out-of-school centers between April 2021 and May 2024.

Initially, James was charged with 22 offenses related to the production and possession of child abuse material, along with two charges of intentionally sexually touching a child under ten. However, in a significant development, prosecutors have added six more charges to the list.

The latest accusations include three counts of producing child abuse material and three counts of performing a sexual act involving the filming of a child under 16 for the purpose of creating such material. This brings the total number of charges against James to 31.

Despite this growing list of allegations, court documents indicate that 13 of these charges, including those related to child sexual touching, may be dropped. As the legal proceedings continue, the community watches closely, awaiting further developments in this deeply troubling case.

James is now facing a total of 31 charges, although court records show 13 of those – including the child sexual touching allegations – are expected to be withdrawn. 

The former probationary constable was expected to enter pleas to the charges against him in Sydney’s Downing Centre Local Court today, but instead the matter was adjourned. 

There had been “slight changes” to the facts which James needed to be consulted about before the matter could proceed, the prosecutor disclosed while asking for an adjournment. 

Pleas will be entered when the matter returns to court shortly before Christmas, the court was told. 

The 27-year-old had been employed as a probationary constable but, after failing to pass his probation, continued in a civilian capacity until his resignation in May 2023.

NSW Police said they were unaware he was working in the childcare sector at the same time.

James came to the attention of Australian Federal Police investigators after they found child abuse material on the dark web, saying they traced it back to him in June 2024.

Around 1200 parents at the six centres where the alleged offences took place were contacted by federal investigators.

But James’ arrest raised more fears among parents after it was revealed he worked casually at nearly 60 centres over several years, including some of Sydney’s most elite schools.

James’ arrest sparked calls for better information-sharing about staff amid a nationwide reckoning in the childcare sector.

NSW Premier Chris Minns flagged tougher working-with-children requirements in August and childcare operators say a national register is a top priority, along with real-time notifications of staff under investigation.

Kids Helpline 1800 55 1800.

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