Perth maths teacher charged with child exploitation offences
A maths teacher has been arrested on school grounds and charged with child exploitation offences in Perth.
Robert Messina, 51, from John Septimus Roe Anglican Community School in Mirrabooka allegedly had sexually explicit conversations online with a person he believed was a young boy.
Western Australia Police allege he sent sexual images with the intention of procuring the child, under 13, for sexual activity.
READ MORE: All Australian 7-Eleven stores sold in $1.7 billion deal
Roberto Charles Messina, 51, from John Septimus Roe Anglican Community School in Mirrabooka. Nine
The charges do not relate to the school's students. Nine
Detectives raided Messina's Wattle Grove home and seized multiple electronic devices yesterday.
His charges do not relate to students at the school.
A letter told parents Messina's employment had been terminated immediately.
The letter said he had met "all government and school child safe checks".
Messina is in police custody and has been charged with intent to procure a person believed to be under 13 years for sexual activity, possessing child exploitation material and distributing it.
Counselling is being offered to the school community.
Share a tip-off, video or photo with us
Most viewed in Australia
Hastie rules out legal action against Hanson as bitter war of words escalates
‘Not one phone call, letter… nothing’: Family’s distress over huge ‘redevelopment’ project at famous Perth cemetery
Man clings to ‘getaway’ Mercedes in drama in Melbourne car park
Boxing coach’s shooting death not linked to gang feud, but police probe bikie links