Keith Simmons

Keith Simmons, a 68-year-old retired deputy head teacher from West Looe in Cornwall, was sentenced at Truro Crown Court for downloading and possessing indecent images of children. The case came to light after police received information about his illegal online activities, leading to a search of his home in February 2024.

Upon examination of seized electronic devices, authorities discovered 64 category A indecent images—the most severe classification, often involving penetrative sexual activity and rape of children as young as two—alongside 105 category B images and 190 category C images. The devices also contained the Tor browser, commonly used to access the dark web for such illicit material. Simmons initially denied any knowledge of the content during his police interview, despite the evidence found on his devices.

Simmons, who had a distinguished career in education and helped steer his school out of Ofsted special measures before retiring early at age 65, admitted to charges of making and possessing indecent images of children. In mitigation, his barrister, Ryan Murray, highlighted Simmons' previous good character and community service. Murray explained that Simmons struggled with a loss of purpose after retirement, compounded by the bereavement of his mother's death, which contributed to his 'fall from grace'. He noted that Simmons had been anticipating police intervention and was relieved when it occurred, as he sought help for his issues. Murray added, 'He is unlikely to find himself before the court again and has now found a different hobby. This is a source of great shame for him and this will no doubt be his one and only court appearance.'

Presiding judge, His Honour Judge Simon Carr, rejected the mitigation arguments, emphasising the gravity of the offences. He stated, 'Hundreds of thousands of children are raped every day around the world for the entertainment of people like Simmons. You feed that business by downloading images of children as young as two being raped. You're still in denial you have a sexual interest in children. But people don't download images of children being raped because of early retirement or a bereavement or because they feel a bit bored.' The judge underscored the harm caused by such downloads, which perpetuate the abuse of real children globally.

The sentencing took place in late November 2025, as reported by Cornwall Live. Simmons received an eight-month prison sentence, suspended for 12 months, along with a requirement to complete 15 days of rehabilitation activities and a three-month curfew from 7pm to 7am. He was also added to the sex offenders' register. The case was investigated by Devon and Cornwall Police, highlighting concerns over a former educator's access to children during his career.