Child porn images found at Garda HQ

GARDAÍ are investigating one of their colleagues after child pornography was found on a computer at Garda headquarters.

It is thought the internet images had been downloaded onto the computer for over a year.

A garda, married and in his 30s, has been interviewed by investigators.

The garda’s home in north Dublin has been searched and a home computer taken away.

The operation began last month when garda management discovered the child pornography on a computer in the administrative section in Garda headquarters in Dublin’s Phoenix Park.

A garda spokeswoman yesterday said: “As a result of issues discovered by garda management at garda headquarters we can confirm that an investigation is being carried out by the National Bureau of Criminal Investigation into allegations under the Child Trafficking and Pornography Act, 1998.”

The Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence Unit, which is part of the NBCI, is conducting the investigation.

The spokeswoman said the investigation was in line with similar ongoing investigations under the Act. She said that a number of items had been seized by gardaí for examination.

Officers stressed yesterday that the investigation was in its early stages and that the garda at the centre of the investigation had not been arrested or suspended.

“No arrests have been made and it has to be borne in mind, that like all other such matters, these are allegations until proven or otherwise,” said the garda spokeswoman.

It is understood that gardai from the Sexual Assault Unit set up a small surveillance operation on the computer once informed by garda management.

It is thought the computer was used by several gardaí as it had an internet connection, widening the potential list of suspects.

Investigators narrowed down those who used the computer during their surveillance operation. Officers from the internet monitoring section of the unit were involved.

Gardaí have taken the computer in the administrative office as well as the home PC away for detailed forensic examination.

A garda spokeswoman said a file was been prepared for the Director of Public Prosecutions.

Under the Child Pornography and Trafficking Act 1998, it is not an offence to view child pornography. However, it is an offence to download it.

People convicted of possessing child pornography can face up to five years in jail. Those convicted of producing or distributing it face prison sentences of up to 14 years.

The investigation is not part of Operation Amethyst, a countrywide crackdown on child porn conducted last May, which has led to a number of charges being brought against suspects.