Calgary elementary school principal charged with child porn offences

A Calgary elementary school principal has been charged with child pornography offences after abusive images and videos were found on his work-issued cellphone, investigators allege.

Bruce Campbell, 61, is charged with possessing and accessing child pornography. 

Campbell was the principal at Sacred Heart Elementary School in the southwest community of Sunalta. 

"We believe these offences are solely related to online activities, but can appreciate how parents and students would be shocked and concerned about these charges," said Staff Sgt. Mark Auger with the Alberta Law Enforcement Response Team's (ALERT) internet child exploitation (ICE) unit.

'Position of trust'

In January 2024, ALERT was notified about an upload of child sexual abuse materials via Skype. 

Campbell is accused of uploading child sexual abuse materials via Skype. ALERT was notified of the upload in January by the RCMP's National Child Exploitation Crime Centre.

Investigators executed a search warrant at the principal's home, and his computer and phones were seized. 

A forensic analysis of the devices found child sexual abuse materials on his work-issued cellphone, according to ALERT.

"While the investigation and charges are related to online offences, the nature of Campbell's employment placed him in a position of trust and authority," said ALERT in a statement provided Monday. 

School board 'shocked and saddened'

Campbell is no longer employed with the Calgary Catholic School District (CCSD), according to the organization.

In a written statement provided to CBC News, CCSD said it is "shocked and saddened by this information."

"We take these allegations very seriously and are fully cooperating with ALERT in their investigation," said CCSD.

"The safety of our students and staff is our top priority … our thoughts and prayers are with anyone who has been impacted."

CCSD says counsellors are available to support students.

ICE is encouraging anyone with information about this case to contact police.

After his arrest, Campbell was released on a number of court-imposed conditions.

Campbell was a 2022 recipient of a Queen's Platinum Jubilee Medal, which recognizes significant contributions of Albertans. 

Campbell is due back in court next month.