A Tasmania Police officer decorated for his work with at-risk youth has been granted bail after being charged with accessing child abuse material.
Sergeant Dale Geoffrey Cook, 54, was arrested at his home in Launceston late last month after an anti-child exploitation taskforce executed search warrants and seized electronic devices that allegedly contained child abuse content.
The raids followed a report from the United States National Center for Missing and Exploited Children about an online user allegedly transmitting child exploitation material.
Cook was immediately suspended from duty after being charged, and then faced Launceston Magistrates Court where he received bail.
Tasmania Police has since confirmed to ABC News that Cook worked at the Police and Community Youth Club (PCYC) in Launceston between 2001 and 2004.
Cook was last year awarded the Commissioner’s Medal Clasp for 30 years service and was praised for his work with at-risk youth and youth offenders, but Tasmania Police said medal is now under review as part of the investigation into Cook.
“Throughout Sergeant Dale Cook’s career, he has significantly improved collaboration between Tasmania Police and external stakeholders when dealing with issues related to ‘At Risk’ youth and youthful crime,’ Tasmania Police said while announcing the medal.
“A strong supporter of restorative practices, he advocates for the rights of young people, utilising his influence and professional relationships within the community.”
Header image credit: Neighbourhood Watch Tasmania.
