Calgary Elementary School Principal Charged with Possession of Child Pornography

A Calgary elementary school principal, Bruce Campbell, is facing charges of possession and access of child pornography. Campbell, 61, was employed at Sacred Heart Elementary School located in Calgary’s Sunalta area. The Alberta Law Enforcement Response Team (ALERT) disclosed the charges against Campbell, accusing him of uploading child sexual abuse materials using the online communications platform, Skype.

According to Staff Sgt. Mark Auger of the Internet Child Exploitation unit at ALERT, the offenses are believed to be confined to online activities. Investigations commenced in January this year after the RCMP‘s national child exploitation unit alerted ALERT about Campbell’s alleged actions.

Searches conducted at Campbell’s residence led to the seizure of various phones and computers. A preliminary examination of these devices revealed the presence of child pornography on Campbell’s work-issued cellphone. However, ALERT clarified that the charges pertain solely to the uploaded photo, with further forensic investigation of Campbell’s gadgets still ongoing.

The Calgary Catholic School District expressed shock and sadness regarding the charges leveled against Campbell. The District confirmed that Campbell is no longer employed within their organization and is fully cooperating with ALERT in its investigation. They have also made available counselors to support students affected by the case.

In 2023, Campbell had received a Queen’s Platinum Jubilee medal, an award recognizing significant Albertan contributions. He was released from custody on several conditions and is scheduled to appear in court on May 10.

ALERT has called for anyone with information related to the case to contact authorities or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS.