A former school chaplain from North Wales has been spared jail after he was caught with indecent images of children.
Samuel Erlandson, 36, of Ruabon, was sentenced to 36 weeks in prison, suspended for 18 months, at Llandudno Magistrates’ Court on Monday.
He had previously admitted three charges, including two counts of making indecent images of a child and possession of an extreme pornographic image.
He was placed on the sex offenders’ register for 10 years and ordered to carry out 160 hours of unpaid work and pay £272 in costs.
Detective Constable Matthew Hoyle from North Wales Police said the offences were “deeply concerning”.
He said Erlandson “held a position of trust at the school he taught, within the Church in Wales and the community”.
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“His actions have understandably caused distress to many, who once trusted and respected him,” he added.
“Thankfully, he can no longer work with children which will prevent any further harm.
“The creation and distribution of indecent images of children causes immeasurable harm to victims and their families and we are committed to bringing to justice anyone who commits sexual offences, whether in person or online.”
A spokesperson for the Church in Wales said it was “appalled and saddened” by the offences.
“Our prayers are with the victims in this case, and all victims of abuse,” they added.
“Immediately following his arrest, Mr Erlandson’s permission to officiate as a cleric was removed.”
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The Church in Wales said its disciplinary tribunal would “consider further appropriate action” once criminal proceedings had concluded.
The spokesperson added that there was “no place for any form of abuse in the Church in Wales” and it “regularly” reviewed its safeguarding procedures.
