Ronald Houghton, 58, appeared in Albany Magistrates Court on Thursday, charged with producing child exploitation material.
BREAKING: Two childcare centres in the Great Southern region have been temporarily closed due to safety concerns following the arrest of a senior staff member’s husband on serious child abuse charges. The Ravensthorpe and Hopetoun branches of the Regional Early Education and Development Inc (REED) announced the closure around 11:30 AM on Friday, citing “real or perceived threats” to staff from community reactions.
This urgent decision comes after Ronald Houghton, 58, was charged on November 6 with two counts of producing child exploitation material and one count of possessing indecent material. All charges are alleged to have occurred in Ravensthorpe this year. Parents received notification via email, expressing distress over the situation and the implications for their children’s safety.
A REED spokesperson confirmed that the organization is “distressed” by the allegations against a relative of an employee. The staff member, Evelyn Houghton, is currently on administrative leave and is reportedly “very distressed” by the situation. REED emphasized that the safety of children and staff is its highest priority and stated, “There is no risk to the children or the community,” according to local police.
Parents have voiced their concerns and frustrations, with many pulling their children from daycare. One mother stated, “For working parents, it’s a nightmare,” highlighting the chaos and uncertainty the situation has caused.
In a statement, REED’s chair, Wendy Newman, reassured families, saying, “We are following all policies to ensure safety at our centres.” While they are committed to maintaining communication with parents, REED will refrain from further comments until due process is complete.
The centres are expected to reopen on Monday, as confirmed by REED. Meanwhile, the Shire of Ravensthorpe expressed its devastation over the allegations against Houghton, noting that there is no immediate threat to the community.
Authorities will continue to investigate the matter, and Houghton’s next court appearance is set for January 22 after he requested time to seek legal advice.
This developing story has raised significant alarm within the community, prompting parents to seek reassurance amid fears for their children’s safety. As the situation unfolds, updates will be provided to keep the public informed.
