Teacher-Turned-Paedophile Caught Hiding Spy Cameras to Film Boys
A Newton Abbot man has been jailed for secretly filming young boys over a five-year nightmare. David Yilma, 44, a Czech national and former teacher, was slammed with a 38-month prison term at Exeter Crown Court on 16 January 2025 following shocking covert camera crimes.
Covert Cameras Hidden in Schools and Homes
Yilma pulled off an elaborate spying scheme by hiding covert cameras in everyday objects. The gadgets included a Wi-Fi router and even a cotton bud box, rigged to secretly record boys in private and school settings in Suffolk.
The vile operation was exposed when someone spotted a live feed from one of Yilma’s hidden cameras streaming on his tablet. Police swooped and uncovered a trove of disturbing footage, alongside child abuse material sourced from the dark web.
Multiple Offences, Guilty Pleas and Court Rebuke
- Four counts of voyeurism
- Three counts of making indecent images of children
- One count of possessing prohibited images of children
- Two counts of producing indecent images of children
Yilma pleaded guilty to these charges but denied two counts of sexual activity with a child—charges which were later dropped. Prosecutor Simon Burns described his efforts as “elaborate, highly skilled, professional installation of covert cameras” — sometimes using handheld devices.
Judge David Evans blasted Yilma, saying: “You are an IT specialist and abused your role as a teacher and misused your knowledge of technology to facilitate these offences.”
The judge called Yilma “a danger to young boys” who recorded seven boys during private moments. He also condemned Yilma’s dream of opening a boys’ school in the Czech Republic, hoping it never happens.
Police Speak Out and Support Available for Victims
Detective Constable Natalie Mawson said: “My thoughts are with those affected by David Yilma’s actions. Their trust was brutally broken by someone who should have protected them. I welcome the sentence passed by the judge today.”
If you or someone you know has been affected, support is available:
- Victim Support: 0808 16 89 111
- Devon and Cornwall Police Victim Care Unit: 01392 475900
- Stop It Now: Anonymous help and resources at Stop It Now
This chilling case is a stark reminder to stay vigilant and protect vulnerable children from predators who exploit trust and technology.
