Perth principal accused of broadcasting ‘D*** picture’ warns students ahead of arrest from online predators

A school principal accused of sending a “D*** picture” to an undercover cop posing as a teenage girl had frequently warned his students about the dangers of online predators.

Shayne Harris, 53, was sacked as principal at Aveley North Primary School in Perth’s northern suburbs this week after he was charged with exposing a child to indecent things and drug possession.

He is said to have used the username “Die Hard” when chatting with someone he thought was a 14-year-old girl, Perth Magistrates’ Court heard on Thursday.

As the conversation continued on Google Chats, Harris reportedly posted two photos of his face before sending a photo of his genitals.

The 53-year-old, who became a school principal in July, authorized fortnightly newsletters urging parents to monitor how their child uses the internet.

Shayne Harris, 53, (pictured) was sacked as principal at Aveley North Primary School this week after he was accused of exposing a child to indecent behavior and drug possession

In September, a newsletter warned that children who gave too many details about themselves online could attract predators, the West Australian reports.

“Disclosure of this type of information can make them easy targets for online predators and others who might harm them,” the newsletter said.

“In fact, many children say they were contacted online by someone they didn’t know in a way that made them afraid or uncomfortable.”

In December, the newsletter highlighted Omegle, a popular video chat site, and urged students not to use it.

“We have noticed that some students are talking about this website or maybe using it to talk to strangers,” it said.

‘We strongly discourage students from using it.’

In a newsletter published in August, students were asked to consider the type of content they publish on the internet.

“Whenever you’re online, you’re potentially speaking to an unlimited audience, even if you think your conversations are private,” it said.

On Thursday, WA’s Department of Education called for the longtime educator to step down as Aveley North school principal (pictured) over the “incredibly serious” allegations

Mr Harris stood before Perth Magistrates Court (pictured) charged with subjecting a child to an indecent affair and drug possession. He has been granted bail under strict conditions and will appear in court next month

“Taking a moment to think about the content you post can save you aggravation and embarrassment — and even possible legal action or police involvement.”

Police searched the director’s home on Wednesday, where officers allegedly discovered cannabis and drug paraphernalia.

He was arrested and charged with exposing a child to indecent things and drug possession, and was released on bail on Thursday on condition that he surrender his passport, not leave the state and allow access to his internet devices.

Harris’s defense attorney cited the principal’s clean criminal record and extensive career as a principal and teacher in his counter-argument.

On Thursday, Washington’s Department of Education called for the longtime educator to be withdrawn immediately over the “incredibly serious” allegations.

“We expect at all times the highest standards of behavior from all school staff, particularly our principals,” said Acting Principal Melesha Sands.