JOHN PURDY STRUCK OFF IN NORFOLK OVER CHILD INDECENT IMAGES

In a significant disciplinary action, John Purdy, a nurse with three decades of experience based in Norfolk, has been formally removed from the nursing register following serious allegations related to indecent images of children. The case came to light after authorities discovered that Purdy had downloaded a collection of inappropriate images, which led to his police caution in January 2011 and his subsequent registration on the sex offenders' register.

Specifically, police found 75 images stored on his home computer, prompting immediate concern and investigation. The Norfolk and Waveney Mental Health Trust, where Purdy was employed, promptly notified the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) about his arrest and the findings. The NMC’s Conduct and Competence Committee reviewed the case, concluding that Purdy’s conduct demonstrated an “unhealthy interest in children,” which severely compromised his fitness to practice as a healthcare professional.

During the hearing, it was revealed that Purdy had accessed websites with titles that clearly indicated questionable content. Although he claimed that the images were downloaded accidentally, the police classified all the images as Level One, indicating the least serious category. These images involved provocative poses but did not include nudity. The panel noted that there was no evidence of genuine remorse or apology from Purdy, and he had not taken any steps to prevent future incidents.

While Purdy did not work directly with children, the committee emphasized that his actions posed a risk to public trust and the reputation of the nursing profession. The panel determined that the only appropriate course of action was to impose a Striking Off Order, effectively removing him from the professional register. An interim suspension was ordered to last for 18 months, allowing for the possibility of an appeal.

During the proceedings, Purdy requested a private hearing, citing concerns that his wife, also employed within the NHS, might face embarrassment or damage to her reputation if details of the case became public. However, the committee rejected this request, asserting that the public interest in maintaining professional standards and safeguarding the community outweighed individual privacy concerns. The decision underscores the seriousness with which the NMC treats breaches involving the exploitation of children and the importance of maintaining public confidence in healthcare professionals in Norfolk.