A father-of-three and former law lecturer killed himself moments before police were about to arrest him for owning child abuse images. Nicholas Goddard, 62, who had previously received a suspended prison sentence for owning child abuse pictures, shot himself in the head as police arrived at his home. Hours earlier a warrant had been issued for his arrest after he failed to appear at Salisbury Magistrates’ Court where he was due to face nine charges.
He is alleged to have made indecent photographs and owned images of child abuse. His death is now being investigated.
A spokesman said: ‘We have begun an investigation into Wiltshire Police actions prior to the death of Nicholas Goddard in Marlborough. ‘This investigation follows a mandatory referral from Wiltshire Police and is in its early stages. ‘I can confirm we are looking at all aspects of prior police contact including any licensing issues.’
Wiltshire Police said that his death was not being treated as suspicious. A neighbour said: ‘I thought he was a beautiful lovely English gentleman. He was very friendly. It shows how wrong you can be.’