11.02.2015

Former Pupils Came Forward To Support The Case

A retired PE teacher who taught at Illmington Road Comprehensive School in Weoley Castle has been convicted of sexually abusing schoolboys almost 60 years ago.

Marcus Marcussen, 91, was found guilty of 25 counts of indecent assault on 12 boys between 1957 and 1978 at Birmingham Crown Court.

West Midlands Crown Prosecution Service spokeswoman Jeanette Bryant said: "Marcus Marcussen was a serial sexual predator who over three decades abused his position of trust and preyed on young vulnerable victims for his own sexual gratification."

The former teacher was arrested after one of his victims, who attended the school in the 70s, came forward and reported what happened to them after PE lessons at the Square Club swimming club.

Ms Bryant thanked all of the victims who came forward to support the prosecution and commended their courage for speaking out about their abuser.

Expert Opinion

This is yet another example of people in a position of trust, in this case a teacher, taking advantage of their access to young people. <br/> <br/>“While the conviction is no doubt a relief to the survivors, the top priority now is ensuring those affected are able to access the help and support they need to overcome the psychological and physical impact of the sexual abuse they suffered. <br/> <br/>“High-profile cases such as this can help to highlight the issue of sexual abuse and give survivors the confidence to come forward, as they did in this case, knowing that their allegations will be taken seriously and investigated thoroughly.” Luke Daniels - Partner