Abuse By A Teacher

A primary school teacher has been sentenced to six-and-a-half years for sexually abusing young boys, at York Crown Court. Howard Beattie, 52, of Main Street, Knapton, York, abused five boys over a 15-year period. The Recorder of York Judge Paul Hoffman heard the offences began in 1977 when Beattie was a newly-qualified teacher at a school in the city. Beattie had formed a "more intense relationship" with one of his victims and the abuse continued for several years.

When interviewed Beattie denied the allegations, but changed his plea to guilty on the opening day of the trial. He admitted 10 indecent assaults and three counts of committing indecency with a child. Two other charges of sexual activity with a child were not pursued.

The judge advised that his offences spanned a total period of 15 years and that he had committed offences against very young children aged 10 to 11 who were vulnerable and impressionable. In committing these offences he was guilty of a serious breach of trust. Beattie was ordered to sign the sex offenders register and disqualified from working with children.

It may be that the victims of terrible crimes such as this can obtain further redress in the form of compensation for their suffering for support, counselling or other medical treatment to assist in their recovery.

If you or someone you know has been subjected to abuse by a teacher please contact our specialist team for free advice.