Former Plymouth teacher jailed for sexual abuse of two students
54-year-old Anthony Redmond used his position to groom and abuse the girls
A former teacher from Plymouth has been jailed for three years and nine months after being convicted of sexual abuse against two students.
Anthony Redmond, 54, of Fort Austin Avenue, betrayed his position of trust by abusing two girls while working at school and sixth form in Plymouth in the 2000s.
He was sentenced today (February 10th) at Plymouth Crown Court, after being convicted of seven counts of abuse of position of trust by engaging in sexual activity, including three counts involving full intercourse, and one count of indecency with a child.
Restraining orders were also issued to prevent him from contacting the victims.
The court heard Redmond used his status as a Geography teacher and band musician at Notre Dame School and sixth form to groom his victims.
He continued to work at the school and sixth form until being suspended when the allegations were made.
The first offence relating to the first victim took place in the 2000s when she was aged 15, taking her to a hotel alongside a friend and inciting sexual activity.
After she turned 16, Redmond continued his abuse at a party.
Officers later identified a second victim, who disclosed a sexual relationship with Redmond while she attended the school's sixth form.
She was 16 when the abuse began, occurring at Redmond’s home, a hotel, and inside the school.
The abuse continued while the victim was at university until her family became aware.
Later, discussions between the victims revealed simultaneous abuse by Redmond.
During sentencing, the victims described the long-term psychological impact of Redmond’s actions.
At the sentencing hearing Judge Robert Linford described the offending as ‘predatory behaviour’, stating that Redmond betrayed the trust put in him.
Officer in the case Detective Sergeant Luke Portch said: “I want to acknowledge the courage and strength shown by the victims in coming forward.
“Teachers are entrusted with the care, safety, and wellbeing of children and young people, and that trust was gravely abused in this case.
“Speaking about sexual abuse, regardless of when it occurred, is incredibly difficult.
“Their willingness to report what happened has not only led to justice in this case, but will hopefully help others who have been victims of abuse to come forward.
“The passage of time does not lessen the seriousness of these offences, and this outcome demonstrates that reports of non-recent abuse will be taken seriously and thoroughly investigated.
“If anyone has experienced abuse, whether recently or in the past, I would encourage them to contact the Police. Support is available, and you will be listened to."