Hastings teacher found guilty of abusing boys at children’s home in 1970s
Roland Simmons, now 77, abused young boys at Guestling House
A former teacher has been found guilty of sexual abuse at a children’s home in Hastings five decades ago.
Roland Simmons, now 77, abused young boys at Guestling House, a residential children’s home, in the 1970s.
Simmons, a former teacher at the home, was convicted of 10 charges of indecent assault dating from 1974 to 1979.
The abuse was reported by four men, now in their 60s, who had been placed in the care of the home as children.
Simmons was reportedly persistent in his abuse, approaching one victim multiple times and requesting private meetings, which the victim consistently refused.
Following a trial at Lewes Crown Court, Simmons was found guilty of the offences committed against the young residents.
Catherine Wear, a Senior Crown Prosecutor from the Crown Prosecution Service, commented on the profound betrayal of trust involved.
“Simmons was supposed to be caring for these boys, but instead he abused the trust placed in him, knowing that the boys would struggle to speak out and report what was happening to them," Simmons said.
Wear further commended the courage of the victims for coming forward despite the trauma from their experiences.
She acknowledged the long-lasting impacts of abuse and noted their bravery in ensuring Simmons faced justice for his crimes.
“The trauma of sexual abuse can stop victims from making complaints for many years, but these men had the courage to come forward and report what happened to them and by doing so, have ensured that Simmons has been brought to justice for his appalling crimes.”