Survivor speaks out after teacher jailed for historic sexual abuse
Anthony Woolford sentenced to 12 years for offences dating back nearly 40 years
Anthony Woolford, a former teacher, has been jailed for 12 years at Guildford Crown Court for rape, indecent assault, and possession of indecent images that took place nearly 40 years ago.
The offences occurred in the late 1980s when Woolford groomed a teenage pupil, initiating abuse on school premises and at his home under the guise of church visits.
The victim identified herself in photographs discovered in Woolford's possession during a separate investigation in 2018 and bravely came forward in 2023.
Despite Woolford's persistent denial of the allegations, the survivor courageously addressed the court, emphasizing the ongoing impact of the abuse on her life but asserting her refusal to let Woolford's actions define her.
"For the first time, I am not carrying this alone," she stated, highlighting the cathartic process of reporting and standing up for herself and other victims.
Detective Constable Fiona Clare praised the survivor's courage, noting that her actions have protected others from potential harm given Woolford's assessed risk to re-offend.
Surrey Police urges anyone affected by sexual offences, regardless of when they occurred, to report them using their online resources.