Former Seaford teacher convicted of sexual offences against children
Victims from Newlands School disclose decades-old abuse
A former religious education teacher at Newlands School in Seaford has been convicted of non-recent sexual offences against children, following an extensive investigation by police.
David Clarke, 82, from Main Road, Brancaster Staithe, Norfolk, was found guilty of multiple counts of abuse against 14 male victims during his tenure at the school between 1978 and 1989.
The investigation targeted allegations from former pupils across the preparatory and sixth form, as well as the senior school known as The Manor.
Clarke's offences primarily occurred in a dark room used for developing photographs, where he would take students through a photography club he operated.
Charged with 39 counts of indecent assault, five counts of indecent assault of a child, and individual counts of buggery of a boy under 16 and making an indecent photograph of a child, Clarke faced trial at Brighton Crown Court.
He was found guilty of all charges except one count of attempted buggery on Monday, 13th April.
Clarke has been remanded in custody ahead of his sentencing at Brighton Crown Court on 1st June.
Investigator Nicky Beard spoke about the conviction, recognising the strength of Clarke’s victims in their pursuit of justice:
“David Clarke’s victims have had to live with the impacts of his appalling crimes, while he likely thought he would escape punishment."
“He has now faced justice, in no small part thanks to the incredible bravery of these 12 men in coming forward and reporting to the police."
“I do not underestimate how difficult this process has been for them, facing trauma they have held since childhood. I hope this outcome provides some measure of closure."
Beard emphasised the seriousness of addressing non-recent offences, stating, “This outcome shows no matter how long ago offending took place, we will do all we can to hold perpetrators to justice and support victims. If you are a victim of sexual offending, even non-recently, please report it to us online or via 101.”