West Sussex primary school teacher charged with sexual abuse
Joseph Haffenden is accused of crimes against two boys
Last updated 14th Feb 2026
A teacher at a primary school in West Sussex has been charged with the sexual abuse of two boys.
Joseph Haffenden, from the High Street in Lindfield, faces two counts of sexual assault and two counts of false imprisonment between January and February this year.
The 32-year-old has been suspended from his job.
A Sussex Police spokesman confirmed Mr Haffenden appeared at Brighton Magistrates' Court today (Saturday 14th February 2026) where he was remanded in custody to a further court hearing on March 13.
The spokesman added that both alleged victims and their families are being supported by specialist officers.
Detective Superintendent Jay Mendis-Gunasekera from Sussex Police said:
"We acted swiftly as soon as these allegations were received to ensure appropriate safeguarding measures were in place.
"We will continue to engage with our partners and the school to ensure there are no wider concerns as we look ahead to trial."