A former schoolteacher in Portsmouth has been sentenced to 12 years in prison for sexually abusing pupils over a six-year period from 2007 to 2013. Sean Jack Aldridge, who previously taught at Warblington School in Havant, was convicted of 25 counts of child sex offences, including abusing his position of trust.
Aldridge’s offences involved four schoolgirls who were under his care during his time as a teacher. The jury heard disturbing details throughout the three-week trial held at Portsmouth Crown Court. While the jury was unable to reach a verdict on two additional charges, Aldridge, aged 37 and residing on Edmund Road in Southsea, received a substantial prison sentence and was placed on the sex offenders register.
Detective Inspector Toby Elcock praised the victims for their courage in coming forward, stating, “Children expect to be safe at school, but Aldridge betrayed that trust. He groomed young girls into a twisted sexual relationship and tried to silence them for years. Even when contacted by police in 2010 and 2012, the girls felt too scared to speak out.”
He added, “Thanks to their courage today, justice has been served. Our Operation Marmion team worked tirelessly to bring this vile predator to book. We hope this verdict helps other victims find the strength to come forward.”
The police are urging anyone affected by child sexual abuse to contact them confidentially on 101. Specialist detectives are available to listen and provide support to victims seeking justice.
Originally published by UKNIP.
