Nottinghamshire teacher jailed for child sex offences

A former teacher who abused his position at a Nottinghamshire school has been sentenced to 18 months in prison after pleading guilty to child sex offences.

Kenneth David Topham, 51, of Hampden Cresent, Lindhome, Doncaster, admitted five counts of sexual activity with a child while in a position of trust and three counts of causing or inciting a child to engage in sexual activity while in a position of trust at an earlier hearing.

Appearing at Nottingham Crown Court today (Friday 20 March), he was told he will serve 18 months in prison.

Topham groomed the victim, who was in her teens at the time, into believing that he loved her and intended to marry her.

He then encouraged sexual activity for his own gratification.

DC Louise Gowan, who investigated the case, said: “Topham consciously became close to the victim, exchanging text messages and making her believe he had feelings for her.

This was a total fabrication as he had no intention of having any long term relationship with her.

Teachers, like police officers and doctors, are in a position of trust and if they abuse that position, they deserve to be brought to justice for their actions.

“Topham pleaded guilty and spared the victim from a trial, however she still has to live with the consequences of what happened, while he will have time in prison to contemplate his actions.”