CHRISTOPHER BATTENBO FROM MIDDLESBROUGH JAILED FOR SEXUAL OFFENSES WITH TEEN PUPIL IN REDCAR

In a case that has sent shockwaves through the Middlesbrough community, Christopher Battenbo, a 27-year-old science teacher from Ingleby Barwick, was sentenced to two years in prison after admitting to engaging in sexual activities with a 15-year-old pupil. The incident unfolded in the town of Redcar, where the teacher was employed at a local school.

According to court proceedings at Teesside Crown Court, Battenbo, who was married at the time, arranged to meet the girl at a hotel for sexual encounters. The court heard that the relationship between the teacher and the pupil began through online interactions, specifically in internet chat rooms, where they communicated regularly. The girl, whose identity remains protected, sent Battenbo text messages indicating her desire to meet outside of school hours, which he accepted.

Prosecutor Jeremy Hill-Baker detailed that the girl was willing to develop a sexual relationship with Battenbo, even expressing love for him during police interviews. The court was informed that the affair lasted from January to July 2003, during which Battenbo engaged in unlawful sexual intercourse and committed two counts of indecent assault.

Rumors about the teacher’s inappropriate conduct circulated among students and staff at the Redcar school, leading to Battenbo’s suspension and eventual dismissal. The scandal has also had personal repercussions, with his wife initiating divorce proceedings amid the fallout.

During the trial, Battenbo’s defense attorney, Tom Moran, argued that his client was not a predatory individual but was feeling isolated due to his wife’s focus on adopting a young girl. Moran stated, “He is not a sexual predator. His wife is now divorcing him, and she alone will be adopting the little girl. He has brought shame upon himself and his family.”

However, Judge Peter Fox QC was unequivocal in his sentencing, emphasizing the gravity of Battenbo’s breach of duty. The judge remarked, “Although this girl seems to have made the running and appears to be perfectly willing as regards all that occurred between you, you must have known from start to finish that you were in grave, serious breach of your duty to her.”

As part of his punishment, Battenbo was prohibited from working with young people for the next 15 years and was ordered to register as a sex offender for a decade. The case highlights the ongoing concerns about safeguarding and the importance of vigilance in educational environments, especially in communities like Middlesbrough and Redcar where the incident took place.