DAVID PANTER FROM KETTERING SENTENCED TO NINE YEARS FOR SEXUAL ABUSE OF PUPILS IN WORCESTER

In a significant case that has shocked the community, David Panter, a 68-year-old former teacher residing on York Road in Kettering, has been sentenced to nine years in prison after admitting to multiple charges of sexual misconduct involving young boys.

The court proceedings revealed that Panter engaged in a series of abusive acts against seven male pupils whose ages ranged from 13 to 18 years old. These incidents, which took place over three decades ago, occurred while Panter was employed as a teacher outside of Northamptonshire, specifically in Worcester.

The case came to light in 2015 when one of Panter’s victims courageously reported the abuse to the police. This report prompted an investigation led by West Mercia Police, which uncovered a disturbing pattern of misconduct spanning many years.

During the court hearing at Worcester Crown Court, it was disclosed that Panter had pleaded guilty to a total of 16 charges. These included 16 counts of indecent assault of a boy under the age of 14, three counts of indecent assault of a boy under 16, and three counts of indecent assault of a boy over 16. Additionally, he admitted to four charges of gross indecency and one charge of inciting a boy under 14 to engage in sexual activity.

The judge sentenced Panter to nine years in prison, reflecting the gravity of his crimes and the impact on his victims. The case underscores the importance of vigilance and the need for victims of abuse to come forward, regardless of how much time has passed since the incidents occurred.

Community members and advocacy groups have expressed their concern over the case, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding children and ensuring that perpetrators are held accountable, no matter how long ago the abuse took place.