EDWARD RYAN FROM GREAT DUNMOW JAILED FOR SEXUAL ASSAULTS ON YOUNG GIRL IN HARLOW

In September 2017, a disturbing case involving the sexual abuse of a very young girl has culminated in the conviction and imprisonment of Edward Ryan, a 67-year-old former teacher and school governor from Great Dunmow. The incident took place at a primary school in Harlow, where Ryan engaged in a series of inappropriate and criminal acts against one of his pupils.

Between September 15 and October 20, 2015, Ryan molested the young girl on four separate occasions during private lessons. The victim, whose identity remains protected for legal reasons, confided in her father about the abuse, which ultimately led to Ryan’s arrest and trial. It was only after her disclosure that authorities became aware of the misconduct, highlighting the importance of children feeling safe to speak out about abuse.

Rather than accepting responsibility, Ryan chose to contest the charges. During the trial at Chelmsford Crown Court, he denied four counts of sexually assaulting a child under the age of 13. The court proceedings included a video-linked testimony from the young girl, who was required to give evidence in a controlled environment. The jury, composed of twelve members, deliberated and found Ryan guilty on all counts on the afternoon of Monday, September 18.

Throughout the trial, the victim was cross-examined by prosecutor Sasha Bailey. She described how Ryan would have her sit on his knee while he committed the assaults, often while she was trying to focus on her schoolwork. The girl, clutching a teddy bear for comfort, broke down emotionally as she recounted the abuse she endured at Ryan’s hands.

Her distress was compounded by conflicting advice from friends, one of whom suggested that her experiences might be “normal.” It was only after she began experiencing a “stinging” sensation when passing urine that she confided in her father. In a heartfelt statement, her father recounted her words: “She said, ‘Daddy, can I tell you something, I’m frightened to tell you something.’ I simply said, ‘Darling, you can tell me anything you like.’ She said, ‘The thing is, Mr Ryan had been putting his fingers inside my knickers.’” Her father reassured her that she had done nothing wrong and expressed concern over her distress.

Following the conviction, Judge David Turner QC sentenced Edward Ryan to four years in prison. Throughout the trial, Ryan was supported by his wife, but the court’s decision reflects the severity of his crimes and the impact on his young victim. The case underscores the importance of vigilance and the need for children to be protected from sexual predators, especially those in positions of trust and authority.