FORMER TEACHER WHO GROOMED STUDENT CONVICTED OF SEX OFFENCES
A man who previously worked as a teacher and exploited his position of trust to assault a girl two decades ago has received a six-year prison sentence for his sexual crimes.Edward Waller, aged 66, was charged by the Crown Prosecution Service’s Specialist Organised Child Sexual Abuse Unit after an investigation conducted by Hampshire Police.
During a court hearing at Portsmouth Crown Court, it was revealed that Waller served as a history instructor at St Anne’s School in Southampton between 2004 and 2006, during which time the victim was between 16 and 17 years old.
Waller was aware that the girl was vulnerable and struggling with personal issues at home.
He started paying her extra attention, initially through private messages.
Over time, his communication turned increasingly sexual, involving sexting and sending nude images of himself.
The situation worsened in December 2005 when Waller, then 46, invited the girl to his residence, where they engaged in sexual activity.
The prosecution presented a compelling case, which resulted in a jury’s verdict on December 3, 2025, finding Waller guilty of sexual activity with a child in a position of trust, as well as two counts of inciting or causing a child to engage in sexual acts.
On February 20, 2026, Waller was sentenced to six years in prison.
Julia McSorley, a Specialist Prosecutor for the CPS, commented on the case, emphasizing that Waller exploited his role as a teacher to manipulate and groom the victim, leaving her with long-lasting emotional effects.
She expressed her gratitude to the victim for her bravery in giving evidence.
McSorley highlighted the CPS’s commitment to prosecuting individuals who exploit children, regardless of the time elapsed, and assured victims of support and thorough investigation of all reports.
She also commended Hampshire Police for their professionalism in securing justice.
This case underlines the importance of vigilance and accountability in preventing abuse and supporting victims in seeking justice.
