JOACHIM CASEY FROM WAREHAM JAILED FOR CHILD ABUSE AT WAREHAM MIDDLE SCHOOL

In a case that has shocked the community of Wareham, Joachim Casey, a 48-year-old former acting head teacher at Wareham Middle School, has been sentenced to five years in prison after being found guilty of abusing young boys under his care.

Casey’s criminal actions involved the sexual molestation of two boys, with one of the victims being subjected to abuse starting from the age of nine. The allegations came to light after the school suspended Casey in September of the previous year, once authorities began investigating him. It is important to note that there is no evidence suggesting that Casey committed any abuse within the school premises itself.

The Bournemouth Crown Court heard that Casey, who was once regarded as a respected, church-going individual, was confronted at the school by one of his victims. During this confrontation, the victim recorded the conversation on his mobile phone, which later played a crucial role in the case. The truth started to surface when one of the victims contacted the NSPCC and subsequently made formal allegations to the police. A second victim also came forward, further substantiating the claims against Casey.

Following these revelations, Casey was arrested and subsequently admitted to the abuse of both boys. He pleaded guilty to nine counts of indecent assault, two counts of indecency with children, two counts of sexual activity with a child, and one count of inciting a child to engage in sexual activity. His guilty plea marked a significant moment in the case, highlighting the severity of his crimes.

During the proceedings, Casey’s defense lawyer, Tim Shorter, expressed remorse on his client’s behalf. He stated that Casey was extremely remorseful for his actions and had expressed feelings of self-hatred. In a letter to one of the victims, Casey wrote, “I am so sorry for abusing you both,” indicating his acknowledgment of the harm caused.

Despite his criminal conduct, Casey was described as having been of excellent character in all other aspects of his life. Mr. Shorter emphasized this point, saying, “In every aspect of life, he was considered to be of excellent character,” but he also acknowledged that beneath this facade was a disturbing record of abusing two children from a young age.

Judge Samuel Wiggs sentenced Casey to be placed on the sex offenders register for life and issued a sexual offences prevention order. This order prohibits Casey from having any contact with young people, a measure deemed necessary to prevent further harm to the public. The judge noted that his decision took into account Casey’s previously good character and professional record as a teacher, but emphasized that the safety of the community was paramount.

Following the sentencing, DS Nigel Cullis from the child protection unit at Weymouth expressed gratitude for the bravery of Casey’s victims. He praised their courage in coming forward and reporting the crimes, which allowed justice to be served. DS Cullis also clarified that there was no evidence to suggest that Casey had abused any children at Wareham Middle School itself.

Iain Clark, the headteacher at Wareham Middle School, issued a statement reaffirming the school’s commitment to the safety and well-being of its pupils. He explained that once the allegations surfaced, Casey was immediately suspended and subsequently resigned from his position at the end of October last year. Clark assured parents and the community that the school worked closely with police and safeguarding authorities throughout the investigation, prioritizing the safety of all students involved.