JOHN MORTON SHOCKS GLOSSOP WITH HISTORIC ABUSE CASE AT ST MARY'S SCHOOL

In a case that has sent shockwaves through the community of Glossop, John Morton, a former teacher at St Mary’s Roman Catholic School on Gladstone Street, has been convicted of multiple counts of indecent assault against young girls. The allegations span over a decade, with the abuse occurring during music lessons that Morton conducted both at the victims' homes and at the school itself.

Morton, now 70 years old and residing on Silk Street in Glossop, was sentenced at Derby Crown Court on Thursday, June 20. He pleaded guilty to six counts of indecent assault involving six girls aged between seven and eleven at the time of the abuse. The court sentenced him to two years for each count, with all sentences to be served concurrently, and ordered him to be placed on the sex offenders register for a period of ten years.

The abuse reportedly took place during music lessons, which Morton provided at various locations, including the victims' residences, his own home, and the school where he was employed. The disturbing revelations came to light after a woman contacted police in 2011, alleging that Morton had assaulted her during music lessons in the late 1980s and early 1990s. Following her report, authorities traced other girls from the school who also came forward with similar allegations.

It was revealed that Morton had previously been convicted of indecent assault in 1991, which led to his departure from the teaching profession. The recent case uncovered a pattern of abuse that had remained hidden for years, only coming to light through the bravery of the victims who chose to speak out.

DC Graham Barrick, the investigating officer, praised the women for their courage, stating, “These women must be praised for their bravery in coming forward and speaking to police about what happened to them. I’m sure it was difficult recounting their experiences but without them, we could not have brought Morton to justice.” He also urged others who might have experienced abuse, whether recent or historical, to come forward, assuring them that they will be believed and supported.

John Morton’s case highlights the importance of speaking out against abuse and the ongoing need for vigilance within communities to protect vulnerable individuals from harm.