JOSHUA PLANK FROM BURFORD SENTENCED FOR VOYEURISM AND SEXUAL ABUSE IN OXFORD

In a case that has shocked the local community of Burford and the surrounding areas, Joshua Plank, a 24-year-old teacher, was formally sentenced at Oxford Crown Court for serious allegations of voyeurism and sexual misconduct involving a young boy. The incident, which took place during his brief teaching career, has raised concerns about safeguarding and the oversight of staff working with children.

According to court records, Plank, who was residing in Signet, Burford, began his teaching position at a local school in January 2010. His tenure was marred by disturbing incidents that came to light during the investigation. On February 18, 2010, a Year 11 student was in a classroom, changing clothes after a lesson, when Plank was observed taking photographs of the pupil in a state of undress. This act of voyeurism was reported promptly, leading to Plank's arrest.

Further investigations revealed that there was a prior incident involving Plank and a younger student. The school’s headteacher informed police that in December 2010, a Year Seven pupil had been receiving tuition from Plank. During this session, Plank had read the student a passage from 'Tom Brown’s Schooldays' and then engaged in inappropriate roleplay, during which he bent the child over and smacked him on the back of his legs. Despite the school issuing a caution to Plank, instructing him not to work alone with pupils, no further disciplinary action was taken at that time.

Prosecutor Cathy Olliver outlined the details to the court, emphasizing the gravity of the offences. She highlighted that Plank had admitted to two counts of voyeurism and one charge of engaging in sexual activity with a child. The court heard that these actions were not isolated but part of a pattern of inappropriate conduct.

During the sentencing hearing, Jason Taylor, representing Plank, described his client as a “young man who effectively is a tortured soul, somebody who was desperately struggling with his own sexual identity and the feelings he was experiencing.” Despite this plea, the judge, Anthony King, delivered a firm sentence. Plank was ordered to complete a three-year community order, which includes mandatory attendance at a sex-offender treatment programme. Additionally, he was required to pay £800 in court costs and was mandated to register as a sex offender for five years. The court also imposed a lifelong ban on Plank working with children, reflecting the severity of his misconduct and the need to protect potential future victims.

This case has left many in Burford and the wider community questioning the adequacy of safeguarding measures and the importance of vigilance in monitoring individuals working with vulnerable children.