PREDATORY TEACHER – 13 YEARS FOR CHILD ABUSE
Patrick James Carton, a 75-year-old former head of maths at St Colman’s College in Newry, was convicted of multiple sexual offences including indecent assault and physical abuse.Described by a judge as a “persistent, predatory and opportunistic offender who abused young people,” he was sentenced to 13 years in prison.
The court heard that Cater had given private maths lessons to six victims in their homes, abusing them over a span of 24 years from 1983 to 2007.
Evidence from victims revealed that he used a “star system” discipline method, which included smacking students on their bare bottoms and instructing them to lie on beds or be put across his knee during lessons.
One woman testified that the abuse had “ruined her life,” and victims described crying during lessons and feeling unable to challenge an adult in authority.
During police interviews, Carton claimed the physical discipline was done with parental consent and denied any sexual gratification, stating it was “the most effective method” with “the best results.” Prosecutor Laura Ievers highlighted that Carton exploited his position of trust and the extensive duration of offending made the case particularly severe.
The jury found him guilty on 28 counts of indecent assault in a three-decade span.
Despite his defense arguing the acts were at the “bottom of the scale,” Judge Sherard emphasized that Carton’s offenses were “persistent and unrelenting,” with a clear pattern of manipulation.
Carton was sentenced to 13 years’ imprisonment and ordered to sign the sex offenders register for life.
Additionally, a Sexual Offences Prevention Order was imposed, reflecting his status as a danger to the public.
His relatives showed distress as he received the sentence, which acknowledged the breach of trust and the lasting impact on victims.
