ROBERT CROMWELL OF LOUGHBOROUGH JAILED FOR SEXUAL ABUSE OF SCHOOLGIRLS IN LEICESTERSHIRE

In a case that has shocked the community of Loughborough and the wider Leicestershire area, Robert Cromwell, a 52-year-old music teacher, was sentenced to four and a half years in prison for the sexual abuse of two young schoolgirls. The crimes took place while Cromwell was employed as a vice principal at a school in Leicester, where he exploited the trust placed in him by his students.

According to court proceedings, Cromwell engaged in inappropriate and sexual conduct with the two victims, both of whom confided in him about personal issues. The first girl, aged 15 at the time, was subjected to a series of inappropriate advances, including kisses and fondling, while she was practicing her clarinet in his classroom. The court heard that Cromwell’s actions escalated over time, with the recorder stating, “It started with a kiss and as you gained her confidence, it went on, you touching her breasts, thighs and body.”

Following her departure from the school, Cromwell’s misconduct continued with a second girl, who was only 14 years old. She approached him to discuss her personal problems, but Cromwell exploited her vulnerability by making her perform oral sex on him. The court was told that Cromwell deliberately chose victims who were particularly vulnerable, grooming each of them to facilitate his abuse.

Recorder David Price emphasized the severity of Cromwell’s breach of trust, stating, “You chose your victims because of their vulnerability. A further aggravating factor is that you groomed each of these girls. Even when a disciplinary warning was issued to you over one of the girls, you continued to abuse your position.”

During the sentencing, it was noted that Cromwell’s family was visibly distressed, crying as he was taken down to the cells. However, Cromwell himself showed no visible emotion. His defense lawyer, Jeanette Williams, highlighted his long marriage, stating, “In over 30 years of marriage, the defendant and his wife have never been apart and she is having to face the prospect of being without him for a considerable amount of time.” She also pointed out the support he received from the community, noting that many people had come to court in his defense.

The case has left a lasting impact on the community, raising questions about safeguarding and the responsibilities of educators in positions of authority. Cromwell’s actions have been condemned, and his imprisonment serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance in protecting vulnerable students from exploitation.