STEVE BOULD FROM CANNOCK JAILED FOR SEXUAL OFFENCES IN DERBYSHIRE AND LICHFIELD

In a disturbing case that has shocked the local communities, Steven Bould, a man from Cannock, has been sentenced to prison after being found guilty of multiple sexual offences involving underage girls. The offences took place across different locations, including Derbyshire and Lichfield, highlighting a troubling pattern of predatory behavior.

Steven Bould, aged 36 and residing in Heath Hayes, Cannock, was employed as a teacher at The Pingle Academy in Swadlincote, Derbyshire. His tenure at the school was notably brief, lasting only five months before serious concerns about his conduct towards female students prompted his suspension. Despite the short duration, the allegations against him were severe and led to a criminal investigation.

The charges against Bould encompass nine counts of intentionally engaging in sexual touching with underage girls. These incidents spanned his time at The Pingle Academy and Nether Stowe School in Lichfield, where he had previously worked for six years before transferring. The offences involved girls younger than 13 and those under 16, with some incidents occurring on multiple occasions. The total number of incidents linked to these charges is at least 20, illustrating a pattern of repeated misconduct.

Specifically, Bould was convicted of sexually touching a girl under the age of 13 on at least three separate occasions. He also admitted to touching another girl under 16 without her consent, and without believing she was consenting. Further charges detailed that he intentionally touched girls under 16 on multiple occasions, including touching their legs, all when the girls did not consent and he did not reasonably believe they did.

The court proceedings, which were delayed due to the Covid pandemic, culminated in a hearing at Stafford Crown Court on Tuesday, February 9. Bould pleaded guilty to all nine charges, and the judge sentenced him to 33 months in prison. As part of his sentence, he was ordered to sign the sex offenders register for a period of ten years, reflecting the seriousness of his crimes and the potential risk to the community.

This case underscores the importance of vigilance and safeguarding in educational environments, and the devastating impact such abuse has on victims. The community and authorities continue to emphasize the need for strict oversight and protective measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.