THEODORE HUGHES FROM POTTERS BAR SENTENCED FOR SEXUAL ABUSE IN WESTMINSTER

In a case that has shocked the community of Potters Bar and the surrounding areas, Theodore Hughes, a science teacher with ties to the town, was sentenced to six years in prison for heinous acts of sexual assault committed against five young girls he was entrusted to care for during babysitting sessions.

The investigation into Hughes's actions was led by Detective Sergeant Mary Coller of the central child abuse investigation team. She expressed concern that Hughes's history of abusing children might extend beyond the five victims identified in court. Detective Coller emphasized that Hughes's entire life appeared to revolve around children, raising the possibility that other victims may come forward in the future.

The court proceedings took place at Middlesex Guildhall Crown Court in Westminster, where Hughes, aged 54 and originally from the United States, was found guilty of six counts of indecent assault and one count of rape. The incidents occurred in September of the previous year, during which Hughes was babysitting the young girls. The victims ranged in age from six to eleven years old. It was clarified during the trial that none of the children were students at The American School in St John’s Wood, where Hughes was employed at the time. Following his arrest and the charges being brought against him earlier this year, Hughes was dismissed from his position at the school.

During sentencing, Judge Henry Blacksell QC addressed Hughes directly, acknowledging the gravity of his crimes. The judge remarked, “I accept this is a sad day for you. You, in my judgment, attempted to deceive not only others but yourself about your motives and you put forward an explanation of some misplaced sense of nurture.” The judge further stated that there was little to no mitigation for Hughes’s actions and emphasized that justice must be served. Hughes, visibly emotional and weeping as he was led away, was informed that he would be required to register as a sex offender for the rest of his life.

Margaret Grandy, the associate head of The American School, reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to student safety. She stated, “The safety and welfare of our students is our top priority. It has guided us and will continue to guide us in our decisions during this difficult time. We do not tolerate behaviour by any faculty or staff member that could jeopardize the children in our care.”

The case has left many in Potters Bar and Westminster questioning whether Hughes may have committed similar offenses in the past, given his long-standing involvement with children. Authorities continue to investigate the possibility of additional victims, urging anyone with relevant information to come forward and assist in ensuring justice is fully served.