THOMAS RITZLER REIGATE SOCIAL WORKER SENTENCED FOR SEXUAL RELATIONSHIP WITH 14-YEAR-OLD GIRL IN GUILDFORD

In a disturbing case that has shocked the community of Reigate and the surrounding areas, Thomas Ritzler, a 28-year-old social worker, has been sentenced to prison after engaging in a sexual relationship with a teenage girl. Ritzler, who was employed by Surrey County Council’s children’s complex needs team, was found guilty of exploiting his position of trust and abusing a vulnerable minor.

Ritzler’s misconduct came to light after investigations revealed that he had a sexual relationship with a 14-year-old girl, whom he met in the town of Guildford. The incident was brought before Guildford Crown Court, where Ritzler admitted to the charges on a Friday. He was subsequently sentenced to two years and four months behind bars for his actions.

The court heard that Ritzler, who also engaged in recreational basketball in Priory Park, Reigate, with children, had a pattern of grooming and manipulating the young girl. Prosecutor William Eaglestone detailed how the girl visited Ritzler’s flat on two separate occasions, in June and July of that year, and engaged in sexual activity with him. The girl herself described the encounters as “sex with all the stuff,” indicating a level of familiarity and consent, although the court emphasized her age and vulnerability.

It was revealed that Ritzler had deceived the girl by pretending to be a professional American Football player in his early 20s, creating a false persona to lure her into the relationship. Initially believing the girl was 15, Ritzler was unaware of her true age until she confided in him. Despite this, he continued to pursue her, sneaking her into his flat through the back door for a second sexual encounter. During police interviews, Ritzler claimed he “never intended” to have a sexual relationship with an underage girl and expressed remorse afterward. He also admitted to persuading her to lie to police when questioned about their relationship, instructing her that she should deny everything.

Ritzler’s defense lawyer, Raymond Barnett, expressed his client’s remorse, stating that Ritzler was “deeply ashamed” of his actions. Barnett explained that Ritzler did not have any particular interest in children but felt isolated in the United Kingdom, where he was working away from his home country of Germany. He also mentioned that Ritzler would be returning to Germany after serving his sentence, where he has an adult partner.

Judge Neil Stewart, presiding over the case, emphasized the importance of protecting minors from exploitation. He acknowledged that the girl had consented and cooperated, but highlighted that legislation is designed to shield young people from sexual activity with older individuals who are not in a position to give genuine consent. The judge described the offending as opportunistic rather than predatory, but nonetheless serious.

Ritzler was sentenced to serve two years and four months on each count, with the sentences running concurrently. He was also placed on the sex offenders register for ten years and disqualified from working with children. Additionally, he was subject to a sexual offences prevention order, which prohibits him from living or sleeping in the same property as anyone under 18, allowing minors onto his premises, or loitering in areas where under-18s are known to gather. The 119 days he has already spent in custody will be counted towards his sentence, ensuring he serves the full term for his crimes.