ANDREW BERRY FROM AISLABY NEAR WHITBY SENTENCED FOR SEXUAL OFFENSES AGAINST YOUNG GIRLS IN YORKSHIRE

In a case that has shocked the local community, Andrew Berry, a 35-year-old primary school teacher residing on Main Road in Aislaby, near Whitby, has been sentenced to two years in prison for committing indecent assaults against two young girls. The court proceedings revealed disturbing details about Berry's actions and his relationship with the victims, leading to a comprehensive legal response aimed at protecting the community and ensuring justice.

Berry was found guilty of six separate charges of indecent assault during his trial at York Crown Court last month. The charges included five counts involving a 10-year-old girl and a sixth involving a girl aged nine. The court heard that the assaults took place over a period extending from October 2001 to May of the following year, with one of the incidents occurring in April of the previous year at a youth group where Berry was serving as a helper.

Judge Paul Hoffman, presiding over the case, sentenced Berry to a two-year jail term, emphasizing the risk of further offending. The judge also imposed an extended five-year license period upon Berry's release from prison, a measure designed to monitor his behavior closely. Additionally, Berry was ordered to register as a sex offender, a legal requirement that will remain in effect for a significant period.

During the sentencing, it was noted that Berry would never again be permitted to work with children, a decision reflecting the severity of his crimes and the court's concern for public safety. The families of both victims were present in the courtroom during the proceedings, underscoring the personal impact of Berry's actions.

Testimony during the trial revealed that the mother of the older girl described Berry as a trusted friend who had established a good rapport with her daughter. She expressed her concern over Berry's behavior, stating, "He always had children all round him. They liked him a great deal as he was good fun." The mother also disclosed that Berry had a pet name for her daughter and showed her a significant amount of attention and affection, which she later found inappropriate. She admitted to feeling uncomfortable with Berry's tactile behavior towards her daughter and had asked him to cease such conduct.

Berry's employment history in North Yorkshire dates back to 1996, when he began working as a supply teacher. He secured a permanent position at Stakesby Primary School in Whitby in 1998. However, following the allegations and subsequent conviction, North Yorkshire County Council acted swiftly. A council spokesperson confirmed that Berry was suspended immediately once the allegations surfaced. The spokesperson clarified that the incidents were not connected to any school activities and that both the school and the local education authority cooperated fully with police investigations.

In the wake of the court case, authorities announced that Berry would be resigning from his teaching position with immediate effect, signaling a decisive step to remove him from any role involving children and to uphold the safety and trust of the community.