GARETH PARRY INGLEBY BARWICK PAEDOPHILE MUSIC TEACHER JAILED FOR SEXUAL ABUSE IN NEWCASTLE

In a case that has shocked the local community of Ingleby Barwick and the surrounding areas, Gareth Parry, a former music teacher, has been sentenced to six years in prison for heinous sexual offenses committed against a young girl. The conviction follows a detailed trial held in March at Newcastle Crown Court, where the court heard disturbing evidence of Parry’s abusive behavior.

Gareth Parry, aged 38, was found guilty on six counts of sexual activity involving a minor. The court was told that his actions were so vile and repulsive that they caused the young girl to vomit and left her battling feelings of deep despair and suicidal thoughts. The allegations against him emerged after the girl confided in a friend, who then alerted authorities, leading to Parry’s arrest and subsequent trial.

During the sentencing hearing on Friday, Parry appeared via a video link from Durham Prison. Throughout the proceedings, he displayed little emotion and continued to deny the charges. His defense argued that he was a respected figure in the community, having previously held a prominent position as the head of music at Ormesby School in Middlesbrough, after leaving Egglescliffe and Ormesby School. Parry also holds a PhD, which underscores his academic achievements and professional reputation prior to these allegations.

The court heard that Parry’s misconduct began with flirtatious messages exchanged via WhatsApp, which escalated to physical meetings. The victim recounted that Parry bombarded her with messages, kissed her, and then met her in a Stockton park where he engaged in sexual acts. The court was shown evidence of these encounters, which included inappropriate touching of the girl’s intimate areas. The trial revealed that Parry’s actions were not isolated incidents but part of a pattern of predatory behavior.

Throughout the trial, the victim described feeling overwhelmed by shame and confusion. She expressed that the experience had a profound impact on her mental health, leading to suicidal thoughts and panic attacks. Her statement highlighted the devastating effect of Parry’s crimes on her life and her family’s well-being.

Despite his denial, the court found the evidence compelling. Judge Robert Spragg delivered a stern judgment, emphasizing that Parry’s desire to continue communication with the girl indicated a clear sexual attraction. The judge remarked that Parry’s refusal to admit guilt was indicative of his inability to accept responsibility for his actions. Parry was ordered to serve a minimum of half his sentence, reflecting the severity of his offenses.

In mitigation, Parry’s legal team pointed out that he was once highly regarded by colleagues and had a promising career ahead of him. However, the judge made it clear that his professional reputation could no longer shield him from the consequences of his actions. The case has left a lasting scar on the community of Ingleby Barwick, with many residents expressing shock and disappointment over the betrayal of trust by someone they once viewed as a respected figure.