GLEN SMITH FROM ASHBY BRANDED A PREDATOR FOR SEXUAL OFFENSES AGAINST STUDENTS

In April 2009, Glen Smith, a music teacher from Ashby, was publicly condemned and branded a predator after a series of disturbing revelations about his inappropriate conduct towards young girls. The court heard that Smith, aged 52 and a married father of three, had groomed two female pupils, engaging in manipulative behavior that extended over several years.

One of the victims, a 15-year-old girl, was targeted through a series of text messages in which Smith expressed his desire to cherish and love her, stating, "I want to be able to cherish and love every bit of you." These messages revealed the extent of his grooming tactics, aimed at establishing an emotional connection with the girl. Police investigations uncovered that Smith's home in Oakham Grove, Ashby, contained computers seized twice, both times revealing child pornography, including a total of 1,066 images classified as level one, the least severe category.

During the sentencing at Leicester Crown Court, Judge Michael Pert QC did not hold back in condemning Smith’s actions. He described him as a paedophile and a predator, emphasizing that Smith deliberately sought to groom young girls who were on the verge of discovering their sexuality. The judge pointed out that Smith’s method of seduction was not through physical acts initially but through securing their love and affection over a prolonged period, which constitutes grooming. The judge also criticized Smith’s professional conduct, stating, "As a teacher, you’re a disgrace to that profession and you’ve betrayed the trust parents place in teachers."

Smith’s history of misconduct was further detailed by the prosecution. Pearl Willis, representing the Crown, explained that Smith had previously formed a close relationship with another girl, described as a vulnerable loner. The court heard that they sat together frequently, sometimes sharing hugs, and that during a school social event, she sat outside in Smith’s car. Willis recounted that Smith kissed her on her neck, with multiple pecks, which made her feel flattered but also uncomfortable, prompting her to suggest they leave. The prosecution argued that Smith initiated the touching, and that the friendship had gone too far, leaving the girl feeling she was an easy target.

In 2006, Smith was warned by the school for getting too close to another 14-year-old girl, but he ignored this warning. When her mother discovered a text message from Smith expressing his desire to "cherish and love" her, she filed a complaint with the school. The girl, who had turned 15 by then, later told police that they were in love and discussed a future together. Smith admitted to three counts of sexual activity with this girl, as well as 12 counts of possessing indecent images.

Further police investigations in September 2007 led to the seizure of Smith’s home laptop and computer tower, which contained child pornography. Subsequent searches uncovered two replacement computers with additional indecent images. Despite the large number of images, all were classified as level one, indicating the least severity. Smith was sentenced to a three-year community order with supervision, and he was mandated to attend a sex offender program. Additionally, he was prohibited from working with children or being alone with anyone under 17.

Judge Pert concluded that, despite the heinous nature of Smith’s offenses, the sentencing guidelines dictated that a community disposal was appropriate rather than imprisonment. Defense lawyer Mark Achurch stated that Smith did not set out with the intent to harm but recognized the damage caused by his actions. Achurch also highlighted Smith’s long marriage of 28 years and his three adult children. A spokesperson for Leicestershire County Council confirmed that they would contact relevant regulatory bodies to ensure that Smith’s records reflect his disqualification from working with children, whether paid or unpaid, in the future. The council also noted that they had maintained close contact with the school throughout the police investigation and offered ongoing support and guidance.